Bechtle Architects

The right pergola adds beauty and value to your home’s outdoor spaces. When you think of the best backyards and patios you’ve ever been in, chances are that they had a central structure with a stunning design that elevated the entire area. That structure was most likely a pergola, and you’re in luck because Sam’s Club has pergolas for sale that are perfect to enhance your backyard or poolside space.

When you buy a pergola from Sam’s Club, you can select from an assortment of models and materials that feature different styles. For example, if you’re looking for something more rustic, go with a wood pergola. Or, if you want a sleeker look, choose one of the modern pergola kits that feature a clean-lined aesthetic. You’ll also find that our pergolas are available in a range of sizes to fit your space.

A free-standing pergola will instantly add an outdoor oasis to your yard and provide shade from the sun. These structures are ideal for creating a peaceful retreat in the middle of your yard where you can sit and relax or host a dinner party. You can even add a canopy to the top of your pergola to provide an additional shaded area.

Another option for your pergola is to have it attached to the wall of your house or deck. This gives your backyard a sense of enclosure and makes it feel like an extension of the inside of your home. The downside to this option is that you’ll have more maintenance to do. You’ll have to keep the structure in good condition and make sure that it doesn’t get rotten, warp or become infested by termites.

If you decide to have your pergola constructed by a professional, you can expect to pay a bit more than if you purchase one from the hardware store. However, the extra expense is well worth it in terms of the quality of construction and how long your pergola will last. Hardware store pergolas are typically built a-thousand-at-a-time in a factory and do not have the same durability as custom designed pergolas.

Whether you’re planning to use your pergola as a gathering spot for friends or as an aesthetic accent to your backyard, you’ll want to ensure that it is durable. If you’re concerned about the longevity of your pergola, opt for a vinyl model that features sun-protective additives to extend its useful life. If you prefer the traditional look, choose a cedar pergola. Both of these options will resist rot and decay better than pressure treated pine or cypress.

If you’re interested in learning more about the pergolas for sale at Sam’s Club, click the button below to learn more. We offer both DIY pergola kits and assembled models. The kits are easy to assemble and contain all of the necessary tools and instructions for your project. The assembled pergolas come with installation services to save you time and hassle.

Deck stairs add safety and accessibility to a deck, and they can also be a beautiful design feature. While they have to comply with code regulations, that doesn’t mean they can’t reflect your personal style. The color and type of deck board, railing style, and even other add-ons like stair lights contribute to the overall look of your stairs. With so many choices available, choosing the right deck stairs can be intimidating to the novice DIYer. In this article, I’ll break down the basics of stairs design so you can build the stairs that are just right for your home.

Before you start building, double-check all measurements to ensure that your stairs will comply with local building codes and guidelines, including the stair riser height and tread depth. Significant differences in the dimensions of your steps can cause tripping hazards or other structural problems. It’s best to plan and draw a detailed plan before beginning construction. It’s also a good idea to cross-tape your basic structure and take measurements at the top and bottom of each stair, and then make sure that the two cross measurements are equal.

Stair treads can be made from a variety of materials, from traditional wood to low-maintenance composite boards. Regardless of the material you choose, the most important consideration is that your treads are slip-resistant to prevent falls and injuries. Stair handrails are also essential for ensuring safety, particularly in wet or icy conditions.

Wood stairs are classic and durable, offering a warm and natural aesthetic that can complement any style of deck. However, they require regular maintenance, such as sanding and resealing every 24 months, to protect against mildew and mold. Additionally, wood is prone to warping and may need additional reinforcement if your deck is on an uneven grade.

Another option for a beautiful deck is to use concrete steps instead of wooden boards. This alternative offers a more modern, contemporary appearance and requires significantly less maintenance than wood stairs. It is also more affordable and has the advantage of being completely weather-proof, resistant to mold and rot, and not prone to warping or cracking over time.

If you’re planning to use concrete stairs, it’s a good idea to pour the landing pad first to ensure that it will be level and stable when your staircase is in place. Most local building codes require a landing with deck stairs, so check with your municipality before you begin the project.

