Did you know that the pergola dates back to ancient Egypt? This simple and timeless outdoor design feature consists of a framework of vertical posts or pillars that support slats (also called cross beams or rafters) and sometimes a sturdy open lattice. While pergolas certainly look beautiful, you might doubt their functionality. Do they actually provide substantial shade? Why does anyone choose a pergola over an awning or a fixed roof? If you’re curious but still uncertain, scroll down to explore the many benefits of a pergola.
Benefits of a Pergola
Shade in the Warmer Months
Somewhat like sitting beneath a tree that’s losing its leaves, a pergola doesn’t provide complete shade. It will help you stay cool in the spring and summer, however, while still allowing breezes to flow freely. A professional can help you determine the best size, spacing, and orientation of slats to maximize the shade available. You can also add plants or accessories to increase the shade: climbing plants (ivy, wisteria, clematis, etc), reed mats, bamboo shades, strips of all-weather fabric woven through the slats, full retractable covers, and more.
A Home for Plants
If you’ve got a green thumb, you’ll be pleased to know that pergolas provide a perfect home for all sorts of plants. You could hang potted plants from the rafters, encourage climbing plants to stretch up the vertical posts and through the cross beams, or house plants beneath the pergola that require partial shade.
An Airy, Open Quality
With their open slats and latticework, pergolas have an airy elegance. They offer less obstructed views than some other outdoor architectural features. They also allow breezes to pass through, and you can glimpse the sky through their cross beams.
Privacy Available
While pergolas boast a beautifully open structure, you can also add accessories to the frame if you want to boost privacy or block out unwanted views. You could add curtains to the sides or a retractable cover to the top. And if your pergola incorporates latticework, add climbing plants for more privacy.
Defined Space
A pergola can create a defined space in your yard for relaxation and entertainment, whether it’s an independent structure or an extension of your home. This is especially helpful if your yard lacks a patio, porch, or deck. Simply purchasing a pergola creates a defined living space, just as a porch would. And you can use this defined space however you like: for outdoor dining, for reading, for doing the morning crossword, for chatting with your family, etc. To further enhance the space, consider adding lighting or speakers. You could also hang streamers or bunting on your pergola for special celebrations!
Beauty & Architectural Flair
Pergolas are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs, in both modern and traditional styles. No matter which style you choose, pergolas inherently feel elegant and charming and often provide a Mediterranean aura. They can improve the appearance of your yard, making it more visually appealing. As an added bonus, they may appeal to home buyers if you choose to move, potentially increasing the value of your home.
Durable Materials Available
Worried about maintenance? Don’t be! These days, pergolas are available in reliable, long-lasting materials that require no maintenance and won’t crack, split, or warp. Instead of traditional wood, which requires a lot of work, you can find aluminum-based pergolas that resemble wood but provide far more longevity.
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Now that you know the many benefits of a pergola, are you looking for the perfect pergola to add to your backyard? Liberty Home Solutions is here to help. We offer a line of beautiful pergolas and lattice patio covers that are embossed with a rough-hewn deep driftwood texture that mimics the natural beauty of real wood while avoiding all the maintenance and durability issues associated with wood. Plus, we use Kynar coating, which offers superior durability and resists stains, salt spray, color fading, and more. With our help, you can design the perfect custom pergola for your home โ complete with a lifetime warranty! When you’re ready to get started, simply request a free quote. We look forward to working with you!