Author: Betty Lee

Pergolas add a welcoming, garden-like feel to outdoor spaces. They can also provide shade, shelter from the elements, and support for plants. Many homeowners choose to build a pergola with roof in order to enjoy their backyard garden at any time of day or year. These roofs can be made from a wide range of materials, including wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific needs of the space.

One of the biggest changes to traditional pergola design in recent years has been the addition of louvered roofs. These are usually powder-coated aluminum slats that can be opened or closed to adjust the amount of sunlight and shade the structure receives. The slats can even be closed completely to offer protection from rain.

Another option is to cover a pergola with a solid roof, rather than the louvered versions. This can create a more enclosed environment that is perfect for dining or relaxing. Some of these roofs can be glazed with polycarbonate, a durable material that can be colored to match the pergola’s frame. This is a great option for those who want a more consistent look and level of coverage without the hassle of having to maintain and clean wooden slats regularly.

A solid roof can be built out of a variety of materials, but cedar is a common choice. This is because it pairs well with the natural surroundings and is naturally rot-resistant. It also requires minimal maintenance to keep it looking great over the years. Other options for a solid roof include fiberglass, aluminum, and cellular PVC (cPVC). Each of these has its own set of benefits, but each offers a durable and long-lasting solution for those who want to upgrade their patio or backyard space.

The roof can be finished with a variety of colors, either through anodizing, liquid paint, or powder coating, making it easy to find the perfect aesthetic for any space. The roof can also be finished with a high-pressure laminate to protect the surface from damage.

For those who are interested in a more natural, botanical-inspired look, there is always the option to grow vines or other plants on their pergola. This can be an attractive and cost-effective way to get some extra shade, though it is important to remember that this will require regular maintenance in order to keep the plant healthy and prevent it from overtaking the structure. Some plants that are often used for pergolas with vines include roses, bougainvillea, clematis, and virginia creeper.

A pergola with a roof can be an excellent addition to any garden or outdoor living space. By choosing the right structure, materials, and accessories, it is possible to make this structure an integral part of the landscape and a focal point for entertaining and relaxing. By keeping up with the latest innovations in pergola design, homeowners can be sure to get the most out of their new backyard retreat.

Whether you’re looking to add more shade to an existing pergola or create a completely new outdoor living space, adding a canopy is an easy way to add a touch of elegance and functionality. A canopy is available in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns that can complement your home’s architecture, landscaping, and overall outdoor decor. It can also offer protection from sun, rain, and harsh weather conditions.

A Pergola Canopy

A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of parallel colonnades topped with an open roof of rafters and beams. Generally, a pergola is built from wood or metal, but it can be made from virtually any material. The main benefit of a pergola is that it provides structure and definition to an otherwise open area. It can help keep guests and family members cool by providing shade and reducing sunlight penetration, and it can increase the visual appeal of any backyard or garden.

To maximize the use of your backyard or patio, consider installing a pergola with a retractable canopy. These canopies provide flexible shade and weather protection, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space regardless of the season or weather conditions. Depending on your preferences and needs, you can either extend the canopy to create a protected seating or dining area or retract it to let sunlight flood in.

Retractable canopies are designed to complement any style of pergola, offering shade and protection that accentuates your outdoor environment. They are available in a variety of fabric and color options, with some even featuring UV protection. Many canopies are constructed from aluminum, which is highly durable and resistant to rust and corrosion.

Some canopies are equipped with motorized operation, enabling you to control the amount of shade or sunlight they provide with a simple push of a button. This convenient feature is especially helpful for people with limited mobility and makes it easier to adjust the canopy according to changing weather conditions.

There are several things to consider when choosing a pergola canopy, including installation and maintenance requirements. Some canopies are DIY-friendly and come with straightforward installation instructions, while others may require professional installation due to structural considerations or electrical components. Additionally, some canopies require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in top condition.

A pergola with a canopy is an excellent addition to any backyard or patio, providing an inviting and relaxing atmosphere for entertaining and spending time with friends and family. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that this beautiful and versatile structure is gaining popularity in residential and commercial applications around the world. By assessing your needs, choosing the right fabric and color, evaluating design options, and considering installation and maintenance requirements, you can find the perfect pergola canopy for your home.

