Bechtle Architects

A pergola is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space and can offer shade, add dimension, and create an appealing focal point. While it is usually freestanding, you can also anchor it to a home or other structure for added stability. There are many ways to customize your wooden pergola with roof, ranging from color and design to privacy options. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

The first step is deciding how you’d like to use your wooden pergola with roof. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to use it as a dining area, a reading nook, or a garden spot. Some even have curtains or plants hanging from the sides, and they can be lowered to provide privacy when necessary.

Another important factor is the material you choose for your wooden pergola with roof. There are many different types of wood to consider, and each one has its own unique look. Some common choices include pressure-treated wood, cedar, and redwood. Cedar is a great choice because it’s naturally rot-resistant and has a gorgeous golden color. However, it can be expensive and difficult to find in some areas. Pressure-treated wood is a less expensive option, but it’s not as attractive and can require more frequent staining.

If you’re building your pergola from scratch, it’s best to stain and seal it before you install it. This way, you can be sure to cover every nook and cranny. It’s also safer than trying to stain or seal the posts and boards after they are installed.

While some pergolas stick with a traditional beam style, you can create more interesting structures by adding walls and a solid roof. This allows you to have some privacy while still enjoying the beauty of nature outside.

Pergolas with a roof are also ideal for entertaining guests. They can be used to hold a large number of people for dinner parties or events. In addition, they can be built in the corner of a yard to provide more space for seating or other activities. They can also be built to overlook a pool or other water feature.

A wooden pergola with a roof can be lit up for a warm, cozy atmosphere at night. String lights and lanterns can be strung across the entire structure or hung from the beams. This makes it easier for you to continue your outdoor gatherings after the sun goes down. A wooden pergola with a roof is a great place to enjoy the company of friends and family while taking in the scenery of your backyard. McCoy’s offers a variety of cedar and treated lumber to build your own custom pergola for your backyard. Contact us today for more information. We’ll be happy to help you plan your project and answer any questions you may have. Our team of experts is available around the clock to assist you. We look forward to hearing from you soon! Call us at 1-800-832-6060 to learn more about our services.

A pergola is a beautiful, customizable outdoor structure that elevates any backyard, patio or pool deck. Crafted from aluminum, these structures are sturdy and durable, resistant to rust and corrosion, easy to maintain, and safe for use in the elements. In addition, they’re versatile and available in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles and materials. They can be crafted with a number of different types of louvers and come in both manual and motorized operation options, further elevating their capabilities.

An aluminium pergola with louvers is a great way to protect your outdoor space from the sun, but it’s important to keep in mind that they will need regular maintenance to ensure longevity. Inspecting them for signs of wear and tear is an essential step, particularly following harsh weather conditions like heavy rains or snowfall. The louvers should be cleaned frequently with a mild detergent and soft-bristled brush, making sure to rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any residue. They should also be inspected for cracks, dents or other damage that could impact their functionality and structural integrity.

Another important aspect to consider when selecting an aluminium pergola with louvers is the type of roofing system installed. While a fixed roof will provide full-time shade, an operable roof is ideal for homeowners who want to take advantage of the sunshine or cool breezes.

An aluminium structure with louvers can be fitted with a number of different roofing options, including canopy, clear polycarbonate or translucent fiberglass. While each has its own unique benefits, they all offer excellent water and UV protection, as well as increased aesthetic appeal for your backyard living area.

When choosing an aluminium pergola with louvers, it’s also essential to consider the frame and support columns. The construction material should be strong and robust, yet lightweight to prevent sagging over time. Additionally, the columns should be finished with a powder coating or paint to enhance their appearance and durability. Additionally, the fasteners should be made from stainless steel or lag screws for added strength and protection against the elements.

While the initial cost of an aluminium pergola with louvers may be slightly more than a similar structure made from wood, it is far more affordable in the long run thanks to their extended lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements. Plus, they are able to accommodate additional features that are not possible with traditional wooden structures, such as built-in lighting and cooling systems. Furthermore, using aluminum for your pergola is environmentally friendly, as the material can be recycled at any stage of its life cycle without losing its quality or function. The benefits of an aluminium pergola with louvers are extensive and should be considered carefully when planning your backyard oasis.

