Author: Betty Lee

A pergola corner is a lovely addition to any garden, whether it’s positioned at the entrance, as a focal point or simply used as a place for relaxing and enjoying the sun. Providing shade and interest, it can help to define an outdoor living area and creates the perfect backdrop for an array of wonderful climbing plants. The softness and beauty of these adds a touch of romanticism to your garden, while the scented blooms create a welcoming aura.

Traditionally, pergolas have been freestanding structures but these new design corner pergolas offer a more versatile alternative. Fitting snugly into a corner, they’re a great way to maximise space by turning otherwise unusable corners into an intimate garden retreat. The unique diamond-shaped roof adds a stylish, contemporary twist to this gorgeous wooden structure and the premium grade spruce timber ensures that it’s built to last.

The building process is straightforward and the kits come with comprehensive instructions with photographs for each step. Before you start, it’s important to check that the ground is solid and that there are no buried services such as gas pipes or electricity cables. You’ll also want to notify any utility companies of your plans before digging holes for the posts. Once you’ve done this, mark the footprint of the pergola and dig the three anchoring holes – these should be around twice as wide as the base of the post and deep enough to exceed the local frost line.

Once the posts are firmly in place, you can add the rafters which are placed on top with uniform spacing between each. These are secured with metal screws and a weather-resistant finish protects the wood from environmental elements. Then you can add any extras you wish to complete your corner pergola such as trellis panels, lighting or accent plants.

You can even grow grape vines on the trellis and enjoy your own home-grown produce! A corner pergola seating area can be adorned with cushions, loungers, chairs, benches and throws for lazy days with friends or relaxing solo. You can also accessorise with lights, fragrance burners and a whole host of other fun garden accessories.

This particular corner pergola has trellis on two sides, but the plans are easily adapted to accommodate an odd-shaped corner and you can add or remove whichever side you prefer. This pergola has a bespoke feel and is perfect for showing off the beautiful wisteria that clings to it. You can find more ideas for creating a beautiful corner pergola in our article here.

Many homeowners and businesses are finding that a pergola is an attractive way to add shade and dimension to an outdoor living space. They are also a great option for creating a secluded area that is ideal for relaxing, reading, and entertaining. In addition, a pergola can add to the curb appeal of your home or business and increase its value.

Pergolas are typically constructed of wood, but they can be made of a variety of materials. Lattice panels and climbing plants can be added to the structure, adding visual interest and texture. They also act as natural barriers, shielding you from the view of neighboring properties and creating a sense of seclusion and privacy.

One of the biggest benefits of a residential pergola is its versatility. It can be placed practically anywhere on a property and used as a focal point in a garden or backyard. Many residents choose to situate their pergola over a patio, pool, or fire pit. They may even use it to create an outdoor dining or seating area. Others prefer to use it as an elegant entryway into a yard or garden, creating a unique entrance that adds a distinctive architectural element to the property.

A pergola can serve as a stunning backdrop for a vegetable or herb garden. It can also be integrated into a flower garden to add color and scent. It can be covered in lush green vines like wisteria or ivy, which create a beautiful natural ambiance and provide a cooling effect on hot summer days.

While some people enjoy a pergola without any covering, others prefer to enhance the aesthetic of theirs by adding a drape or fabric. These simple additions are a cost-effective way to increase the ambiance of an outdoor space and give it a feeling of luxury and sophistication. They are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can find one that perfectly matches your home or commercial property.

Adding a residential pergola to your outdoor living space is an excellent investment that can be enjoyed for years to come. It provides a beautiful and functional focal point that complements your landscape design while boosting the curb appeal of your home or commercial property. It can also help you achieve a more productive and healthy lifestyle by encouraging you to spend time outdoors.

A pergola is an excellent choice for residential or commercial properties and can be built to your specifications by a local landscape professional or purchased as a kit from one of the many well-known manufacturers in the U.S. Whether you decide on an attached or freestanding model, make sure to check with your local government for any permitting requirements that might apply. With the proper planning, you can be enjoying a pergola on your property in no time. Contact us at StruXure to learn more about the benefits of adding a pergola to your garden or landscaping design.