A pergola is a great addition to your home, transforming any outdoor space into a comfortable and functional area that offers shade and visual interest. However, it’s important to consider the size of your pergola before you build one, as the right dimensions can make or break the success of your project. In this article, we’ll discuss why size matters and how you can customize your pergola with the right materials to create the perfect space for dining, lounging, or decorating.

Choosing the correct lumber size for your pergola is crucial. Using the proper lumber will ensure your structure is strong and durable, allowing it to withstand years of weathering and other forces. The most common choice is 4×4 lumber, which is relatively inexpensive and works well for most projects. However, for larger structures, especially those that will be used frequently, 6×6 lumber is a better option as it provides greater strength and durability.

If you’re planning to install a freestanding pergola, it’s recommended to keep the overall length and width to a minimum of 12×16 feet. This will maintain proportion and allow for adequate movement around the structure while still providing plenty of shade. If you’re installing your pergola over a deck, pool, or other patio, a larger size may be appropriate for added privacy and style.

When considering the height of your pergola, it’s best to aim for a maximum of 2.2 meters (about 7.2 feet). This will provide sufficient head clearance for most people and offer plenty of shade. However, it’s also possible to have your pergola custom built at a different height to accommodate taller individuals or to add extra headroom for lighting, hanging plants, and other decorations.

The rafters of your pergola are the structural beams that hold the roof and give it its unique appearance. They’re available in a range of dimensions, from 2 inches into 6 inches to 1.5 inches into 7.25 inches. Typically, the longer the rafters, the more shade your pergola will provide. It’s important to properly align rafter dimensions with the structure to avoid gaps and ensure it’s perfectly stable.

Choosing the perfect location for your pergola is also vital. While a pergola can be placed virtually anywhere, it’s best to avoid placing it in areas that experience high winds or heavy rainfall. This will prevent damage to the roof and other features of your pergola. Additionally, if you live in a town with strict building codes, check with local authorities to make sure your pergola meets all applicable requirements. Otherwise, you could face a fine or have to tear down your beautiful new space.

Decks are a great addition to any home and can be used for relaxing or entertaining guests. They can be built on the ground, in the garden, or on a roof. Decks are also a great way to extend the living space of a house. The design and layout of a deck can vary depending on the type of material chosen for its construction. The most common types of materials for a deck are wood, composite, or PVC.

When selecting a deck builder near you, it’s important to find one that is licensed and insured. This will ensure that the company has the necessary credentials to provide high-quality work and will be covered in case of any unforeseen incidents during construction. The contractor should also offer a written estimate, which can help reduce the likelihood of unexpected charges. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask about the builder’s experience with different types of decks and what their average cost is.

A deck builder is a construction specialist that can help homeowners create functional and visually appealing outdoor living spaces. The professional can help with the design and building process, as well as assist with other exterior enhancements like porches, patios, pergolas, and sheds. They can also help with retaining wall construction and landscaping. Some deck builders also offer custom outdoor kitchens and other upgrades.

Some of the top deck builders in the country include Decks By Lee, Stump’s Quality Decks and Porches, and Keystone Custom Decks. These companies are committed to offering high-quality craftsmanship and superior customer service. They use durable and beautiful materials to create stunning outdoor living spaces. They can also provide design consultations to help homeowners tailor their decks to their specific needs and tastes.

Whether you are looking for an outdoor dining area, a hot tub, or a play area, a deck is a great addition to your home. It can increase your property value and add extra space for entertaining. However, constructing a deck is not an easy task and requires the expertise of a skilled deck builder. A reputable deck builder can handle the entire process from start to finish, including getting all the necessary permits and adhering to local building codes.

A Trex deck is a unique outdoor living space that can enhance your home’s curb appeal. A professional can construct a custom Trex deck for you using high-quality composite and wood products. They can also install low-voltage lighting and screen porches. A New York City-based decking company called Gabi’s Decks has been in business since 2004 and provides a free design consultation. Their services also include deck repair and staining. They use a variety of wood species, including cedar and mahogany. They can even build a deck around an existing swimming pool or hot tub.

A pergola is a classic feature that adds both beauty and function to any Deck. They’re ideal for creating a shaded area that’s perfect for relaxing, eating outdoors or entertaining. Whether you have a large backyard or just a small space to work with, there are plenty of ways to add a pergola to your deck.

