Bechtle Architects

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!

A deck is a great way to extend your living space and increase your home’s value. But a deck must be built to support the weight of furniture, barbecues, and people, as well as meet local building codes and safety regulations. This requires a professional deck builder, so it is important to research companies and find one that offers competitive pricing. Also, a deck builder that offers an extended warranty is a good choice.

Decking is an alternative to concrete, stone or a patio. It is usually constructed on top of a wooden base and provides a level area for entertaining or relaxing. It is popular in many parts of the world, especially in warmer climates, and can be made from a wide range of materials including wood, composites, or metal.

The most common types of decking include wood, composite and PVC. Each material has its own benefits and disadvantages, but it is important to consider all your options before choosing a decking product. For example, wood may be more expensive than composite or PVC, but it is a sustainable product that can last for decades with minimal maintenance. Composite and PVC decking can also be less expensive than wood, but they have a shorter lifespan and may require more frequent replacement.

Before starting construction on a new deck, it is important to plan out the layout and choose a design that suits your needs and budget. It is also a good idea to consult with your municipality and local building codes to determine whether you need a permit or are required to submit drawings. Depending on the size and height of your deck, you may also need to obtain a builders licence.

Creating the foundation for your deck begins with marking the floor frame joist spacing, which is typically 16 inches on-center for end joists and 8 inches on-center for center joists. After the joists are marked, the deck boards can be laid. If possible, try to stagger the spaces between each board for a more seamless look.

After constructing the deck, it is time to stain, seal or paint. But before doing this, it is important to wait 2-3 weeks or longer if you used pressure treated lumber. This is because the lumber must have time to acclimate and dry out before it can be stained, sealed or painted.

When creating a deck, it is essential to think about who you will be presenting the deck to. Understanding the audience will help you structure and format the content of your deck in a way that is most effective for your audience. For instance, a deck created for an upcoming presentation with a client will need to strike a different visual tone than a slide that is being sent as an email attachment to co-workers. Similarly, a deck that will be presented IRL (in person) at an event will need to be more formal than one being created for a webinar.

A pergola is a free-standing garden structure that provides shade and a charming accent to your backyard. It is a beautiful addition to your outdoor living space and can be used to define different areas of your yard, from a dining area to a relaxing lounging spot. You can also add a roof to the pergola and decorate it with plants and lights for an even more inviting atmosphere. With a little bit of care and effort, you can transform your pergola into an irresistible oasis for you and your guests.

Aside from their innate beauty, pergolas also provide a number of practical benefits. They provide shade, which is essential for your outdoor furniture and helps keep your family cool during the hot summer months. Additionally, they can help to reduce energy costs by limiting the amount of sunlight that enters your home.

The structure can be constructed out of a variety of materials, including wood and metal. Wooden structures are often constructed from pressure treated pine or cedar for strength and longevity. Aside from regular staining, these types of structures require minimal upkeep. A wooden pergola can last up to 15 years if properly maintained. Metal and vinyl pergolas can withstand harsh weather conditions and can be customized with a variety of finishes.

Pergolas are an excellent choice for growing vines and flowers. Climbing and creeping plants, like ivy, grape vines and wisteria, grow very well on the sturdy support of a pergola. They also attract a variety of insects, birds and pollinators, fostering biodiversity in your backyard ecosystem. Additionally, the canopy of your pergola can be adorned with colorful string lights or a fan for additional aesthetic appeal and functionality.

If you’re considering a pergola for your garden or patio, it is important to consult local authorities regarding permitting and regulations. Failure to comply with city or town requirements could result in hefty fines and may even force you to tear down your pergola. Moreover, it is crucial to check the location of your pergola for potential conflicts with utility lines and easements before building it.

Adding a pergola to your outdoor space creates an attractive focal point that will catch the eye of guests and passersby. This is especially true if the structure is adorned with vibrant vines and flowers. However, it is important to make sure that the structure does not encroach on your neighbor’s property or block the view of your house.

With its defining structure and ambiance, a pergola is the perfect place to relax with a good book or enjoy a cup of coffee by yourself. It can also be a great place to entertain or hold a small party. You can also equip it with a hammock or set up an outdoor workstation for a tranquil meditation space. Just be careful when choosing your plants so that they don’t overtake your pergola. You should also be mindful of termites and other pests that might damage your structure.

All Ekodeck products are available exclusively at Bunnings Warehouse. Visit your nearest branch to see the full range and speak with an expert about trade pricing, online ordering and delivery.

Bunnings Workshop members have been busy building decks to enhance their homes and entertain guests. This low-level Merbau deck was built by workshop member Neo19 as part of a backyard transformation and took just four days to build. Narrow areas down the side of the house can be difficult to work with but MGusto created this gorgeous deck that doubles as a garden bed.

A retractable pergola canopy can transform a space into a tranquil retreat or a gathering place for friends and family. The adjustable roof provides shade and protection from UV rays, wind and rain, while also offering the option to fully open up to enjoy the sun or stars in the evening. The retractable feature can help extend the usability of the outdoor living area, and it is available in a variety of design options to complement the aesthetic of the space or the architectural style of the home.

A pergola is a freestanding or attached structure with support posts and beams, typically located in the yard or garden. It can be enclosed with a trellis or other covering to protect the interior and provide privacy from the view of buildings or homes. A retractable canopy offers the additional benefit of protecting people and furniture from direct sunlight or light rain, which can reduce air conditioning electricity bills in the summer.

Adding a retractable canopy to a pergola can be a DIY project, or you can hire a professional to do the work for you. The first step is to determine the size of the area you wish to cover. This will help you choose a fabric that fits the structure and provides the right amount of coverage.

