Garden pergolas are visually powerful, freestanding structures that can serve as central pieces for gardens, or they can be simple overhead structures that provide shade for decks, patios, or courtyards on hot, sunny days. These beautiful garden features, which are usually more substantial that arbors, can also serve a similar function by providing support for climbing plants like roses. They may even support certain vegetable and fruit plants that require external support. As well support for flora, they may also serve to block unappealing views when trellises are attached to their sides, thus creating a tunnel affect.
In addition to blocking what homeowners would rather not see, they can also frame views that are particularly captivating. In addition, they may also connect various areas within gardens or create outdoor rooms by dividing yards. Or they may be a garden features that serve as a visual anchors for landscape designs.
Traditionally, pergolas are built with posts supporting a framework of overheard rafters and beams. The size and spacing of those overhead boards will determine the shade provided by the structure before any plants are added. Because these structures can be top-heavy, they must be built very sturdily. Like decks, they are exposed to year-round weather, so the materials used to build them are normally naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, or treated lumber. Although these garden features are usually constructed of wood, metal, vinyl, and other alternatives can also be used.
Like arbors and trellises, creating one of these structures can be a do-it-yourself project. However, unlike many other home and garden improvement projects, there are fewer kits available. In addition, you may be required to obtain a permit depending on the local building department codes.
If you do not have the time or inclination to do it yourself, we can design and build one of these features that will perfectly enhance your outdoor living space.
From Garden Pergolas to Garden Trellises, Arbors, and Pergolas