Creating a paradise away from the city

Pergolas are an attractive addition to your outdoor space. Featuring cross rafters with no side walls, pergolas provide an expansive, airy way to enjoy more time outdoors. Of course, you get to enjoy protection from direct sunlight as well as the elements.

Although many people are conversant with a patio, a pergola is probably less well known. In simpler and contemporary terms, a pergola comprises of four freestanding posts or columns assisting an open-design roof, typically created from a chain of crossbeams. Similar to decks, homeowners can also install a pergola to the side of the home.

Choose Where to Construct a Pergola

Prior to putting up a pergola, homeowners should assess the landscape on their properties and evaluate their needs. If you are planning to build usable outdoor space detached from the home, pergolas fit the idea. Nevertheless, make sure the parcel of land you want to put up the awning is flat enough. If you have a hilly terrain, consider either a freestanding or attached patio, which can be flattened.

One of the main advantages of a pergola is that it provides shade. So, if your yard or garden does not benefit from considerable shade, consider building a pergola. Likewise, a pergola fixed to the side of the home and shaded with durable fabric can provide shelter against heat and act as a focal point in your garden or backyard.

Unless you intend to build a platform underneath a pergola, understand that whatever you place underneath it will be resting directly on the ground. In that case, shop for yard furniture that will not rust from moisture or nudge into the ground.

Decide on a Customised or Ready-Made Pergola

When choosing a pergola for your outdoor space, you will face the tricky question of whether to go for a customised pergola built on site or a standard, ready-made pergola which only needs installation. If budget is an issue, a ready-made pergola makes a logical option. Although they come in a wide range of sizes, designs, materials and colours, they might afford you a unique look that blends in nicely with your garden space. In contrast, customised pergolas offer uniqueness although they are a bit more expensive.  

If you are already putting up a patio, why not install a pergola above it? While adding to the total budget of your project, you will enjoy the best of both domains: a spacious area to enjoy nature, with the design and sun-shielding advantages of a dramatic roof.