A deck stair landing can be built with either concrete or wood, but it’s best to use a sturdy concrete slab if possible. A concrete landing pad is much easier to install than a wooden one, and it’s also better at resisting movement from the ground below the stairs than a wooden deck. Depending on your preference and the size of your staircase, you might be able to find pre-made concrete pads at a building supply store or concrete contractor. If not, you can easily make a concrete pad by using a form.

Whether you are looking to transform your outdoor space into an entertainment area, a relaxing retreat, or simply a place to soak up the sun’s rays and fresh air, a pergola can do it all. Having one built can make your backyard the envy of all your friends and family, as well as add value to your property. However, choosing the right structure can be challenging.

A Toja Grid pergola system has become a popular choice for homeowners, as its modularity makes it easy to customize the design and function of the structure. It is available in brackets designed for 4×4 or 6×6 lumber sizes, so homeowners can build their pergola to fit their unique needs and space. It can also be expanded with the addition of a 2×6 top and a privacy accent wall, which adds a rafter-like accent to the structure.

Another benefit of a Toja Grid pergola is its ease of installation. This is especially true for the Hanso Home pergola kit, which comes with pre-drilled holes and all the necessary hardware to make assembly a breeze. This kit is ideal for DIYers who may not be comfortable with more involved projects, such as a traditional wood pergola. The Toja Grid and Hanso Home systems are both excellent options for homeowners who want a sturdy, stylish pergola that will last for years to come.

For those who do not want to assemble their pergola themselves, there are several Orange County landscape contractors that can help. These professionals can provide a variety of wood pergola kits that will give any backyard a natural, rustic look and are very durable against harsh weather elements like rain and wind. They can also help you choose a size and shape that will best suit your space, as well as help you decide what type of finish and furniture to use.

Once your new pergola is complete, it will be time to turn it into the perfect spot for social gatherings and relaxation. Adding lounge chairs or a hammock will create the perfect setting for conversations with family and friends. You can even add some lighting to the area, such as solar lights, to create a more inviting ambiance for starlit gatherings.

If you are looking for a more affordable and versatile alternative to the Toja Grid pergola, consider the Hanso Home aluminum pergola kit. Its modern design and high-quality materials make it a top contender in the market, and its easy-to-assemble design is sure to appeal to homeowners of all budgets and styles. Compared to the Toja Grid system, the Hanso Home kit offers superior durability and quality, and can be easily customized to match your individual style preferences.

A pergola with retractable roof offers a versatile solution for your outdoor living space. It lets you adjust the amount of sunlight, wind and rain that enters your patio or garden, ensuring comfort for guests and family members who are using the area. This innovative outdoor structure is available in a wide variety of styles and sizes, making it easy to find one that matches your backyard’s design and decor. It can be free-standing or attached to your home, depending on the size and style of your yard and your personal preferences.

Pergolas can be customized with a range of different roof colors and materials, offering homeowners the ability to create an elegant, functional space that reflects their individual tastes. The customization options extend beyond the structure’s dimensions as well. You can choose a model with louvers, a canopy made from slatted lattice or a fabric shade that can be adjusted for the season.

The first step in a pergola with retractable roof installation is to determine the size of your desired canopy. The width of the cloth must be at least twice as wide as your pergola’s overall width to provide full coverage. You must also take into account the draping effect you wish to achieve. Cloth with tighter sags has a more finished, clean look, while cloth with deeper sags gives your pergola an airy, fanciful appearance. After determining the size of your desired canopy, you must decide on its color and material.

If you opt for a fabric canopy, you must secure it to your pergola using a special type of hardware, known as a thimble-and-wire rope fitting. The thimble, which resembles a sewing thimble but does not have a hole through which thread can be fed, is anchored to one of the pergola’s beams with a screw eye. The free end of the wire rope is then threaded through the thimble, over the screw eye and back through itself to secure it.

For the best results, your retractable roof should be installed by a qualified and experienced professional. They will ensure that the system works properly and that it is in good working condition. They will also install any necessary attachments and connect your retractable roof to a power source, if needed. They will also clean and lubricate the system to prevent wear and tear and to keep it in top working condition for years to come.

To keep your pergola with retractable roof looking beautiful, you should perform regular visual inspections to identify and address any signs of wear and tear or damage. This can help you prevent small problems from escalating into more serious issues that affect the integrity of your structure and the safety of your guests and family members.