Garden decking is a great way to add a new area for entertaining or relaxing, define zones within your plot, and tie the garden together. It can work with any style of garden, and it’s easy to create a unique look by mixing and matching the materials.

Decks can be used as a pathway between different parts of the garden, or they can be incorporated into raised vegetable beds and planting areas. Adding a seat or small table will make the seating area more useful, and if you plan to build a deck around a large tree, a trellis can be built against it to provide shade and privacy.

Using decking as an alternative to paving is a great idea if you have lots of sloping ground in your garden. It can be used to create steps up or down to the garden, and it’s also a good option for stepping over a stream, pond, or dip in your garden. If you choose to do this, it’s important to have a safe and secure design in place, such as railings or steps.

Raised decks can be a stylish addition to your home, especially if you paint them in a classic colour like sage green or duck-egg blue. The wood can then blend in with the rest of your garden, creating a seamless effect that feels more part of your property than simply an extension of your garden.

Another big trend for 2022 is the use of tropical hardwoods such as ipe or cumaru. These are a more expensive choice than treated softwoods, but they’re extremely hard-wearing and naturally resistant to issues such as rot and insects. They don’t tend to accept staining very well, though, and so it’s best to opt for a natural finish, as seen in this stunning design.

If you don’t want to install a garden building but would love a spot to relax or entertain, a simple wooden shed can be incorporated into a decking scheme. This is ideal if you have a small or awkwardly shaped garden, as it won’t take up too much space.

Adding a pergola to your deck can give it a country feel, reminiscent of private English gardens. This is a stylish option that can be made even more impressive by planting climbing plants on the frame and lining the structure with wisteria or clematis. Alternatively, you can use vines to create a similar effect on a wall or fence.

A pergola is an overhead structure that provides shade while allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space. It’s also a great way to add beauty and character to an area. There are many ways to achieve pergola shade, from using climbing plants to a retractable canopy. Whatever you choose, it’s important to keep in mind that a pergola is not meant to offer the same kind of coverage as a patio roof or a solid-surface covered deck. Instead, a pergola is designed to be a trellis for vines or other plants, and offers shade from above with a beautiful design. The roof of a pergola is usually made from wood, but can be constructed with other materials as well.

Traditionally, pergolas have been used to train climbing plants such as grapes. They’re often positioned in the garden to provide shade for seating areas and to create a green retreat for homeowners and vintners alike. The trellis can also serve as the framework for a wisteria or even a climbing rose.

The amount of shade you can get from a pergola depends on the placement of its slats or lattice panels. By putting them closer together, you can minimize the amount of sunlight that can filter through. Another popular option is to use foliage as a cover, but this can be expensive and doesn’t always look appealing or provide the right amount of shade for outdoor seating areas.

For more control over how much sunlight or rain can enter your pergola, consider having a louvered roof installed. A louvered roof is similar to the sunroof in your car and can be adjusted throughout the day. It’s a more sophisticated solution than a standard fabric canopy, but it’s one that can really enhance the functionality of your pergola.

If you prefer a more traditional or rustic look, then a wood or reed cover is an excellent choice for your pergola. These covers can be built into the frame of the structure, or they can be hung from slats in the roof. They can also be used as a wall to protect a dining or lounging area from rain and wind.

A more modern pergola shade idea is to install a retractable canopy. These can be easily extended and retracted, giving you the flexibility of shading your backyard at the touch of a button. The type of fabric you select will depend on how much UV protection you need, and there are a variety of color and material options to choose from.

For a more budget-friendly option, you can buy shade cloth that is commonly used in greenhouses. This will do a good job of blocking sun, but it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as a natural or wood cover. In addition, it may not be suitable for wet climates. Ultimately, it’s best to work with a professional who can help you find the perfect solution for your pergola. They will be able to help you determine which material will best fit your lifestyle, weather conditions and aesthetic preferences.

A beautiful deck in your backyard is an oasis that allows you to relax, enjoy the fresh air and get in touch with nature. There are many materials to choose from for your decking and it is important to do some research before making a decision. This article is about millboard decking which has been on the market not for a long time but has quickly become popular due to its amazing qualities.

Millboard is a wood-free alternative that is made from polyurethane. It combines the rigidity and longevity of plastic with the suppleness of rubber and is very durable against damage. It can be used in places where other materials would not be able to survive, like near a swimming pool or in the rain.