The first step is to decide what size and style of pergola you want. A medium-size pergola is ideal for smaller spaces, leaving you enough room for a stylish outdoor sofa set and coffee table, but without dominating the deck. Larger pergolas are also great for larger spaces, but it’s important not to go too top-heavy with the roof. You want to ensure that the structure stays stable, and this can be achieved by using light wood lattice or even fabric panels rather than a heavy wooden or canvas cover.

Once you’ve decided on the size of your pergola, it’s time to start planning what materials you’ll need. If you’re building your pergola from scratch, it’s best to use treated softwood as this will be both durable and aesthetically pleasing. You’ll also need a selection of timber posts, beams and rafters to create the structure. Be sure to buy hardware that is rot-resistant, rust-resistant and strong against harsh weather conditions. As the fasteners will be a visible part of your design, you should aim to choose thick galvanized steel ones with an extra coating.

If you’re buying a pre-made pergola kit, the material will already be planned out for you, so you can just focus on getting it installed. Check with your local HOA or city to see if you’ll need a permit before beginning the project. If you do, make sure to submit the proper documentation before starting work.

Before you begin constructing, it’s worth checking to make sure your deck can support the weight of the pergola. You should also take this opportunity to make any repairs or improvements as needed. Once you’re happy with the foundation, you can move on to putting in the actual structure.

A freestanding pergola stands on four posts independently of any other structures, whereas an attached one is built fixed to your Deck or home. The latter type can be a great option for creating a transition effect between your indoor and outdoor living areas, especially if it’s situated close to the back door.

There are many different styles of pergola to choose from, and the one that’s right for you will depend on your needs, budget and climatic conditions. For example, a traditional wooden pergola can be stained or painted to suit any deck design, while metal pergolas tend to look more modern and minimalist. If you’re looking for a more elegant and timeless option, opt for a stone pergola. These are often more expensive than other types of pergola, but they’re extremely long-lasting and require minimal maintenance.

A deck contractor is a professional who designs and builds decks that suit home styles, landscapes, and lifestyles. He or she will survey the property and advise you on size, height, construction materials, staining, and sealing options. They can also provide insight into additional components, including outdoor kitchens, fire pits, walkways and arbors. They will recommend a layout and construction technique that is suited for the climate and other regional factors, as well as help you obtain permits and inspections.

You can hire a deck contractor by asking questions and comparing quotes. Ask how long the company has been in business, what types of projects they have completed, and what certifications they hold. Also, ask if they are members of any trade associations and whether their contractors are licensed and insured. If you do not feel comfortable with the answers to these questions, consider hiring someone else.

If your deck is showing signs of damage, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional right away. These repairs can be simple or complex, depending on the severity of the problem. For example, if you notice a crack or chip in the decking, it may be easy to repair with a power washer and filler. However, if the problem is more severe, it may require sanding and painting. A professional will also be able to advise you on whether the deck should be replaced or refurbished.

In addition to installing decks, this company specializes in custom railing installation and awnings. Its technicians also offer various home improvement services, such as painting, remodeling, and drywall repair. Its crews can also install teak wood cabinets, build a backyard bar, and construct trellises. Cortese Construction Services has been serving the Buffalo area since 1951.

This contracting service provides custom deck building and restoration in the New York City area. Its team of professionals can design and build unique decks for any property. Its contractors are skilled in a variety of materials, including composite, wood, and PVC. They can also build porches and pergolas. They can also handle other indoor and outdoor projects, such as refinishing floors and ceilings, landscaping, and installing windows and doors.

The staff at FineDecks is available to build custom decks for homeowners in the New York City area. This company has been in business for over 20 years and uses a variety of materials, including ipe wood, mahogany, and pressure-treated wood. Its clients include residential and commercial properties. They can also assist with front porches and sunrooms, as well as kitchen and bathroom renovations.

The owners of this New York City-based company specialize in custom wood and composite decks, screened in porches, and pergolas. Its crews can also construct outdoor fireplaces, screen rooms, and garden paths. They can also handle interior and exterior renovations, such as refinishing and repairing hardwood floors. They use a wide range of materials, such as mahogany, redwood, and cedar. They can even make stairs out of recycled wood.

