Top Tips When Building Pergolas

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Colin's Construction Blog: Building a House

Hi, there! My name is Colin. Last year, I finally completed some construction work on my home. For many years, I had been meaning to do lots of jobs around the place. I wanted to install a new bathroom downstairs. However, I had no idea how to do this so I avoided everything. My wife continued to complain about the lack of progress so I eventually contacted a team of contractors. A plumber, an electrician and a construction team visited my home and completed the work. As they did so, they taught me an awful lot about the best way to complete the job. I hope you find my blog useful.

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Top Tips When Building Pergolas

26 November 2019
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog


A pergola is the perfect place to spend weekends with your family. Besides, it is one of the best return-on-investment projects you could have on your landscape. Below is a short guide on the various considerations you should make when building a pergola. 

Design

The structure should be durable. As such, consider pressure-treated wood that is pest- and weather-resistant. Below are some of the things that will influence the pergola's design.

1. Intended Use

How will you use the pergola? If you plan to hold family gatherings in the pergola, you may need a grill, outdoor refrigerator and entertainment appliances such as an audio system. Besides, you will need comfortable seats and potted flowers. A covered pergola can be used during hot and cold months. 

2. Appeal

Improve the design of the structure by planting vines around it. What floor will you use on the pergola? Slate, tiles, concrete, and interlocking pavers are excellent materials for your pergola. You also lay concrete slabs on the layer of grass inside the pergola. 

3. Size

The seats and tables should be well spaced. It ensures guests have ample space to move around and socialise. The pergola should complement the design of your home and landscape. As such, it should not take up too much space if you have a small garden. 

4. Location

The pergola could be an independent structure located at a strategic point in your garden. Alternatively, it could be built next to your house. Preferably, it will be close to the swimming pool if you have one in your backyard. 

Work with a Professional Builder

Finding a pergola builder can be a difficult task. Below are a few tips to help you choose a builder. 

  1. Rely on experience. Ask the builder to show you some of his or her previous work. He or she should also be licenced to build pergolas.
  2. Check the builder's reviews on social media and real estate blogs.
  3. The builder should have a general liability cover. If he or she has subcontractors on-site, they too should have insurance coverage.
  4. The builder should be highly professional. For instance, he or she should advise about permits, pergola design and the time it will take to build the structure. 

Budgeting

Compare quotes from a few builders. With inadequate funds, you could opt for a home improvement loan from your bank. The bank will make payments to your builder in phases. Do not forget to ask for a discount from your builder. 

Pergolas can significantly improve the appeal of your landscape. Choose an appropriate design, work with a professional builder and organise your funding. 

For more informaiton, contact a pergola builder.