The Lastane surface layer of millboard is non-porous so spillages won’t stain and can be easily wiped clean with standard household cleaners. It is also very slip resistant, even when wet, which makes it a great choice for areas where safety is a concern. Millboard decking can be stained or given a weathered look for an authentic wood appearance. It is available in a variety of colors and comes with edging and fascia boards that match, so the visual appearance is consistent throughout the area.

Another advantage of millboard is that it does not attract the natural phenomenon of algae, which causes a green coating on and around wooden surfaces. This can not only diminish their appearance but is a real hazard for people walking on them. In addition, it is safe to walk on when wet and does not produce splinters like natural wood.

The boards are moulded rather than extruded to ensure the fine details of the grain stand out, making them nearly indistinguishable from natural timber. Then they are hand-finished to make the nuances of the colour stand out. In combination with the detailed grain pattern and realistic colours, millboard is virtually indistinguishable from natural timber.

As there is no wood in the board, it does not support termite colonies like timber does, which can cause serious problems to your home. Also, it does not promote the growth of damp or rot that can affect timber, which again is a major problem for homes.

Millboard is easy to install and can be fixed with the manufacturer’s recommended screws, which are coated with a silicone spray before installation. No pre-drilling is required, and the screws are buried beneath the surface so only a small witness mark is left behind.

It can be installed over concrete, paving slabs, timber or steel frames. When installing it over a steel frame, we recommend using the Evolution framing system which is configured for joists at either 12- or 16-inch centers, which are very close to the spacing that the boards need. This allows the panels to be fastened tightly against the joists, providing maximum stability and maintaining the warranty. The frames can be mounted on the steel joists or anchored to the ground with the company’s Plas-Pro recycled-plastic sub-framing material.

A beautiful deck can make the backyard a perfect place to relax, entertain and enjoy the outdoors. However, the area underneath a deck is often left bare and unsightly, which can detract from its overall appeal. Fortunately, skirting can hide this open space while also adding style to the entire structure. Skirting comes in a variety of styles, so homeowners can find a solution that matches their taste and budget.

Many people choose to hire a professional to install their deck’s skirting. This can be an expensive investment, but the result is a finished look that can make the backyard more inviting. For those who wish to save money, the project can be done on a DIY basis by using materials purchased from local home improvement stores.

The most common choice for deck skirting is lattice panels, which are sold at most home improvement stores in panel sizes of 2’ by 8’ or 4’ by 8’. These framed and unframed panels can be cut to match the contour of a deck’s plane, making it easy for the homeowner to achieve the desired appearance. Lattice panels are also available in a variety of colors and designs to suit different tastes. For example, square cell panels may be used to create a more modern look, while diamond cells are preferred for more rustic styles.

Skirting can also help to discourage pests from establishing residence in the cool, covered and shady environment under a deck. Some homeowners add a door to the skirting’s design to provide an inconspicuous storage space for yard tools and other items. In addition, a deck with skirting that includes a latching door can also function as an attractive screened-in porch.

Another benefit of having a deck with a skirt is that it acts as an effective barrier against the dirt and debris that often blows under a deck. This debris can pile up over time, and it can be difficult or impossible to pick up, especially if children or pets have access to the area. Skirting will prevent the accumulating of trash, which will make the surrounding yard look better and can even protect the foundation of the house from damage by insects and animals.

The open underside of a deck is also tempting to kids and pets, who love to crawl around the joists to play in the crevices. This can be a safety hazard, as they can bump their heads on the joists or get caught on nails and screws that may be sticking out of the deck boards. A skirting system will prevent these hazards by making the area under the deck off-limits. Skirting can be made from a variety of materials, including wood. Simple wood planks installed horizontally like shiplap can be an appealing option, and pressure-treated lumber will weather into a warm gray that coordinates with many color schemes. The best option, though, is to use a material that allows ventilation beneath the deck. Without adequate airflow, deck boards can expand and contract unevenly, causing them to rot over time.