A floating deck is a versatile addition to any outdoor space, adding visual appeal while offering a variety of benefits. Some of the reasons to choose this type of deck include the ability to take advantage of scenic views or unique landscape features, not having to disturb existing tree roots, and a less invasive construction process. Floating decks are also easy to move, allowing you to reconfigure your outdoor space to meet changing needs and preferences.

Building a floating deck can be done with minimal materials, making it affordable for many homeowners. The main cost factor is the deck boards, which can be made of wood or composite material. Using composite is often less expensive than wood because it requires less maintenance and has better durability. The deck blocks used to support the structure are another major expense, though these are generally cheaper than concrete piers and do not require the excavation and cement mix that in-ground piers do.

In terms of other expenses, the size and height of your deck will affect the overall cost. Typically, the higher the deck, the more expensive it will be. Homeowners should consider the amount of use they will get out of their deck when choosing a height. If the deck will be used to hold furniture and people, a lower deck is best for safety and comfort.

It is essential to understand the rules and regulations in your area before starting any construction work. Your local building department or council should be able to tell you whether a permit is required and provide you with any relevant forms and information. They can also give you advice about how close to the property line or water/sewage pipes you can build your deck.

Before you begin constructing your deck, it is important to clear the site and remove any grass, weeds, or debris. It is also a good idea to call 811 before digging to have all buried utilities located and marked. This will help you avoid costly damage and injury.

Once the ground has been cleared, a layer of gravel can be laid down. This helps prevent weeds from growing underneath the deck and provides stability for the structure. Additionally, it will level uneven or sloping ground and reduce the chance that the deck may sink over time.

The final step before beginning construction is to prepare the site. This includes calling 811 to have all buried utilities (water, sewage, electrical) located and marked. It is also a good idea to use a vegetation-killing chemical on any areas where you plan on building your deck, as this will help prevent moisture damage and potentially dangerous plants from growing under your new deck.

A few other tools you will need for the project include a circular saw, a trowel, and a corded drill. A wheelbarrow will be helpful in transporting the concrete for the footings, and a measuring tape will be useful for ensuring accurate measurements.

As more homeowners discover the benefits of a low-maintenance composite deck, demand for these eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood continues to grow. But with so many brands and models to choose from, how do you know which is best for your needs? This article explores the key factors to consider when evaluating a composite decking brand, including its durability, initial cost, color options, and warranty terms. The best composite decking brands offer superior resistance to fading, staining, and scratching while maintaining their shape and being mold-proof and insect-proof.

Most composites are available in solid or capped styles. Uncapped boards are less expensive but may be more prone to staining because the natural wood fibers remain exposed to rain and sun. More expensive capped composites use a PVC cap to sequester the wood fibers and protect the deck surface, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas that can quickly become stained. They also typically come with a limited fade and stain warranty that lasts up to 50 years.

The best composite decking brands offer a wide selection of colors, textures, and design options to suit any taste. Some offer a mix of earth tones that mimic the look of real wood, while others feature more vibrant hues that can add an on-trend pop to any outdoor space. Most brands also allow you to select the thickness and texture of your decking boards, and whether they are grooved or smooth-surfaced.

Another important factor to keep in mind when choosing a composite decking brand is its slip-resistance. Entry-level composites generally have a smooth surface that can be slippery when wet, but higher quality products are textured for safety and certified to meet an industry standard known as the coefficient of friction, or COF.

A reputable composite decking brand will be well-respected in the industry and backed by a strong warranty. Some of the most trusted names in composite decking include Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon, Azek, and Deckorators.

When evaluating the best composite decking brands, you should look for a product that provides value and return on investment for your specific project needs. Premium options will usually be priced significantly more than entry-level and mid-range options, so it is important to balance quality with your budget.

The most recognizable name in composite decking is Trex, which offers multiple product lines with different features and finishes to suit any home’s aesthetic. The company’s Transcend line, for example, is known for its rich colors and realistic streaking that replicate the beauty of real wood. It is also backed by a limited 25-year residential fade and stain warranty. MoistureShield is another popular and durable option, which is manufactured in the US and backed by a transferable 50-year structural warranty. Its composite decking is splinter-free and insect-proof, and it comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. Its boards can be fastened to joists with screws driven through the face or into clips that are inserted along the edges.

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.