When it comes to designing outdoor living spaces, pergolas are an effective way to add style and shade to any space. These versatile structures are a great choice for patios, gardens, or as a beautiful accent to a walkway. They can also provide a cozy spot for relaxing and unwinding after a long day.

A pergola is a shade structure that features evenly spaced columns or posts extending from a flat, arched roof. They are traditionally made from wood, but modern versions are also available in a variety of other materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, and cellular PVC (cPVC). They come in both freestanding models and attached options that can be connected to walls or other structures in your garden or yard.

There are many different styles of pergolas to choose from, including those with a curved design that can add a unique ambiance to any landscape. You can even find them with built-in benches and tables to create a cozy seating area that offers a respite from the sun’s harsh rays.

In order to choose the right pergola for your patio, it’s important to consider the size of the area and how you intend to use it. For example, if you plan to entertain guests and host gatherings on your patio, it’s important to get a large enough pergola that can accommodate everyone comfortably. If you are just looking for a small shaded area to relax in, then a smaller, less obtrusive model would be more suitable.

It’s also important to consider the climate where you live, as well as your personal preferences when choosing a pergola. For example, if you are concerned about maintenance, then you may want to choose a wood type that doesn’t require a lot of upkeep, like pressure-treated pine. This type of wood is smooth sawn and has been treated with chemicals to make it resistant to severe weather, rot, and insects. It arrives with a green appearance, but will eventually turn to a golden color if you water-seal it or stain it after a few months of drying time.

Another consideration when choosing a pergola is the amount of light that you’d like to filter through. Some pergolas feature a latticework that allows vines to grow up the sides, while others have a more solid covering that provides complete shade. To determine the best option for your backyard, it’s a good idea to visit a showroom to see some of the options that are available to you.

Once you’ve decided on the perfect pergola for your patio, the next step is to schedule a professional installation. The duration of this process will depend on the complexity of your customization options and any other custom features that you’ve selected. However, your dedicated project manager will keep you updated throughout the process to ensure that your pergola is installed to your satisfaction in a timely manner.

A pergola can make a stunning addition to your backyard. Whether you’re looking to add shade over your outdoor kitchen, dining area or pool, or simply want a great spot for reading or relaxing, you can create the perfect atmosphere with a well-designed pergola. The best part is that with pre-cut kits available, building a pergola doesn’t have to be a big project. In fact, workshop members have used pergolas to transform their outdoor areas in a variety of ways. Here’s some inspiration for your next backyard project:

First, decide if you would like your pergola to be attached to your home or freestanding. Once you’ve decided on this, you will need to measure your space to determine which size pergola kit you will need. Generally, the most popular pergola kit sizes are 8×8 up to 20×20. This size includes the pergola posts, double 2×8 beams and rafters. The rafters are not notched and configured in either 3 sets of 2 or 4 sets of 2. The standard size kits also include 8 top slats.

The next decision to make is how tall you want your pergola to be. The rafter length will determine this, and is calculated by measuring the distance between the points where you’d like the outside edges of your posts to land. Then, you will need to add 1’6” to this measurement for the overhang. This is called the rafter length, and will be the first number in the size pergola kit you choose.

Once you’ve determined the overall size of your pergola, you will need to select the wood type. Pressure-treated pine is a common choice for pergolas because it’s strong, rot resistant and works well in harsh climates. However, there are other options as well. Cedar, for example, is an attractive wood with a lovely grain that holds up to severe weather and requires less maintenance than Pine.

You will also need to decide whether you’d like a flat or sloped roof. A flat roof is simpler to install but won’t provide as much coverage. A sloped roof is more challenging to build, but will provide greater coverage and offer a more dramatic aesthetic.

Once all of these decisions have been made, you’re ready to order your pergola kit! Once you’ve ordered your kit, it will be delivered to your site and installed by a Bunnings team member. They will ensure the proper installation of your new pergola and walk you through any additional steps that may be necessary.

With a little guidance from the experts at Bunnings, you can build the pergola of your dreams. Be sure to check out the extensive series of pergola how-to videos that cover everything from building the frame and constructing the roof. Once your pergola is finished, you’ll have the perfect place to entertain family and friends and enjoy the outdoors year-round.

