Introduction
What used to be called a patio roof is now often called a pergola – it provides protection from the sun, rain and wind while expanding the living space of your home. A large architectural structure, pergolas consist of rafters, beams and posts and can be attached or detached from the house. Although opinions differ on what distinguishes this gazebo, a gazebo is usually free-standing and has a pitched roof, while a pergola has a flat roof. The terms tree and pergola are often used interchangeably, but a tree is more than a structure used to support grapes or guide pedestrians in the garden.
If you have a patio or deck, a roof-like structure will extend the life of the garden structure if it is spent outside entertaining guests or relaxing. As outdoor living spaces become more and more popular, it can increase the value of a home.
What is a pergola?
A wooden pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of posts that support a roof truss of beams and rafters. This roof truss can be left open or covered to create an area protected from the elements. Pergolas can be freestanding or attached to a house.
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DIY Pergola Project Options and Considerations
Before jumping into a garden pergola, consider the following:
- Orientation: North, south, east, or west-facing.
- Materials: These can include hardwood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass.
- Budget: The two most significant expenses will be labor and materials. If your budget is limited (and that’s most of us), this is where resourcefulness, smart planning, DIY skills, and creativity come into play.
- Contractor vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Will it be a do-it-yourself project, or will you hire a contractor? A prefab pergola kit is an alternative.
- Building codes: Also, who is going to design it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of a building inspector or planning commissioner. Your local government officials should have guidelines on setbacks and height restrictions.
- Zoning laws: Do you need to obtain city, county, or regional zoning laws and approvals? Depending on where you live, this process can take a long time, so stay on top of it if you want the project done within the next few months or even years. Committees sometimes meet sporadically, and applications can fall through the cracks.
- Attached or standalone: Do you want the pergola attached to your deck or standing alone in the yard with nothing but landscaping around it?
We’ve found 6 wooden pergola ideas that represent different styles, sizes, materials, and budgets sure to inspire you.
1. Cover It Up
Pergolas provide plenty of shade, but your installed location may require you to purchase a cover for the top of the structure. This pergola by Allie Wilson chose a bamboo wall to keep unwanted debris from falling into her backyard paradise.
2. Extend Your Porch Space
Adding a pergola with roof to your deck or patio doesn’t just provide much-needed shade. but also architectural interest. This all-black version is perfect for a wooden porch and gives the impression of a larger-than-life outdoor area. A simple bench and hanging swing attached to a single beam complete the look.
3. Opt for Personalized and Private
We love how this covered pergola almost feels like its own space. While many pergolas usually adhere to traditional beams with an open space between them and a lattice or slatted top, it is not unheard of to add walls to the structure for privacy. In addition, you can add curtains that can be drawn when you need privacy, or left open when you want to enjoy a beautiful day.
4. Use It as the Perfect Garden Entrance
Pergolas are often found in gardens. and it’s easy to see why. With a strong structure surrounded by greenery, Lady Landscape’s stunning layout looks like a home. A pergola acts as an entrance that leads you to a simple wooden patio and some comfortable chairs from which to enjoy the garden views.
5. Add Decorative Screens for Personality
Adding screens and walls can add flair to your structure pergolas, but they can also add a distinct personality. This cozy nook is already making a name for itself with pink and white cushions, a bench and plants on either side, but the leaf-patterned screens really set it apart. Screens can be attached to walls as shown here, but can also be mounted on top of a structure pergolas to provide shade and create great shadow patterns when the sun shines.
6. Make It Freestanding for Outdoor Dining
This freestanding a pergola takes your outdoor dining room to a new level. The wooden pergola grid mimics a similar pattern to the square tiles throughout the courtyard, creating a clear and designated space for people to gather.