In Palm Beach and throughout South Florida, maximizing time outside can require a mixture of sun and shade spaces. A pergola can play a major role in creating that ideal environment for outdoor enjoyment. This is especially true of the newer, corner-design versions of these backyard structures. Typically built from a series of posts and beams that form a roof, these types of backyard pergolas are easy to assemble and make a wonderful place to set up a table and chairs for entertaining, or simply to read and relax.

While most people think of traditional, square or rectangular pergolas when they envision these backyard beauties, there are many other styles and designs to consider, including this unique triangle-shaped option. These triangular pergolas feature three sides instead of four, allowing them to fit in almost any backyard space. They also offer a more interesting visual impact than a standard pergola, as their unique shape is sure to impress guests and neighbors.

For those who want to add a little extra flair to their backyard, this pergola design allows for the addition of billowing curtains, which can be tied back to let in air and sunshine, or left down for a bit of romance and privacy. String lights, wooden patio chairs and potted plants can be used to add even more color and comfort to the area.

Another great way to add visual interest to a pergola is to install a fan design on the roof, which takes advantage of its triangular shape. This can be done by cutting a V-shaped notch in each of the four rafters that make up the roof. The notches can then be fitted with a fan-shaped piece of wood that can be easily locked into place.

Adding latticework panels to the side of a pergola can help to increase the amount of shade that it provides. This can be particularly useful in a sunny backyard, where it is easy to overheat and get dehydrated. This style of pergola also gives homeowners the opportunity to grow climbing flowers and vines up the side of their structure.

As with any backyard structure, it is important to follow local codes when building a pergola. This includes obtaining any necessary permits, as well as consulting with local utility companies to have any underground obstructions marked. Once all of the necessary preparation is complete, it’s time to build! Start by checking the ground to make sure it is level. Then, mark where each of the post bases will be positioned and pre-drill them for lag bolts.

Before you begin to assemble the pergola frame, stain all of the wood pieces. This can be a time-consuming process, but it is much easier than staining the structure once it’s been assembled.

Once the structure is built, plant climbing vines on two of its sides. These will eventually grow to a height that creates a nice shaded area underneath the pergola. For this example, we adapted the corner pergola plans to work with our client’s specific space.

If you’re a homeowner looking for a way to add more charm and style to your outdoor space, a residential pergola is the perfect solution. A pergola is a shade structure that’s not attached to your house or fence and provides a great place to lounge and commune with nature. It’s also the perfect setting to host a barbeque or a small wedding ceremony, and can even be used as an inviting entryway into your garden.

While there are some pergola kits available for home use, it’s best to consult a licensed contractor that specializes in these types of structures to get the most out of your investment. This will ensure that the pergola is designed and built in a way that’s appropriate for your property and meets all local regulations. The professional can also help you customize the design to match your personal preferences and needs.

Depending on the size and complexity of your pergola, you’ll likely need to spend between $5,000 and $25,000 to build one. However, a skilled contractor can provide you with several options that will allow you to stay within your budget while still creating a beautiful and functional structure.

Pergolas are often built from wood, but other materials such as metal and vinyl can also be used. In general, it’s important to choose a material that will complement the existing decor and architecture of your property, including the colors and finishes of other hardscape elements like paths or walls. Additionally, it’s a good idea to take into account how the pergola will look at different times of the day and in various weather conditions.

For example, if you live in an area where it snows frequently, you may want to consider adding a roof to your structure to prevent snow and rain from collecting on its louvers and causing damage. The same is true for areas where high winds are common.

Another important factor to consider is the amount of shade and shelter you’ll need from the sun. While some homeowners prefer a more open structure that allows for more light and air movement, others appreciate the sturdiness and privacy that a covered pergola offers.

It’s also possible to add more shade by installing climbing plants on your pergola. While it will take a full planting season before they are mature enough to provide coverage, the result will be an extra layer of protection from the sun’s harsh rays.

In addition to providing a focal point that draws the eye and sets your backyard apart from the rest of your neighborhood, a well-designed and properly constructed pergola will also increase the value of your property. If you’re considering adding a pergola to your yard, contact the team at Leisure Time Designs today to learn more about our services and to request an estimate. We’re proud to offer a variety of high-quality shade solutions, including custom pergolas. We look forward to helping you create a beautiful and welcoming outdoor retreat for your family, friends, and neighbors!

