Bechtle Architects

A garden deck is a great way to define an area of your garden, create a focal point for entertaining or simply add some visual interest. It also provides a space for you to relax and unwind. Decks can be accessorised with furniture, lighting and carefully chosen potted plants to set a particular vibe.

You can also add a touch of whimsy and style by using innovative deck board placement or staining techniques to make your garden’s new feature truly stand out. This could take the form of a diagonal pattern or eye-catching herringbone layout, for example.

Whatever the design of your garden, there is a timber garden decking to suit it. The type of wood will depend on the specific features of your garden. For instance, if the majority of your garden is in full sunlight you may wish to choose a hardwood like oak which offers good levels of UV resistance to prevent any damage.

Softwood garden decking can be treated to provide protection against rot and decay. However, this does reduce the lifespan of the timber compared to hardwearing hardwoods. It is also worth considering how often you will use your garden deck as this will help to determine whether a more expensive hardwearing option would be worthwhile.

For those who are interested in environmentally responsible gardening, you can look into the possibility of sustainably sourced wood options for your garden decking. This will not only reduce your carbon footprint but it will also contribute to a more durable and long-lasting finish for your garden deck.

One of the main perks of garden decking is that it is a relatively low-maintenance solution to your outdoor space. Regularly sweeping with a stiff brush will help to shift any dirt or debris, while a few pressure washes each year should remove more stubborn stains and algae.

If you are looking to create an alfresco dining zone on your deck, you can further enhance its usability by incorporating a glass canopy. This will allow you to enjoy your deck even in the rain and can be enhanced with statement garden furniture.

If a favourite tree in your garden has been damaged by wind or storm, you can build a garden deck around it. This can be achieved by adding some additional structure beneath the deck to support the trunk, and then blocking off the area of the deck at either end of the trunk with joist off-cuts and blocking screws.

At RHS Chelsea this year we saw a trend for gardens with a wild and natural feel, with organic shapes and curved pathways. A curved deck built around a large tree in your garden would create a beautiful and unique aesthetic, and can be softened with planting to ensure that it blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

A pergola is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, offering attractive decoration and calming privacy. Whether you’re constructing your pergola or updating an existing one, choosing the right shade cover can increase the comfort and utility of your structure, and you’ll find plenty of options available for any budget or taste. Explore popular pergola shade ideas below to get an idea of what will look and function best in your backyard.

Regional climatic conditions, color implications and aesthetic appeal all play a role in pergola shade selection. UV-resistant fabrics are important in hot climates, while darker colors can absorb sun heat and help keep your area cooler. Some materials are more durable than others, and some may require regular maintenance or repairs to prevent rot and insect infestation.

To maximize the effectiveness of your pergola shade, consider incorporating walls or screens into your design. These elements can add protection from the wind, block sunlight or create a calming backdrop for your seating area. Lattice or lattice-style walls are ideal for creating privacy, and they also complement many design styles.

Another way to provide shade is by planting vines on the pergola structure. While this option is beautiful and natural, it can take time for the plants to grow to a point where they provide adequate coverage. For a quicker solution, many people opt to install a fabric or screen canopy on top of their pergola.

You can also use a retractable or removable cover to adjust the amount of sun that filters through your pergola shade, allowing you to enjoy your patio in different seasons and at different times of day. This type of option can also be useful if you want to protect yourself from bugs while watching a football game or enjoying a dinner with friends.

A retractable or removable shade can also be convenient for storing your pergola during offseason periods. Ensure it’s properly cleaned and dried before putting it away to prevent mildew or mold growth, and be sure to store it in a dry and well-ventilated location. Using a moisture inhibitor can also help reduce the chances of mold and mildew during offseason storage, making it easier to prepare your pergola for the next season.

If you have a passion for DIY projects, you can save money by building your own pergola shade with a kit. There are several different types of kits on the market, and they’re usually easy to follow. Some kits even include the necessary hardware, and you’ll be able to customize your shade according to your specific needs. However, it’s a good idea to consult a professional for installation to ensure the safety and longevity of your new fixture. In either case, you’ll have a pergola that will give you years of enjoyment. With the right shade in place, your garden or poolside deck can become a tranquil retreat that will invite you to relax and unwind.