Measure the length and width of the pergola to determine how much fabric you need. The canopy fabric should be slightly larger than the pergola’s measurement, as it will be stretched taut when installed. The excess fabric can be cut off with scissors or wire cutters to make the canopy a perfect fit. The excess can be stored away to be used to cover an existing pergola or to create a second canopy for another area of the yard.

You can install the wooden support bars above or below the canopy fabric. Installing the bars above the fabric gives a clean, finished look that emphasizes the draping of the canopy. Installing the bars below the fabric means that the netting will be visible from underneath, but it provides a stronger attachment since the supports are holding up the canopy instead of just staples.

The final step is to attach the netting to the support bars using thimbles and clamps. A helpful assistant can help with this process, as it may be difficult to reach all the way around the supports. Once the thimbles and clamps are in place, you can connect the wire ropes to each thimble using a turnbuckle. The hook ends of the turnbuckles should be secured to the eye screws on each of the three support bars. The free ends of the wire ropes should be extended out as far as possible to get a sense of where to cut them. Then, use wire cutters to cut them to the desired length.

With the canopy partially closed, you can still enjoy winter’s beauty of snow-covered landscapes and glistening icicles. If the weather turns unpleasant, you can close the canopy to shield yourself from heavy snow or freezing rain.

When it comes to outdoor structures, a pergola offers the best of both worlds: it’s an attractive feature that also provides shade. Whether you want to hang planters, vines or other decorative elements from its open framework, a pergola will transform your backyard into a place that’s filled with natural beauty and personal style. But, before you begin building, it’s important to make sure you have a clear plan in mind and that you’ve got all the necessary materials and tools.

The first step in any permanent outdoor project is setting the posts. With a pergola, this is even more critical since the structure’s overall height will depend on how high you set the posts. To ensure that your structure is perfectly straight and level, follow a simple strategy: Set the posts in the ground before you attach any other supports. This will help you avoid having to build a concrete footing, which is an expensive and time-consuming undertaking.

Once the posts are in the ground, it’s time to lay out the base for your pergola. This is a simple process: Measure the distance from one end of your garden to the other, then divide it by 2 to find the center point. Use a level to mark this spot on the ground, then dig holes for each of the post footings. To prevent frost heave, make sure that the holes are at least 24 in. below grade.

Next, mix fast-drying concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions and pour it into the holes. Use a shovel to stir the concrete as it’s being poured to work up any air bubbles, then let the footings cure for 48 hours. If you’re concerned about the strength of your concrete, add rebar at 8 in. on each side for added support.

Now you’re ready to assemble the main beams of your pergola. The rafters aren’t as complicated as you might think: The lower rafters are notched 2 in. from the ends, and the upper rafters are 2 to 3 feet longer than the width of the pergola. To assemble the rafters, first clamp the main beams in place, then use a drill to drive 3-inch deck screws through each joint between the lower and upper rafters.

To finish the look of your pergola, you can paint or stain it. But before you do, fill the pilot holes and screw heads on each column with auto body fiberglass filler. Once that’s done, sand the columns to make them smooth and prime them with an oil-based primer. Finally, paint the columns with a good-quality exterior acrylic latex.

Pergolas come in countless styles, but it’s important to consider what you want yours to do before you start. Some people like to use theirs to create a cozy space where they can enjoy morning coffee or a relaxing evening outdoors. Others envision an elegant dining area or a focal point in the garden where beautiful vines climb. Whatever your goal, we can help you build a pergola that’s perfect for your space and style.

Trex is a premium composite decking brand that offers an alternative to traditional wood. Its materials resist rot, splintering and mold growth, while also requiring less maintenance than natural wood. However, the cost of a trex deck can vary, depending on the project specifications and its additional features. Homeowners can minimize trex decking costs by choosing a basic design that excludes stairs and rails, and by working with a professional during the off-season to save on labor rates.

Trex offers three different composite decking lines: Enhance, Select and Transcend. Each has a unique color range, as well as varying features and price points. Enhance Basics and Enhance Naturals are the cheapest options, while Select is a mid-range option and Transcend offers the highest quality. Stairs and railings can significantly increase the cost of a trex deck, as they require specialized building materials and labor-intensive installation. To cut down on stair and railing costs, homeowners can choose simple square or rectangular designs over rounded ones.

Pergolas are a popular addition to Trex decks, as they offer both aesthetic and practical benefits. They help to define different outdoor spaces and create privacy, while also offering shade. Homeowners can install trex pergolas with ceiling fans and lighting to further enhance the functionality of their decks.

Deck stairs and rails are an important safety feature that should not be overlooked when planning a trex deck. They can add a sense of grandeur to a deck and also allow homeowners to access the yard and garden without climbing a ladder. In most areas, local building codes determine the height and spacing of stairs and railings. Therefore, if a homeowner wants their trex deck to comply with building regulations, they will need to pay for these accessories.

Many trex decking companies offer financing options, which can reduce the upfront cost of a new deck and make it more affordable for homeowners on any budget. Homeowners can also look for ways to further cut the cost of a trex deck by opting for a more basic design and excluding features like outdoor storage solutions or a built-in grill area. Other budget-friendly accessories include a Trex RainEscape system, which doubles the usable space of a deck by draining water and snowmelt to keep it dry.

Trex decking uses recycled plastic and wood, as well as reclaimed material to create an eco-friendly product that can last for years. Its minimal maintenance saves homeowners money on stains, sealants and power-washing, as well as time spent repairing and cleaning. This helps to reduce carbon footprints and maintain the beauty of their homes.

A trex deck can be installed on a wood or concrete frame, but the construction of the foundation can significantly impact the total cost of the project. A professional builder will be able to provide more accurate estimates for this part of the project, but homeowners who want to save money can consider doing the work themselves. In this case, they should purchase a trex decking calculator to estimate the material and labor costs of their project.