A Pergola really changes the look and feel of the deck. Photo Courtesy: Gord Webster
There are several ways to enhance or improve your home and one of the most beautiful and versatile ways is by adding a pergola or gazebo to your home. This structure can give your home an elegant look while also giving you more space to entertain or to simply relax and enjoy the outdoors. Adding a pergola to your home can also increase the value of your home, which is great for your home’s sell-ability score. To make sure that you have the perfect pergola for your home, you need to consider a number of factors that I will share with you below:
1. The space
The space you have in your backyard will determine the type of pergola you can build. If you have a large backyard, your choices are endless. You can choose any design that appeals to you depending on the room you want. You can build a pergola that is attached to the house or you can have one built in the middle of the yard.
The shape and size of the structure is determined by the space. You can build a large pergola where you can entertain a number of guests. You can also decide to build a small and cozy area where you can have quiet intimate moments.
2. The plan
A beautiful custom Pergola – Photo Courtesy: Gregory Garnich
You should select a plan that reflects the style of your home. If you have a modern home, a simple design is more appropriate. Country homes or traditional homes that are in idyllic settings can have ornate pergolas that have intricate designs. Choose a plan that enhances the overall look of your home in order to create harmony. You can modify existing plans to get the look that you want for your home. Choosing an attached or freestanding pergola is an important decision that is based on the space available and your design requirements.
3. Local building codes
Before you build any structure, you need to find out the local building regulations. If you are using a certified local contractor, you can get all the information you need from them. The regulations in place will determine the type of structure you can build. It is important to follow all the regulations for details such as size, maximum height, type of cover and other special requirements.
4. Materials
Choosing materials is a very important consideration when building your pergola. It is always advisable to buy good quality and durable materials. You also need to determine the best materials for your design needs. Timber is the most popular material for building pergolas and there are many types of timber to choose from. You can choose to have the wood stained or painted, but most people prefer the natural color of wood that will blend in well with nature.
5. Choosing a contractor
For a beautiful and well-finished pergola, you will need professional help. Choosing a contractor is very important, as it will determine the final look of your structure. Carry out research to find professionals who offer quality services. Make sure that the contractor understands your plans. A good contractor should be able to offer you advice on the best structure for your home. The professionals will often charge different fees for their services and you can find one who is affordable depending on your needs.
6. Your budget
When planning to build a pergola in your home, you have to determine your budget. The amount of money you have to work with will determine the materials you can buy and the scope of your project. Fortunately, there are a number of affordable materials for those with a limited budget. You can also decide to buy building kits that are readily available and are easy to install. Well, when buying construction materials, remember to choose materials that are weather resistant. Proper planning will help you to work within your budget and you can shop online for affordable materials.
As you can see, building a pergola does not have to be a complicated project. Once you determine what your requirements are and the location for the structure, you can have it set up in a few days – easily creating an ideal space that is functional and attractive. The Internet is a good place to find pergola ideas and you can easily find a design that appeals to you. Start today, folks!
Kristein Joffer is an avid outdoor living and entertainment blogger. She recommends building a pergola to help bring the backyard landscaping to life.
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