The coronavirus pandemic forced many people to spend most of their time indoors. If your property didn’t have an outdoor relaxation space, such as a pergola, you probably had the worst time of your life.
The thing is, nobody likes spending the whole day indoors. Even if you’re watching a top-rated TV show or catching up with your favourite sports events, there’ll come a time when you’ll feel the urge to go outside and enjoy the sunshine and some fresh air. This is why you need a pergola in your backyard.
If you’re wondering how to construct a pergola, this article has you covered.
Check the Regulations
Before you break ground, contact local authorities to see if they permit the construction of pergolas. One phone call is enough to let you know the documentation you need and the building code.
If you fail to consult the authorities, you might have to demolish the structure later, resulting in a significant loss.
Get a Quotation
Whether you hire a professional or build it yourself, you will need a quotation before putting up a pergola. Enlist in the services of a quantity surveyor to know how much material you require for your project.
Identify a Location
Once you get a quotation, the next step involves choosing a location for your pergola. Ideally, it should stand on a spot where you can enjoy the sunshine and a cool breeze as you relax. This means that it should be away from tall trees and other vegetation.
Another reason to build your pergola away from trees is that it can create a shade over them. This can hinder their growth, especially if they’re still young.
Choose a Style
It’s worth noting that a pergola can serve as the focal point of your outdoor space. It’ll be the first thing people see when they enter your compound, meaning that you have to pay attention to its outlook.
When choosing a style, ensure that it aligns with the rest of the buildings in your home. For instance, if your home is vintage, then your pergola should have a timeless style. Implementing something different will make the pergola look out of place.
Size
The amount of space you have in your backyard dictates the best size of a pergola you can build. Generally, the larger the space, the bigger the structure.
Also, rectangular pergolas are better suited for vast spaces, while circular and square structures are perfect for confined areas.
Material
You have several options to choose from when it comes to building a pergola. Some of the popular picks include wood, metal, and vinyl.
Despite being affordable and readily accessible, wood isn’t the best choice. It is susceptible to damage by termites and weather elements. It also requires high maintenance.
Metal, on the other hand, is more robust and durable than wood. It’s also available in a variety of styles. However, it also requires painting to prevent rusting.
Though quite expensive, vinyl is the perfect material to use. It’s durable, robust, and requires little maintenance. More importantly, it is visually appealing.
Wrapping Up
Even if you’re working from home, you don’t have to spend the entire day indoors. Follow the steps mentioned above to construct a pergola and make the most out of your outdoor space.
Read Also:
The Pros and Cons of Timber Decking
