Complete pergola buying guide

If you're not sure what a pergola is, you're not alone. In fact, most people think that a pergola and a gazebo or trellis are the same structure, when in reality they are very different. If you need financing for your pergola, the blog my spare change should help. Pergolas come in many shapes and sizes, and can be a great addition to your home and its landscaping. But as with any purchase for your home, you need to know all the facts before making your decision.

Pergola types and styles

Your home is unique. This will help you choose a pergola for your home, as there are many shapes and styles, such as :

Freestanding pergolas

These pergolas are independent of your home, usually near your pool or a garden. A freestanding pergola can also be used to create many types of unique living spaces in a yard.

Attaché

This pergola attaches directly to your wall and is often used to cover terraces or patios. Attached pergolas are popular with homeowners who want their outdoor living space to be simply an extension of the interior of the house.

Arch

This pergola will give your home a very elegant look. Unlike some flat-roofed pergolas, an arched pergola adds elegance and charm to its surroundings.

Louvered pergolas

A pergola that can be opened and closed for more or less sunlight, louvered pergolas can be manual or automatic. Instead of using traditional slats, louvers take the place of rafters.

Awning

This pergola will be fixed to a wall, won't use support posts or columns, and can be installed over windows or doors for a pleasant look and more shade. Like many people, you can add climbing plants that run the length of your pergola for extra shade and a unique look.

Do I need a permit to build a pergola?

Installing a pergola may or may not require a permit, depending on where you live. Always check your local city and county regulations, and also consult your homeowners' association for additional guidelines regarding the installation of outdoor structures, if any.

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Where can pergolas be installed?

Modern pergolas can be installed almost anywhere. Many people enjoy having such a structure over a terrace or patio, as it can transform the outdoor space into an extension of the home's interior. Chairs, tables, a grill and other elements can be added to create a real living space.

Pergolas are also ideal for shading a pool, Jacuzzi or spa. For added privacy, you can also add privacy screens and patio covers, making them a low-maintenance option that creates even more beauty.

Last but not least, pergolas are always a popular choice for gardens or walkways that deserve to be enhanced. Featuring magnificent architectural elements, they can be embellished with climbers or colorful plants to set them off to their best advantage.

How to choose the right pergola for your outdoor space?
When buying a pergola, consider the following points.

Choose your material

Wood is the most commonly used material for building pergolas. When choosing materials, take into account your region's climate, any insects that may pose a problem, the level of maintenance required for your pergola, your project budget and the overall cost of building a pergola.

Knowing the frost level

Know the frost depth in your area, i.e. the level at which the ground freezes. This is crucial, as the support beams must be installed below this level. If they're not, they'll crack and be displaced from their holes, ruining your pergola.

Style and shape

Square and rectangular pergolas are the most versatile. However, you can also choose hexagonal or circular pergola shapes, depending on your needs and preferences.

Blanket and shade

Think about the coverage and shade you want from your pergola. Panels offer coverage you can easily control, while a thatched or aluminum roof will do the trick if you know you still want full coverage.

Are hurricanes a factor?

Always determine whether you need a hurricane-resistant pergola for your home. If so, a metal pergola may be the best solution for your home. Capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions, it can also be simply dismantled before a storm if necessary.

Can installing a pergola be a DIY project?

Yes, you can build your pergola from scratch, or make things easier for yourself by opting for a prefabricated pergola kit. If you're not comfortable with this type of project, call in a professional builder to bring your pergola to life.