A wood deck is an attractive, versatile and inexpensive way to extend your home’s living space into the outdoor environment. It can be designed to meet your unique needs and match the design aesthetic of your house. It also provides an excellent alternative to concrete patios.

A deck increases the value of your home and can also serve as a focal point of the landscape. Its versatility means it can be built to accommodate a hot tub, garden, grilling area, seating area or whatever you might like. It’s an excellent choice for uneven yard terrain, as it can be constructed on top of the existing soil instead of digging and pouring concrete foundation piers.

The primary building materials for a wooden deck are pressure-treated lumber and western red cedar or redwood. Both are readily available at local lumber yards. However, cedar is generally less expensive than redwood.

Both types of wood can be stained or painted to match your design and complement the natural colors of the landscaping around your deck. Wood is an easy construction material to work with and can be shaped to fit any layout or structure you can imagine.

The cost of a wood deck will vary depending on the size, location and complexity. It may also be affected by whether you opt for solid or hollow boards, and how it is built.

According to HomeAdvisor, the cost of labor is typically half or more of your total deck project costs. This includes the deck itself as well as the foundation installation. For a simple, square-shaped deck, the builder will probably charge about $15 per square foot to construct and install it. If you include a staircase or a wraparound deck, the cost will increase.

Before you begin constructing your deck, you’ll need to prepare the site. Begin by digging holes at 8-foot intervals in the locations of each foundation pier. Then, use batter boards and mason’s strings to mark footing locations on the deck’s outside corners and at 8-foot intervals along the front rim joist. Dig the footing holes to the proper depth for your region’s frost zone and set each pier in its form.

As you frame your deck, it’s important to follow the proper spacing of joists and to add a layer of bridging between the joists to keep them from twisting as they support the decking. You’ll also want to make sure that the deck is raised a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above grade, especially if you live in an area with cold winters. This will prevent frost heave, which can cause your deck to sink over time.

A pergola with a retractable roof is a handsome addition to any outdoor space, providing shade and visual charm. Its sleek structure makes it the perfect setting to host garden parties, family lunches or just relax with a cup of coffee.

A stylishly designed pergola with a retractable roof will elevate your home’s outdoor living area and set it apart from other gardens. It will instantly captivate the attention of everybody who steps into your backyard. You can choose from a range of pergola kits with a retractable canopy, available in different sizes and color options.

The slatted roof of the pergola can be adjusted to block sunlight or let in light and air. It can also be opened to view the sky and stars in complete comfort. This is a versatile feature that can be controlled with the help of a remote control or a wall switch.

These structures are made with a sturdy aluminium frame and a high-quality fabric cover. They come in a variety of colors and designs to complement your home and create a comfortable and inviting outdoor setting. Moreover, the durable material used for the cover is fade-resistant and weather-proof. Additionally, it is able to resist mold and mildew. It can also withstand heavy rains and snowfall without any damage.

Besides their aesthetics, pergolas with a retractable roof are also highly functional. They can reduce your dependence on artificial light and minimize the temperature of your glass-roof rooms, which can save you a lot of money in energy costs. Furthermore, these structures are easy to maintain and can be cleaned with a gentle brush or a mild detergent solution.

They can transform your garden into a cool and relaxing oasis during the sweltering summer days. They can protect you and your guests from harmful UV rays by blocking direct sunlight. You can also enhance their functionality by installing outdoor lighting and heating options.

In the autumn, they can provide a beautiful backdrop for the changing colors of the leaves. Moreover, you can keep the roof partially open to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of nature.

A pergola with a retractable roof is an attractive and affordable option for homeowners looking to add shade and style to their garden. It is easy to install and can be customized with different features to suit your personal preferences. You can also use it as a focal point for your backyard and add more privacy to your house with a custom-made pergola with a retractable roof. In addition, it can increase your home’s resale value and act as a selling point for prospective buyers. Therefore, it is important to keep your pergola in good condition to reap the benefits of this investment. Regular maintenance and periodic inspections can help you extend the life of your retractable pergola. Moreover, you can repair any damage or wear and tear as soon as it occurs to avoid any major structural issues.

