Pergolas

Pergolas have a very long history. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all used them. A classical style of pergola is even called Roman. Among other pergola designs are the Cayman, Jasmine, Milani, Palomar, Sonora and Imperial. Recently pergolas have been making a comeback. The garden pergola is springing up in backyards everywhere. Of course, the garden pergola is not the only type you can have. You can build a pergola over your pool, your hot tub, patio area, children’s play area, or along a walkway. A door pergola makes a beautiful entranceway.

Why do people build pergolas? The main practical function of a pergola is to provide shade. Just how much shade a pergola provides depends upon its construction. Some provide a lot of shade; others very little. Pergolas that provide support for climbing plants can be very shady, even if the pergola itself is little more than framework. Pergolas also enhance the appearance of a yard or other property, because they themselves, when well made, are aesthetically beautiful. Whether you have a vinyl, cedar, redwood or aluminum pergola; and whether it is triangular or rectangular, the pergola is going to be an excellent addition to your yard. It adds grace and character to your property, and in so doing reflects something of your personality and style. If you have plans for building a pergola, you are going to have to decide upon the style and the purpose. Perhaps you would like the elegance of a Roman pergola. Or maybe a garden room pergola, with vines and hanging plants is more your style. If the pergola is going over your hot tub, you’ll want something open so you can look up at the stars at night. You’ll also want something open if you are going to be barbequing under your pergola. A pathway pergola always gives a yard a classic look.

You can find everything you need to build your pergola at your local building supply centre. If you are building with wood, poles (as opposed to beans) are very popular right now. The staff at the building supply centre will be able to give you information on how to build a pergola. They will have pergola plans that illustrate pergola design. They might even have pergola kits. If you are buying the materials, the building supply centre might provide you with a free pergola plan. If you purchase a pergola kit, but you aren’t an experienced builder, there are professionals who build decks, pergolas, gazebos and other yard structures, that you can hire to do the job for you.