A pergola is the perfect addition to any backyard. It can provide shade on hot days, and can be a great place to relax or entertain guests. If you’re thinking about adding a pergola to your backyard, you’ll want to decide on the best materials and style for your needs. Keep reading to learn the benefits of having a pergola and some tips for choosing the right one for your yard!
What is a pergola?
A pergola is a freestanding structure that is usually embedded within the landscape, or can be freestanding next to your home. Pergolas make a great patio or outdoor entertainment space because they generally have open sides and either a slatted or solid roof. They can also cover pathways or define walkways in your yard.
Pergolas are a popular choice in Northern Nevada because they offer some shade and protection without needing a solid structure. You’ll be able to relax in the cool shade of your pergola and enjoy the outdoors without worrying about getting too much sun. If your home has a view, the open sides of your pergola won’t block the scenery, making them a perfect choice for outdoor entertaining!
The main downside to having a pergola is that they don’t provide complete protection from the elements, so you’ll still need to add a patio cover or umbrella if you want to stay dry during a storm.
What type of material should I choose?
When it comes to choosing a pergola, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, decide what material you want your pergola to be made out of. The most popular types of material used to build pergolas are wood, metal, or vinyl. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you.
Wood Pergolas: A wood pergola can be a great addition to your backyard because it’s an affordable option that can be easily customized to match your home. The downside of a wood pergola is that it requires occasional maintenance (like staining and weather-proofing) and you’ll have to monitor for termites and other types of damage that can happen to natural wood structures.
Metal Pergolas: Metal pergolas are a great choice if you’re looking for something that’s low-maintenance. This is a very durable option that can withstand severe weather conditions like the heat, wind, and snow that we experience in Northern Nevada. The largest downside to metal pergolas is that they can be less customizable and more expensive to build than wood structures.
Vinyl Pergolas: Vinyl pergolas are a great choice if you want a low-maintenance, affordable option for your backyard. Vinyl can be customized to the look you desire and is often cheaper than wood or metal. The maintenance and upkeep needed are less than wood structures, but vinyl pergolas can fade over time and are not as durable as metal pergolas.
What size, shape and style options are available?
Once you’ve decided on the material that makes the most sense for your backyard, the next step is to choose the size and shape of your pergola.
The size of your pergola is totally customizable. The best choice for your yard will be determined by the amount of space you want covered and the shape of your yard. If you are having a hard time deciding on the correct size, DRC Landscaping can help you design the right pergola for the dimensions of your yard and your specific entertaining needs. If you’re planning on using your pergola for entertaining, you’ll need to make sure it’s large enough to comfortably accommodate your guests.
When it comes to shape, there are several options available. The most popular choice is rectangular, but you can also choose from square, octagonal, and hexagonal. The best shape for you will depend on the size of your yard, the shape of your fence line or patio, and your ideal location.
Regarding the location of your pergola, we recommend choosing a spot that is not shaded by trees or other structures. Pergolas are often placed over patios, next to your home, or in an area of your yard designated for entertaining.
Once you’ve decided on the size and shape of your pergola, it’s time to choose the style. The most popular styles are traditional, modern, and contemporary. You should choose a style that complements the overall look of your home.
A traditional pergola is a great choice if you’re looking for something classic. It features simple, clean lines and it’s usually made out of wood.
A modern pergola is a great choice if you want something that’s stylish and contemporary. It often features sharp, angular lines and it can be made out of any material.
A contemporary pergola is a great choice if you’re looking for something that’s unique and stylish. It can be made out of any material and it often features curved lines.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a pergola that’s both stylish and functional, you can’t go wrong with a retractable pergola. Retractable pergolas have a canopy that can be opened or closed, depending on the weather. This makes them perfect for providing shade on hot days or protection from the rain.
Installing a Pergola
Once you have all of these factors in mind, you’re ready to start shopping for the perfect pergola for your backyard. No matter what style of pergola you choose, it’s important to make sure it’s installed properly. To ensure that your pergola is installed properly and designed specifically for your yard, we recommend hiring a professional to help.
If you are in Northern Nevada, we’d love to help you decide on the perfect pergola for your yard and rest easy knowing that it was installed professionally so you can sit back and enjoy! Contact us today to get started!