A floating deck may sound like something straight out of Aladdin’s magic carpet ride, but it’s an ideal way to expand a home’s outdoor living space. It can serve as a place to read or sip lemonade and relax, a spot to dine with friends, or a buffer zone between indoor living areas and the garden or back yard. Aside from a little extra planning and work, building a floating deck is similar to installing a conventional wood or composite deck. Unlike a deck that’s attached to your house, though, this type of freestanding structure doesn’t usually merit different tax regulations or require special permits, since it’s not permanently attached to the house.

Because it’s not secured to the house, a floating deck can also protect it from harsh weather conditions that might damage an attached deck or cause structural issues for the house itself. Additionally, because it doesn’t need to be anchored to the ground and can’t pull away, a floating deck isn’t as expensive to maintain as a traditional deck.

While many people choose to build a floating deck from scratch, the idea is also great for those with an existing backyard patio or deck that they wish to upgrade. In this case, a floating deck can be made from repurposed materials such as railroad ties or concrete blocks.

Before beginning to build, it’s important to assess the terrain where you want to locate your new deck. Then, carefully level and remove the grass/rocks from the area. Next, lay down deck blocks to create a base for your frame. Deck blocks are cement-filled squares that can support the weight of your deck without the need for in-ground concrete piers. Using deck blocks will reduce the risk of hitting underground services such as water or sewage pipes, which can be costly to repair.

Once your deck frame is in place, you’ll need to install the floor joists. Use a framing square to ensure the joists are even, and then fasten them to each block with 3 1/2-inch deck screws. To add extra strength and stability to your new floating deck, you can also install rim joists between the floor joists.

Some municipalities require floating decks to be anchored, but this can be done quickly and easily with shed anchor kits that attach to joists in multiple locations. It’s a good idea to anchor your deck anyway, though, because high winds can lift even a small freestanding structure.

Once your deck is in place, you can style it with furniture and plants to make it a cozy place for relaxing or dining. You can even add a hammock to while away the day, or create a shady spot to enjoy the blooming garden beneath you. To really bring the design together, apply a stain or sealant to protect your floating deck from the elements. This will keep it looking good and lasting longer.

Composite decking has become very popular over the past few years as people are looking for an alternative to wood. Its eco-friendly nature, resemblance to wood, low maintenance, and longevity make it the perfect choice for a deck. There are many different brands to choose from and choosing the best one can be a daunting task. We have put together a list of the top composite decking along with some tips to help you find the best one for your needs.

The most important factor in determining the best composite decking is its lifespan. Most quality brands will provide a 25-year warranty covering the structure and finish of the deck. This will cover damage from harsh weather, stains and fading from sun exposure, insect infestation, and general deterioration of the decking boards. Warranties for composite decking are generally transferable when the home is sold which can add resale value to the property.

While the initial cost of composite decking is higher than wood, it will save homeowners and builders money over time as it will require less maintenance. Composite decking also has a more pleasing aesthetic and does not splinter like other materials do. Its ability to withstand moisture is another important factor as some areas are more prone to rainy climates.

When it comes to the durability of composite decking, Trex is the clear leader. The company uses a combination of recycled plastic, sawdust and reclaimed wood to produce their boards. The end result is a material that is highly durable, water-resistant, and able to resist mildew and fungus. The company even offers a range of different finishes to match your home’s style.

As an added bonus, Trex has a comprehensive line of accessories to help with the installation process. This includes a wide variety of hidden fastener options designed specifically for use with their composite decking. In fact, using non-Trex fasteners can void your warranty. So don’t be tempted to save a few bucks and ruin your new deck by buying non-compliant screws.

Another brand that is a great option for those who want to go green with their decking is TimberTech. This company has a strong focus on sustainability and their composite decking is made with up to 95 percent recycled materials, including plastic and reclaimed wood. They also have a unique patented splinter-free design that makes the decking safer and more comfortable to walk on.

The other big factor in determining the best composite decking for you is your budget. Prices for composite decking vary widely depending on the specific product and the amount of customization you desire. The more custom features you add, the higher the price tag will be.

The final factor to consider when selecting the best composite decking is if the product meets local code requirements. Most retailers should know this but you can also check with the manufacturer or a third party service such as Interket. They can usually provide a Code Compliance Research Report (CCRR) that will show that the product meets code and is safe to use.