For homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor space, then consider installing a pergola. While frequently confused with an arbor, these versatile structures provide both beauty and practicality, creating an inviting area for relaxation, entertainment, and much more. To help, the following offers a brief explanation to understand what a pergola does, along with highlighting its many incredible benefits.
What is a Pergola?
Pergolas are open-air structures that consist of four supporting posts that are topped with crossbeams or lattice. Frequently, pergolas are made of wood, but they can also be made of vinyl or aluminum. Additionally, they can be either attached to your home or can act as a freestanding structure. Importantly, when a pergola is designed and installed properly it can provide sufficient shade to make a warm afternoon enjoyable sitting outside. Plus, for more sun protection, then a retractable shade cover or canopy can be installed as well.
Conversely, a traditional arbor is incorporated into an existing (or new) fence and primarily enhances a garden or sitting area by incorporating a bench or gate. Arbors also create a terrific structure for climbing vines, which adds in differentiating the garden or entertaining area of your yard.
While similar, pergolas primarily create additional shade over walkways and decks, and arbors typically are included within existing fences or gates.
10 Incredible Benefits of a Pergola
Pergolas add a touch of elegance and sophistication, making your outdoor space more inviting. Effectively designed and installed, pergolas act as a focal point, which attracts attention to specific areas and creates a sense of structure and organization. In addition to the aesthetic appeal, there are other great benefits of a pergola.
Creates Outdoor Living Space
A pergola effectively extends your living space outdoors because it creates a defined area that can be used for various activities such as dining, lounging, or hosting gatherings. Plus, by adding furniture, lighting, and even outdoor curtains, you can create a cozy and functional outdoor room that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Provides Shade and Comfort
While a pergola does not provide complete shelter from the elements, it offers partial shade that can make a significant difference on hot, sunny days. The slatted roof allows sunlight to filter through while providing enough shade to make the area beneath comfortable. This makes pergolas an ideal spot for outdoor relaxation without being exposed to direct sunlight.
Defines Spaces
For larger yards, pergolas are useful to differentiate areas of the landscape. For example, a pergola can help separate entertaining and play areas, along with spotlighting the garden. With multiple areas of your landscape, then defining the space keeps the yard organized, functional, and visually appealing.
Enhances Privacy
Although pergolas are open structures, they still enhance privacy. For instance, incorporating climbing plants, or even curtains or screens, creates a secluded area that shields you from the view of neighbors. With additional privacy, you can relax or entertain with a greater sense of privacy and comfort.
Enhances Social Gatherings
From a relaxing family evening to a casual family barbecue to an elegant outdoor dinner party, pergolas serve as the perfect backdrop for any type of social gathering or event. Additionally, by adding outdoor lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, you can create a magical atmosphere in the evenings.
Complements Other Outdoor Features
In addition to enhancing social gatherings, pergolas complement other outdoor features such as patios, decks, and pools. With the proper design and installation, they can be integrated into the design of these areas to create a cohesive and harmonious look. For example, a pergola over a patio can provide shade and a sense of enclosure, making the space feel more intimate and inviting.
Supports Climbing Plants
Pergolas are perfect for supporting climbing plants like wisteria, ivy, and roses. As these plants grow and intertwine with the structure, they create a lush, green canopy that not only enhances the beauty of the pergola but also provides additional shade and privacy. This natural integration of plants can transform your pergola into a serene, green oasis.
Versatility in Design
Pergolas offer a high degree of design versatility and customization. Every yard is unique, so incorporating a pergola should be customized in terms of size, shape, and material to match your specific needs and preferences. From a traditional wooden pergola to a modern metal design, there are endless possibilities to create a structure that complements your home and landscape.
Cost-Effective Enhancement
Compared to other outdoor structures like gazebos or fully enclosed patios, pergolas are relatively cost-effective. They offer many of the same benefits in terms of enhancing outdoor living space and aesthetic appeal but at a lower cost. This makes them an excellent investment for homeowners looking to improve their outdoor area without breaking the bank (and potentially adding to the property value as well).
Easy to Maintain
Importantly, pergolas are relatively easy to maintain and require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional treatment or painting (depending on the material) are usually sufficient to keep them looking great for years.
Orange Fence & Supply Pergola Contractors in Southern, CT
“Nobody builds ‘em better!”
Since 1930, Orange Fence & Supply professionally installed a variety of beautiful fencing options, including customized pergolas (and arbors). As your local fencing contractor throughout Southern Connecticut and into parts of Hartford County, we bring experienced design methods and craftsmanship to enhance the look of your home and add the privacy and protection you need. Our fencing services include arbors and pergolas, along with the following:
- Fence repairs and replacement
- New fence installation
- Complimentary design consultation with new fence installation
- Free estimates
- Expansive collection of fencing materials and systems
If you’re considering adding a pergola to your home, contact Orange Fence & Supply. With over 90 years of experience installing pergolas, our team will help you choose the perfect pergola for your outdoor space!
