A pergola makes a very nice addition to any garden or yard by providing shade and structure to support hanging and climbing plants. If you are handy with tools and construction, you may want a do it yourself pergola design. There are several things you should consider when looking for the right pergola design for your landscaping needs.
The first element of a pergola design is the material you will use to construct it. Wood, vinyl, and aluminum are the most common materials used, and there are pros and cons to each of them. Wood is the most popular because it is cheap, easy to work with, and versatile. Make sure you research what kind of wood you decide to use, because some woods are naturally going to better than others. For example, redwoods such as cedar are great because they resist rotting, decay, and insect damage. Other woods can be treated to become more durable, but be careful that they are not treated with chemicals that could kill climbing plants if you choose to add them to your pergola.
Vinyl and aluminum will last longer than wood and also look more modern and polished. With vinyl, make sure it is UV resistant because it could fade in the sun. An aluminum pergola is a great choice because it is weather resistant, durable, lightweight and still strong. Also, it will not rust and will never be subject to insect and pest damage. One thing to look for when using aluminum is the hardness rating. You will want T-4, T-5, or T-6, withT-6 being the best because it is the hardest and strongest.
Once you have decided what material to use, the next consideration in finding a design is the style. Classic pergolas will have straight lines and a craftsman style. They will look great if you have a traditionally styled home and garden, but you might want to check out some of the other styles available if you like a more modern look. If you like the zen look of a Japanese garden, you can find an Asian-inspired pergola design. If you have a Tuscan or Mediterranean styled home, you can find a pergola that matches that style as well.
There are many options for you to choose from when designing a pergola, including the option to buy a pergola kit. These will come with the building materials and instructions delivered right to your door. This is a good option if you want to save some time. Whatever you decide, remember to have fun and enjoy all the possibilities available as you plan your pergola design.
