A pergola can really bring out the best in a yard, but there are so many different kinds to choose from, you may not know which one to go with. What makes pergolas such a great choice, however, is that they work on a tight budget. They’re cheaper and easier to install than many other backyard structures such as gazebos, for example. So how do you go about finding the right pergola kit for your yard?
Attached vs. Freestanding Pergolas
The first thing to consider with pergola kits is whether you want your pergola to be freestanding or attached. Attached pergolas extend directly from an exterior wall of your home; freestanding pergolas are away from the home. Most people who build attached pergolas use them as patio cover, appearing as an extension of an indoor room. Freestanding pergolas, on the other hand, can stand alone in a garden or cover a secluded seated area in your yard.
Sizes and Shapes
The size and shape of your pergola may be dependent on the size and shape of your yard. Some pergola kits are as small as 6 by 6 feet, while others are much larger. It wouldn’t do you much good to get a large pergola for a yard that’s too small. Most pergolas also come in standard square or rectangular shapes but there are some specialized styles as well, such as the brim pergola that is thin and freestanding, or the visor pergola that covers a small window or a door.
Materials
The material that you choose to build your pergola from will determine the overall costs of your pergola.
- Wood: most popular and provides a classic, rustic look that you can stain or paint to be any color that you want. Keep in mind that it has to be sealed every few years in order to prevent water damage and rot.
- Vinyl: durable and can last for the entire lifetime of your home. They’re pretty maintenance-free and just need a little power-washing to keep them clean. Vinyl tends to be more expensive, however.
- Metal: modern look, and doesn’t require much maintenance, depending on the kind of metal you use.
- Fiberglass: won’t rust or corrode, so it will last a very long time. It holds paint well but is one of the most expensive options on the market.
Shade Coverage
On its own, a pergola doesn’t provide much shade. But there are various kits that can provide more or less shade as you need. The more slats a pergola has and the closer they are together, the more shade that they’re going to provide. There are also accessories that can be paired with pergolas that can help to provide more shade.
How It’s Assembled
Not all pergola kits are the same, so don’t expect that the instructions of one can be used on another. Some have to be anchored into the ground with the anchors provided, or you’ll have to buy separate anchors from the store. It’s also best to keep in mind that you won’t be able to install a pergola yourself and will likely need an extra pair of hands.
Pergolas can bring a sense of romanticism to any garden, so if you’re looking to change things around in your yard, it wouldn’t hurt to give a pergola kit a try and see what it can add to your aesthetic.
