GARDEN AND YARD DECORATION

Creating an Individual and Beautiful Garden Structure

Traditional Rafters

Usually formed from several planks of wood, the rafter are shaped at the ends, and run horizontally across the top of the structure. If the pergola roofing is to fit flush, the notches are cut to half the depth of the rafter, so that when the two are positioned, they are smooth across the top. If, however, the rafters are notched to less than half of the depth, the main rafters will stand proud of the cross rafters. Creating unique and interesting rafter tail ends is the fun part.

Laths. This gives a three-tiered effect and, with ornate rafter tail ends, can create a very elaborate design.

Trellis. A different method for forming the roof is to use a trellis panel instead of the main and cross rafters. It is an effective way to add rafters cheaply, and also to save time and effort.

Fabric Covered Pergola. Asian Inspired Structures

Willow

The posts are made from grouped willow ‘whips’, which are then fanned out to form the rafters of the living structure.

Add Style and Function With a Custom Pergola Roof Design

The space can be used for many functions and outdoor entertaining possibilities including cooking out, dining, lounging on comfortable chairs, or as a serene respite from the chaos of life. For maximum use of your outdoor pergola, go with a design that is versatile or one that can be converted or changed to fit and serve multiple functions.

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The design of a pergola depends on the geographical location. One of the most important considerations when designing a pergola is the roofing structure and shape

Although, in earlier times, pergolas were constructed using brick and stone pillars, modern designs employ weather resistant woods such as western red cedar or coast redwood. Pergola roofs may range from simple, flat, traditional roof, elaborately curved roof, pitched roof, gabled roof or a gazebo style roof.

Roofing materials

There is a variety of materials that may be used to roof a pergola. The choice of roofing materials depend on the size, shape and style of the structure. Currently the materials that are used for roofing include metals, plastic, fibreglass, polycarbonate, fabric, etc.

Metal Roof, Plastic and Fibreglass. Another variation of roofing for pergolas includes using plastic or fibreglass.

Polycarbonate. Polycarbonates are also highly reputed for their protection from ultraviolet radiation.

Fabric

Depending on the type of fabric used, these pergolas may avoid the transmission of heat which could cause fading or damages to the roof.

Comparative Study of Roofing Materials for a Pergola

The choice of materials to cover or roof the pergola depends on the buyer’s instincts as to the choices for durability, permanency and availability. White roofs reflect better. As the Earth seeks to get greener, the best choice, of course is to enjoy traditional, open roofed pergolas.

Painting your Pergola

Paint is also beneficial because they prevent moisture damage and rust. Acrylic paints are the best choice for painting pergolas as they provide the best protection.

The durability of pergola depends on the materials chosen for its construction. As the roofs are permanently exposed to the elements of nature, the paint chose may fade easily. Also, materials such as fabric may fray or fade and plastic or fibreglass roofs may get warped or change colour.

To paint a pergola for lasting protection, it is important to follow the traditional procedures such as preparing the surface which include removing old paint, using sandpaper to permit absorption and applying preservative towards the end of the painting. Application of a water repellent preservative with fungicide is an excellent idea before painting because it prevents absorption of water by wood which may cause decay.

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