Pergolas

Pergolas are a partially covered walkway that may be connecting two building or leading into the garden. The traditional pergola was made of wooden beams with open wooden slats in the roof. Climbing plants were grown against the pillars and it was the plants that eventually grew to cover the roof. These walkways are open and airy and the shade is provided by the plants that grow to cover it. They were mostly constructed of wood with wooden posts and wooden crossbeams. If one has the space and lives in an area which has a mild climate then it would be a good idea to construct a pergola. A pergola constructed in wood with any variety of climbing vines or flowers on it would add to the décor of the house and would enhance the landscape. It would provide a colorful break in a monotonous space and add charm. Of course it would be practical also.

Pergolas are not very difficult structures to construct and knowing the length and breath on which the pergola is to be built one can get plans. Once it is decided what theme the pergola is to be built on. Like would it have round poles or square, and what color would the woodwork be etc. Plans for pergolas and pergola kits are also available and the Internet is a very good source for getting plans and kits.

Pergolas do not necessarily have to be walkways; a pergola can be constructed on a deck also. The purpose of the pergola is to provide a nice looking shade and a pergola without any plants growing on it would be a rather bare and ugly structure.

If one wants to construct a pergola the choice would be between a traditional wooden pergola and an aluminum one. The pergola has to match the theme of the house it is to be constructed with or be in stark contrast. But that is a decision for the home owner to take. A pergola could also be a garden pergola and could be in the middle of the garden with the climbers growing on it. If a gardener has some lovely vines or other climbers that he wants to show off then constructing a simple pergola and letting them grow on them could be a very good option of showing off the plants.

To construct a pergola would mean measuring out the area digging pot holes, putting in the beams and firming them up so as to have a solid base and once the beams are set. Put in the crossbeams. If one has ordered a kit then the assembling instructions would be a part of the kit and a good handyman should be able to construct it. As the pergola’s roof does not have to bear much weight they have to just be strong enough to take the weight of the plants that would grow over them and should the weight of the plants be getting too much for the beams the plant would have to be trimmed.

There are numerous designs for pergolas from which one can choose and on the net it’s not to difficult to be able to find a suitable design. Most designs have plans also with them so which really means that it’s only getting the requisite material and building it that is required. A pergola can also be a porch and it would really be an extension of the main house.

A pergola on the main entrance to a house with fragrant flowers on it would make a very pleasant and cheerful entranceway.