Pergolas Are a Great Addition to Northwest Arkansas Backyards
Pergolas are shady garden structures whose beginnings date back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome and were common features in early Renaissance gardens throughout Europe. Their main function was to supply shade on pathways, terraces, or pools. The earlier versions were frequently built from stone pillars with wooden cross-beams with a lattice roofing system. It was common to see ivy, grapevines, or other climbing plants winding around the wood, and filling the open areas between the lattice. Today they are often built from pressure-treated wood or cedar. The numerous varieties of maintenance-free lumber products are also commonly used. They give the look of wood, but never require painting, resist rot, peeling, and fading, and are available in a variety of colors.
Pergolas make a striking accent to any landscaping theme; not only are they captivating, but functional too. Depending upon their size, attached pergolas often end up being an extension of the main house and may be used for entertaining, dining, or as a getaway or peaceful oasis for reading or enjoying early morning coffee.
Concepts for Pergolas:
1. The most common variation is an easy post-construction with wood cross-pieces or lattice for the roof and used to cover a deck or patio area. It can be painted or stained and accented with lighting, plants, and other accessories.
2. Install your pergola along the entire length of your home, similar to an awning. It can extend out farther at different points to develop interest and seating areas underneath.
3. Use it to cover a hot tub.
4. Place in a random area of the backyard to develop a shady area to get away from the afternoon sun. Add a nice little bench, and plant climbing roses or other fragrant vines close by. Cover it with tin or shingles to create extra protection.
5. Create road appeal by placing your pergola over a front patio in place of a standard roof.
Paint or stain it the exact same color as your shutters or house trim. It won’t completely stay out of the rain, but it will provide a certain amount of shelter, and produce an impressive entryway.
6. Instead of the standard lattice look on the roof, use strips of bamboo positioned side by side. It produces extra shade and gives the structure a twig furniture appearance.
7. Your pergola is the perfect place to let those flashy vines grow wild; creating a thick natural canopy. Vines that work well consist of Hops, Wisteria, Jade, Grapes, Morning Glory, Cypress, and numerous climbing roses. It’s likewise an excellent location to grow vegetables such as peas or Scarlett Runner Beans.
8. Give your pergola some style by including architectural accents such as a curved top and round wood column supports, or create a top that flows with your home’s rooflines.
9. Dress up the open sides with outside material curtains, bamboo shades, or a manicured Boxwood hedge.
10. Use your pergola to create a garden with your favorite shade-loving plants. You might wish to attempt Hostas, Bleeding Hearts, Yellow Corydalis, Bigroot Geranium, Monkshood, or Lungwort.
11. Use rough logs and unstained beams to give your pergola a rustic appearance. Weave willow or alder branches on the roof and display your twig furniture below.
12. A pergola is best for that hanging swing, chair, or hammock. Add a little table, a cool beverage, a great book, and you have the perfect recipe for a lazy afternoon.
13. Provide shade and protection for an outdoor kitchen or barbeque area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pergolas?
- What Materials are Best for Pergolas? Homeowners often inquire about the best materials for building pergolas. Standard options include wood (such as cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber) for a natural look, aluminum for durability and low maintenance, and vinyl for its longevity and easy upkeep. The choice depends on budget, desired aesthetics, and climate considerations.
- Do Pergolas Provide Shade? Many individuals want to know if pergolas offer adequate shade. While pergolas provide some shade, especially with climbing plants or retractable canopies, they are primarily designed to create an open-air space with partial shade. Homeowners can enhance shade by incorporating shade sails, curtains, or adjustable louvers into their pergola design.
- Can Pergolas be Attached to a House? Prospective pergola owners often wonder if they can attach the structure directly to their home. While securing a pergola to a house is possible, careful consideration must be given to structural integrity, water drainage, and building codes. Consulting with a professional contractor or structural engineer is recommended to ensure proper installation and compliance with local regulations.
Call Bella Vista Contractors at 479-903-1630
We serve Bella Vista, Bentonville, Pea Ridge, Centerton, and Rogers with pergolas, remodeling, house painting, deck and fence building, plus much more. If you have a construction or remodeling project call us today!