Whether it’s the hub of your outdoor living, a place to dine al fresco with friends or just somewhere to unwind under the stars, a deck can make the world of difference to how you spend your time outdoors. But it takes more than just a deck to elevate your outdoor space into a truly special place. It’s about the memories it creates, the moments you enjoy in it & the richer life that can be lived outside with family & friends.

With Millboard’s composite decking & cladding, you can create a space where those moments happen – without the stress & expense of regular maintenance. Engineered to withstand the elements & weather, it resists warping, rotting & splitting and is more durable than traditional timber, so you can look forward to enjoying your outdoor spaces for many years to come.

While most other composite decking is extruded, Millboard is a genuine wood-free product that’s hand-moulded from oak & then hand-coloured. This results in a far more natural-looking finish – you’ll hardly know it’s not real wood unless you’re close up! It’s also much easier to work with than other composite products. You can cut it with standard woodworking tools & no pre-drilling is required, as the clever Lastane surface flexes back over the screws to create an invisible ‘lost head’ effect.

The lack of any timber content means that it can’t support damp & fungal growth, making it perfect for use in termite-prone areas & as a replacement for termite-damaged wooden boards. Plus, it doesn’t absorb dirt & spillages like a timber deck – so you can simply sweep it down regularly with a garden broom and occasionally clean it down with soapy water.

As a premium composite product, it comes with an impressive warranty to give you peace of mind that your investment will stand the test of time. This extends to a 25-year limited structural & labour warranty & a 12-year anti-fading guarantee, giving you total confidence that your new decking will keep looking its best for years to come.

Designed to withstand demanding outdoor environments, it’s made from a blend of natural minerals bonded in a polymer resin with long-fibre reinforcement & topped with the unique Lastane layer & UV-stable 2k coating. The durable core means that it resists warping, rotting, cupping & splitting, making it a more resilient alternative to traditional timber – giving you the peace of mind that your investment will stand the tests of time.

Its durability & low maintenance mean that it is also an ideal option for commercial spaces, such as parks & schools where heavy footfall will damage conventional decking & cladding over time. In fact, both Legoland in Windsor & Kew Gardens have chosen Millboard for their hard-wearing nature & the ability to accommodate thousands of visitors each year.

The final touch to a deck that brings it to life, skirting is more than just an aesthetic element. It hides the unsightly structure of the deck supports and provides a sense of privacy while also offering security and pest control. In addition, it allows homeowners to keep miscellaneous outdoor items like ladders, tools, and flower pots under the deck out of sight and off the ground.

When deciding on a deck skirting style, homeowners must consider their purposes for the space and choose a material that will suit their personal tastes and budget. Wood, vinyl, and composite materials are common options because they offer a wide range of styles and are long-lasting. Metal is less common, but offers a cool industrial look that can complement modern designs. Bamboo screening is another affordable option that gives a natural, tropical feel to any home.

Regardless of the type of skirting chosen, regular cleaning and maintenance are vital for a healthy and attractive finish. Remove dirt, mildew, and debris from the surface regularly with warm, soapy water. It’s also important to periodically inspect the deck for damage and repair as needed. For the most durable results, it’s a good idea to apply a fresh coat of sealant or paint to prevent moisture buildup and other problems.

Deck Skirting and Critter Control

The space under a deck can be a cozy and inviting shelter for squirrels, raccoons, opossums, and other wild animals seeking warmth and food. While many homeowners turn to planters and shrubs to conceal this open space, these methods are not always effective. Having deck skirting helps to prevent these creatures from burrowing under the deck, chewing through wooden beams, and creating costly infrastructural issues for the homeowner. It’s possible to keep critters out by using mesh wiring that can be installed on the interior of the deck skirting panels, which will also keep them from chewing on any infrastructure or wood underneath the deck.

Although not essential, adding a deck skirt will help minimize the safety risks that an open space under the deck can pose, especially for young children and pets. Skirting will ensure that tripping and other accidents are prevented by covering the open area beneath the deck, while still allowing for easy access.

Though not a requirement, deck skirting is a great way to increase the value of your property and enhance your outdoor living experience. Choosing the right design to match your existing deck and home will create a cohesive, stylish look that will make your backyard feel like an extension of your living space. In addition, deck skirting will protect the foundational components of your deck from weather-related wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan and reducing costly repairs. Lastly, it can help to keep garbage and other unwanted debris from blowing under the deck, making cleanup much easier.

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.