All About Pergolas

Choosing the right pergola for your backyard

Posted on

30 October 2016

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Pergolas have long been a staple in garden architecture due to their decorative and practical functions. Ancient Romans called them “pergulas”- covered archways through which they could stroll under cool green shade. At its core, the pergola is simply a shaded area or walkway that provides a temporary refuge from the sun while you enjoy the outdoors. In execution, however, they come in many different builds and materials, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some things to consider before installing your very own garden pergola:

Beautify your backyard with the gabled or open-top pergola

The ideal garden structures are those that can be easily integrated into the majesty of their natural surroundings, as is the case for both gabled and open top pergolas. Gabled Pergolas are notable for their triangular-shaped roof, which can be further decorated by hanging vines or cloth for providing shade and a stylish look. Open top pergolas share this aesthetic advantage while taking it a step further towards a Mediterranean feel. The downside for both these options is that the sloping roof structure of the garbled pergola makes it structurally weak in the face of strong winds, while open top pergolas leave you exposed to the elements.

Keep it simple with the sail pergola

These unconventional pergolas are quickly gaining popularity due to their simplicity and affordability. As their name implies, sail pergolas are made by stretching a mast over several irregular sized poles. Because of their highly portable and DIY-friendly structures, sail pergolas can take on many different shapes, depending on the positioning and heights of the poles. While they might not be as tough or provide the same level of protection as solid roofs do, most sails offer protection from the unforgiving sun. And as an added bonus they filter the light to mirror the colour of the mast, creating a special mood for those gathered underneath it.

For ease of access, pick a pitched pergola

Pitched pergolas are attached to homes by their roof, and may be separated by sliding doors. These can be easily accessed from the house and can serve as extensions of the living or dining room, making them ideal for dining outdoors or entertaining guests.

If longevity is your priority, settle for steel

Steel pergolas are extremely sturdy and damage-resistant, so long as they are given the proper protection from rust and corrosion. Despite being relatively more expensive than wood, steel costs less in the long run as it requires less maintenance and replacement.