A year on from Zepp Health (now Huami) launching its first rugged smartwatch, the Amazfit T-Rex, a follow up – the trex pro – offers subtle improvements on the original while staying true to the rough and ready traits that set this series apart.

The most notable change is that this model – which still costs just $180 – adds heart rate monitoring with the help of Zepp Health’s BioTracker 2 optical sensor (also found on the brand’s newer smartwatches). You also get a barometric altimeter, which will alert you to when your ascent or descent gets more challenging.

You still don’t get support for third party apps and there are limited smartphone features like the ability to see and respond to messages or calls unless you opt to connect it to your phone via Bluetooth. As a GPS sports watch though it’s pretty much top of the class with a capable spec sheet and a wide range of fitness and tracking metrics.

One of the reasons for this is the aforementioned 1.3in circular AMOLED display that’s been reworked to be more responsive. It’s bright, lucid and a pleasure to use on the move. Small swipes from your watch face will bring up the quick settings panel where you can adjust screen brightness, engage power-saving and do not disturb modes as well as a choice of screensavers and ‘always-on’ displays.

There’s also a handful of pre-loaded watch faces that should cover most tastes while the standard ones can be customized to your liking. There’s a decent selection of workout types as well, and you can even customise the watch to alert you to incoming phone notifications.

During testing the T-Rex pro’s heart rate monitor did a pretty good job of picking up on our exertion and giving a pretty accurate reading, but it’s not going to compete with chest strapped models. That said, we tested the watch’s sleep tracking and it performed very well, giving similar lengths of deep, light and REM sleep.

The trex pro is waterproof to 10ATM and has been certified to function in temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Celsius up to +70. It’s also shockproof and can withstand dropping from a height of two metres.

The trex pro is also built to be durable and has been subjected to 15 MIL-STD-810G tests, so you can be sure it’ll stand up to the toughest of wear and tear. That includes a hefty 5000mAh battery that’s advertised to last for 18 days of use. The accompanying magnetic USB charger takes surprisingly little time to replenish it, taking past 50% in 30 minutes.

Steel deck is a steel sheeting that provides strength and support for floors and roofs of many commercial buildings. It is used to eliminate the need for shoring concrete until it cures and allows for more structural flexibility during construction. There are several different types of metal roof and floor decking with unique characteristics that make them more suitable for specific applications. The type of metal deck that is required for a particular job can be determined by the shape and rib profile of the sheet, as well as the load requirements of the structure.

Metal deck is made by cold forming structural grade steel coils into a pattern of flutes and ribs. The profile of the ribs and their heights are designed to optimize the strength-to-weight ratio for each application. The various shapes and profiles allow engineers to construct structures that can withstand different weights, spans and loads. The thickness of the metal deck is also important, as it determines how heavy or light it can be.

For example, some metal decking has shear studs that create a composite action with the concrete slab and improve fire performance and crack control. Other designs use a mesh grid reinforcement, which helps with lateral stability and provides a more flexible slab surface for services. These features help increase the life cycle of the building while allowing for future modifications or relocations without the need to destroy or replace concrete.

The benefits of using steel deck during floor construction include its lightweight design and accelerated construction time. This means that the project can move forward faster, which in turn saves money on labour costs. Steel deck also provides better tensile strength than concrete, so it can withstand higher loads and requires less structural steel support. Additionally, it is easier to lay than concrete, which reduces the amount of manual labor that is needed for installation.

Lastly, steel deck has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than other structural materials, which allows for lower material and freight costs. In addition, it is available in a wide range of sizes and is easily cut to fit a variety of different applications. The versatility of steel deck makes it a highly effective choice for both temporary and permanent floors and roofs.

Union Galvasteel offers a full range of steel decking from leading manufacturers like Kingspan Multideck. This metal flooring solution includes five different profiles with spans of up to 6 meters and fire ratings up to 4 hours. For additional protection, this steel floor and roof deck can be ordered with a Magnelis coating, which provides superior corrosion resistance in aggressive environments. To learn more about the benefits of using metal deck on your next construction project, contact us today. We can discuss your specific requirements and recommend the best option for your project. Our team of experts is here to answer any questions you may have about our products or services. We look forward to working with you!