If you want to add a focal point that enhances the beauty and functionality of your outdoor living space, consider adding a pergola. A freestanding or attached pergola can provide shade and a sense of serenity. A pergola can be constructed using a wide variety of materials, but it is important to ensure the structure withstands harsh weather conditions and other environmental factors.

A pergola attached to your house can save material costs versus building a stand-alone structure. However, it is crucial to take precautions to prevent damage to the home’s exterior during construction and to protect against water infiltration that can cause wood rot and attract termites. It is also important to determine if you will need to obtain a permit for the structure, which may be necessary depending on your local regulations.

The first step to constructing a pergola attached to your house is to mark the location where the support posts will be placed in the yard. Once you have a clear idea of where the structure will be located, dig holes for the posts and place concrete in them to keep them secure in the ground. Once the concrete has set, sand down rough edges and fill any voids with cement.

Next, construct a wooden ledger board or joist hangers to fasten to the wall of your home. Use a level and jigsaw to cut four notches into the ledger board or joist hangers, if needed, to create a strong connection between the two structures. Once the ledger is secured, apply caulk or flashing to seal the gap between the home and the pergola to prevent water from getting into unsealed joints.

Once the ledger and joist hangers are secure, begin installing your rafters. If you’re using a traditional, square-cut rafter, attach each rafter to the ledger and to one of the joist hangers with weather-resistant screws. Make sure to space the rafters evenly to reduce material waste and promote even weight distribution.

Finally, install a wire or wood lattice on the top of your pergola to give twining vines, such as wisteria, bougainvillea, or grapevine, something to grow on. This will not only add to the aesthetic of your structure, but it can also help support the vines as they climb.

A pergola attached to your house can be an excellent spot to relax or entertain guests in your backyard. With the right design and accessories, you can turn your pergola into a cozy nook for lounging and dining. Incorporate lighting fixtures to extend the life and use of your pergola into the evening, and add a privacy screen or built-in seating to further complete the look of your outdoor space. With the right care, you can enjoy your pergola attached to your house for years to come.

A garden pergola is a decorative structure that can add shape and height to an outdoor space. They also offer shade from the sun, and can be a great base for vines and other climbing plants. They can be built freestanding or attached to a wall, deck or house. There are many different pergola designs available, so you can choose one that best suits your garden and home style. There are also a number of options for roofing your pergola, which can provide extra protection from the elements and lower upkeep costs.

Pergolas are very popular in Mediterranean countries where they are frequently covered with grapes and wisteria. They were also popular in the Arts and Crafts movement and were prominent features at William Randolph Hearst’s castle at San Simeon, California. They are also easy to install and can be a relatively inexpensive addition to any landscape.

The key to a good garden pergola is finding the right location. You’ll want to think about how you plan to use the space – if you’re going to be entertaining guests then you might need to site the pergola closer to the house, but if it will be a quiet hideaway then a more secluded spot might be better. Consider the ground conditions as well – do you have any slopes in your garden that could affect how the pergola is set up?

If you’re using your pergola for dining or relaxing then you may need to consider the positioning of nearby trees that could eventually grow tall enough to shade your space. In addition, you should check with local zoning laws and homeowners’ association regulations to ensure that you’re within their guidelines for how big a garden structure can be.

Some people choose to roof their pergola – this provides protection from the rain and makes it much more usable on overcast days, but it can increase the upkeep and installation costs. It’s also important to note that a roof will change the overall appearance of your pergola, and may not work as well with some garden styles or types of furniture.

If you’re considering a roof for your pergola, then you should also take into account the type of material it will be made from. Timber can rot or become damaged over time, so it’s best to choose an aluminium option that will be long-lasting and require less maintenance. Aluminium also has the benefit of being lightweight, which can make it easier to handle and assemble. In addition, some aluminium pergolas come with a range of add-ons and options that can help to keep you protected from the weather, such as louvered roofs that can be opened when it’s sunny and closed when it’s raining. This can be a real bonus in the unpredictable UK climate!

A pergola is a shaded outdoor structure that can enhance the look of a garden, patio or deck and add structure to your yard. It can be freestanding or attached to a house, and it usually has columns that support beams running across its roof. These slats—called rafters and stringers—are available in a variety of styles, from modern to classic, and can be made of wood or other materials.

