Everything You Need To Know About Pergola Kits
A Pergola kits are definitely a great addition to any outdoor area and most home owners would agree to this. However, for those who are not familiar with pergolas and pergola kits; they’ll be wondering what exactly a pergola is and what makes it a good choice. Here’s everything you need to know about the Pergola and how they are sold (as pergola kits).
What is a Pergola
A pergola is a freestanding structure attached to a home. Originally, pergolas are made to support the climbing plants as they are made with supporting columns with angled beams overhead–plants could grow around and up these beams. However, the modern-day pergola is more of a roof structure that protects the area beneath it.
Most pergola kits are made of timber, making them perfect for outside use, but it could also be made of aluminum and steel, and it is roofed with different materials, such as Zincalume, colorbond, polycarbonate, thatch, angled battens, shade cloth, and even plants. Pergola kits can also be made of PVC or plastic materials. The type of the material and size of the structure are key drivers in price. As for the pergola itself, it’s usually rectangular in shape, but it could also be hexagonal, square, octagonal, and there are some instances that it can also be circular.
When interested in buying, Amazon has a lot of pergola kits for sale, here are a few. But keep reading below for my great information first!
Adding Pergola to One’s Home
For those who are interested in adding a pergola to their home, the first thing they ought to know is that, there will be a need to check with local council first in order to determine if there are any restrictions you should be aware of. With that, you’ll be able to determine the type of pergola you really want for your home–either one that’s attached to the main roof or something that’s completely free standing. This will greatly depend on your purpose and needs. Aside from that, your budget will also play a huge role in considering the type of materials to be used on your roof or structure.
For those who are on a tight budget, treated timbers are considered to be the most affordable one and they could last for a very long time as long as proper care would be given. on the other hand, although other metal options are usually on the expensive side, they’re known to last for a number of years and requires less maintenance. Practically speaking, during your search for the best pergola try to focus on the type of weather your pergola should withstand, because you have to make sure that it will be able to endure rain, storms, and wind. This is practically one of the most important things to think about when choosing for a roofing material.
Furthermore, due to the fact that pergolas are seen as the extension of one’s home, it’s important to take into account the design and layout of the garden and home when trying to decide what kind of design would be ideal to your pergola. As much as possible, use colors and materials that will easily complement with the home and blend well with the garden. Don’t forget to think about the shapes too. A rectangular shape is perfect for those who want to follow the layout of the house, but in some cases a circular or rectangular shape will be usually work better, especially if you’re thinking of placing the pergola away from the house or in the garden.
Types of Pergo Kits Available
Just like what has been mentioned earlier, if you want to improve your backyard’s look to make it seem more sophisticated, then building a pergola to accompany the patio or deck would definitely be ideal, it’ll automatically add some charm and uniqueness to your home.
These simple garden features function as breathable covers for almost any kind of walkway, as well as backyard space. Furthermore, it doesn’t really matter if you want to incorporate some fashionable source of shade for your relaxation area, or your purpose is to give your garden a shelter that also makes a statement at the same time, rest assured that pergolas can be your perfect choice.
You also ought to know that there’s a wide range to styles and materials used in making pergolas, and this only implies that you have a good chance of finding the type of material that will perfectly complement with whatever is needed to be covered and protected. Here are some of the basic types of pergola material that would increase your backyard’s appeal.
Outdoor pergola
For those who are just starting with their search for the perfect pergola for outdoor purposes, you might be surprised to know that although they don’t provide much protection against the rain, they still work efficiently in protecting the user against the sun and it provides ample shade at the same time.
A lot of people install pergola in order to have the privilege of relaxing outdoors in a place where the ambience is fresh, inviting, comfortable, but there’s still privacy at the same time. These are just some of the most common characteristics that motivate people to spend more time outdoors, because it’s definitely better than what indoor living has to offer.
Modern-day pergolas are also known to offer rain protection– a highly desirable feature a lot of homeowners are looking for
Aluminum Pergola
For those who are worried about the affordability, than it’s ideal to opt for an aluminum-based based pergola kit, because they’re usually on the cheapest side. Aside from that, from a material standpoint, aluminum pergolas don’t really require a lot of maintenance because they’re not porous. This only implies that they’ll never rot and would be able to withstand almost any weather condition.
Aluminum kits are also designed in a way where the installation process wouldn’t require a lot of effort at all, that even first time owners would be able to install their pergola with ease. Furthermore, even those who are planning on installing them on their own, rest assured that this can easily be done, mainly because aluminum frames and beams are extremely lightweight, that they’re the most preferred option of those who do DIYs.
It’s perfect for patios directly linked to the house, and aluminum pergolas are definitely recommended for those who are in search of an attached pergola structure.
Vinyl Pergola kits
Vinyl Pergola kits Vinyl pergola kits have been available since the ’80s and just like the aluminum pergolas, their main advantage is that they’re also the least expensive pergolas available. Back then, vinyl pergola kits used to have a shorter life than fiber glass and wood. It’s not advisable for extreme weather conditions because it easily shrinks and expands with the sudden changes in weather temperature. This leads to warping and cracking. Not just that, the only color available back then was one color which is white.
