If you’re looking to create a new living space in your outside area as well as adding instance value to your home, then a pergola has to be your first choice. These simple constructions can be built in less than a week, and provide a gentle shade and a sense of luxury wherever you choose to install one. There are plenty of types of pergola to choose from, with many design decisions to make as you make the ultimate upgrade to your outdoor space.
What Is Your Pergola Purpose?
When you’re planning your pergola project, the big overarching question to start with is why you are building a pergola in the first place. For some people, it’s all about creating some additional living space, turning an unused part of your yard into extra space for dining or entertaining. For others, it’s about making a quiet oasis to survive the long summer months. It’s also possible to use your pergola as a grow space to make a showcase of your climbing plants. Whatever your reason, your pergola purpose should guide your decisions as you choose a pergola for your home.
Key Pergola Decisions
With your pergola purpose in mind, it’s time to make some important choices to narrow down your search for the perfect pergola:
- Freestanding vs attached – pergolas fall into two main groups; freestanding and attached. Freestanding pergolas can go anywhere in your yard and can be built on top of any surface. They are more expensive as the whole structure has to be weight bearing, and you’ll also have to pay for whatever approach you have to anchor them to the ground. Attached pergolas attach to your home and act as an extension of your house. They tend to be cheaper as you don’t need the full set of posts to support the pergola, but you’ll be limited to the space directly outside your home.
- Aluminum vs wood – the material you choose for your pergola project is largely a question of personal aesthetics. Aluminum pergolas give a sleek, modern feel to your new outdoor space and also require much less in the way of annual maintenance. On the other hand, wooden pergolas have a more classical look, especially when paired with climbing plants, but you’ll need to treat them to keep them safe from Calgary winters and bugs.
- Lattice structure – finally, you’ll need to think about the shape of your lattice as part of your pergola purpose. If the goal is to create shade, you’re going to want a tighter lattice pattern, while if you’re looking for somewhere open and breezy to enjoy the sunshine, you’ll want to find a wider latticed design.
With all the choices and options available to you, it makes sense to come and talk to our experts here at Desert Sun Patios. They have decades of experience in designing pergola projects and will be able to bring your pergola dreams to reality.