Traditionally, these wooden structures are left unpainted and with natural weathering to blend into the surrounding environment. However, a growing number of homeowners and designers are choosing to paint them or stain the wood, which can create a more polished and refined look. Adding louvers or sun screens to these walls can make them more functional and control the amount of sunlight that flows through, so people can use the space even when it’s sunny out.

If you want to give your pergola a more modern or minimal feel, consider securing bamboo roll screening to the wooden beams. This type of screening is available at many DIY stores and is easy to work with; you can just staple the screen to the rafters or wooden supports using a staple gun. You can also add a touch of luxury to your pergola by hanging a chandelier, as the homeowner did in this example. Just be sure to hang it securely so that it doesn’t fall on anyone who’s using the seating area underneath.

Other ways to customize a pergola include growing climbing plants up and over the sides or across its roof. This idea can be a fun project for gardeners, as it provides instant color and natural shade to any seating area beneath the pergola. For a more traditional look, try growing grapevines up one or more of the posts. This will instantly give your backyard a winery-inspired look, and the sweet smell of the vines will be a welcome addition to any al fresco meals that take place under the shade.

Pergolas are a great way to frame water features, such as a koi pond or a swimming pool. This feature makes the whole outdoor area more visually appealing and can make it easier to relax in when the temperatures are hot. You can build a separate water element for your pergola, or you can install it so that the pond is directly under the structure, as in this example from Mindy Gayer Design Company.

If you don’t have the time to build your own pergola, look for a kit that includes all the necessary parts and pieces for the structure. Then, simply follow the instructions to install it in your garden or patio. This is a much easier project than building it from scratch, but you’ll still need to clear a few weekends out of your schedule. Alternatively, you can hire a professional landscaper to help you with this backyard project. They’ll be able to help you choose the right kit for your project and create a custom pergola that suits your backyard.

If you own an above ground pool, adding a deck is a great way to increase its value and create a beautiful spot for relaxation. Unlike a standard patio, pool decks are specifically designed to withstand heavy use and exposure to the elements. You can opt for a wood or low-maintenance composite deck that requires less frequent staining and sanding to cut down on yearly maintenance costs.

Depending on how much you plan to spend, your pool deck may require an investment upfront. However, it will also save you money in the long run due to reduced yearly maintenance and repairs. If you choose to use wood, select a decking material that is resistant to rot and mildew so it will last longer.

The shape of your above-ground pool will determine which type of pool deck you should build. You can opt for a side deck, which is built close to the edge of the pool and is large enough to accommodate a ladder or steps. Or, you can go with a full-surround deck that is built to wrap around the perimeter of your above-ground pool and hide the walls. This style of deck is typically connected to the house for easy access, safety and a more streamlined appearance.

If your budget is tight, consider a pre-fab pool deck that is assembled offsite and delivered ready to install next to your pool. It’s an affordable option that takes up to half as much time as a custom deck. Plus, you can still customize it to suit your pool and backyard.

Add a gate between your deck and the pool to protect kids or pets from accidentally entering the water. You can even include a self-closing gate to prevent access for unsupervised children. In addition to being an important safety feature, this design will also keep debris from falling into the water.

To make your pool deck feel like a relaxing getaway, dress it up with a cozy pergola and lounge furniture. This custom pergola is outfitted with a pillow-clad loveseat and two woven chairs for the perfect spot to relax between afternoon dips in the pool. You can also install an alfresco dining area to serve snacks and drinks for a day in the sun.

Another simple yet stylish way to dress up your pool deck is by replacing clunky metal railing with modern alternatives. Light-colored balusters look sleek and modern and won’t detract from your stunning pool views.

You can also dress up your above ground pool with a custom fence that ties into your existing backyard fencing for a seamless look. You can also opt for a more economical gate that allows you to control access to your backyard without altering the appearance of your home’s exterior.

A pool deck is a fun place to entertain guests, but it’s also a convenient spot for swimming laps and spending time with family members of all ages. If you have young kids, a deck can help prevent accidents and injuries by providing easier access to the pool and allowing parents to get in the water quickly if needed. It can also be a great spot for supervising kids while they play — giving you a bird’s eye view of the action without having to walk in the grass.