Times have changed and everything has improved, to the point that a lot of homeowners now believe that vinyl is one of the most ideal materials to use for outdoor background structures because of its versatility. Today, vinyl pergola kits even come with sun-protective additives that extend its usefulness. Likewise, vinyl fence and other outdoor structures also come with multi-year warranty that it can last for more than 20-years. Check out pricing of vinyl pergola kits here:
Cedar Pergola
Believe it or not, there’s a lot of cedar pergola kits being sold each year than other types of pergolas there is. Cedar is considered as the most common type of wood used for all types of background structures, such as pergolas, gazebos, decorative bridges, sheds, furniture, and the like.
Though, unlike aluminum and vinyl, cedar pergolas are slightly expensive and are not aesthetically pleasing when new. It is yellowish in color, that a lot would rather have redwood pergolas instead. After quite some time, both woods turn to gray, giving it a more aged appearance.
For those who are planning to paint their pergola, then cedar would be a good option, because it takes the paint better and is more affordable than redwood.
Cedar Pergola Kit pricing can be seen here:
Patio pergola
Patio pergolas are usually more expensive because of the additional materials used in making them and the craftsmanship required to complete these. Roofs era very heavy and therefore, expect to pay a lot for shipping. As for the design, this one is more beneficial because it offers more shade against the sun and could also be the perfect shelter against the rain.
Patio pergolas usually have the look that appeals to a lot of people, because it’s more solid and inviting at the same time– in fact, it is very inviting for visitors that they’ll get so tempted to relax.
Retractable Shade Pergola Kits
Those who would rather not spring for the roof, but still want to enjoy optimal shade, then the retractable roof pergola may be ideal for you These kits have the canopy specifically made to fit with the outdoor structure efficiently. This canopy can be moved back and forth, depending on the needs of the user.
These models are usually advertised as “retractable pergolas,” but some classify them as “retractable shade pergola…Although there’s a slight difference with the name, both follows the same concept.
Wood Pergola Kits
Aside from adding to the home’s overall value, wooden pergolas are natural and elegant looking– perfect for those who want their backyard to look classy and sophisticated.
For those who consider themselves as DIV pros, then you’ll be thrilled to know that wood pergola kits give you the opportunity of crafting your backyard in a number of ways you can think of
A lot of wooden pergolas come in kits with pre-drilled pieces– reducing the need to install other wooden structures during the process. That means the home owner would spend less on labor, and will be able to enjoy quality time in his backyard instead.
It doesn’t matter if it’s for decorative purposed, or you just want to shelter your garden from the rays of the sun, a wooden pergola is one of the most useful materials that you can consider.
How Much Does a DIV Pergola Kit Cost?
There are different types or pergola kits to choose from and each one its advantages, disadvantages, and cost associated with it
Pergola kits could cost anywhere from $800, but it could also go up and as much as $10,000 or more. This would usually depend on the materials you’re going to use, the size of the pergola, and the quality of product you’re looking for.
Truth be told, you really don’t have much to expect if you’re not willing to invest a good amount of cash. Although there are a lot of cheap pergolas available, most of these don’t have the features to last for a long time which means, you’ll just end up wasting your money, if you want a long lasting pergola. But it’s up to you, you saw the other Amazon buttons, but here is a link to see pricing and pergolas of all shapes and sizes, this button leads to a general search for all pergola kits:
The Sizes Pergolas Come in
Pergolas are available in a number of sizes– it could be really small, and it could also be massive. Though, the most common size is around 8ft x 8ft to 12ft x 12ft. Basically, the bigger the pergola is, the more expensive it’s going to be Those who want to use their pergolas for parties or any form of social gathering, the curved ones are highly recommended.
Why You Should Consider a DIY Pergola Kit
Based on experience, a pergola kit is perfect for those who are on a tight budget or for those who don’t want to spend a lot. Pergola kits usually come pre-cut and all you have to do is install them. No need to measure the posts or cut it depending on your needed size. Thus, you’ll have more time to focus on important things, such as installing it
With the use of a DIY kit, it’s possible to save hours and times, before; the chances of committing mistakes are very unlikely to happen. Everything is already provided and all you have to do is construct it.
How Much Time Does It Take to Build a Pergola
Most pergola kits usually take at least 4 to 5 hours to construct, but for those who are experienced in doing so, it will definitely require lesser time For novices, it’s always advisable to start early in order to finish the construction before the day ends. See below video for an example of a pergola being built.
Keep in mind though, there’s no need to rush things. Just make sure to read the instructions carefully before you even start. Likewise, make it a point that you really know what you’re doing. It’s not advisable to start clueless and stop half way, because this will just be a waste of time and money.
Final Words
We love pergola kits. A Pergola is a garden feature that offers a shades area constructed with the use of pillars with cross beams attached to the top. They could be clad with a roofing or left bare, depending on one’s preference, but often are left open air. However, choosing the right pergola isn’t as easy as it may sound. There’s a number of factors to consider and it’s important to weigh each one of these. The things that were discussed above are just some of the most important things to consider , and by being familiar with those, choosing the perfect pergola for your home would be easier. One thing is for certain, regardless is you consider buying one of the many pergola kits available in the market, or you pay a professional to install one for you (or create and build your own) we feel confident that your outdoor space will be the better for it. Enjoy this youtube video on a home made pergola kit, a fellow who purchased his own wood and treated it and built it. Save a lot of money and it looks great… but its a full couple of week project (not just 15 time lapsed minutes!).
