What is the point of having a pergola?

What is the point of having a pergola?

A pergola extends your living space and increases the amount of time you can spend outside. Designed and oriented correctly on your lot, a pergola can cast enough light shade to make even a warm afternoon enjoyable or if you still need additional protection, you can install a retractable shade cover for more shade.

Do pergolas actually provide shade?

Pergolas provide shade. Although they look somewhat unfinished to the untrained eye, pergolas do provide shade. The size of the beams and their spacing will determine exactly how much shade is provided, though a pergola on its own can never create a fully-shaded space.

What’s the difference between a pergola and a pergola?

The pergola and pergoda are very similar concepts. Both are structures designed to provide shading in outdoor areas. The main difference is that pergodas feature a solid roof made up of slats, whereas pergolas feature a sliding or louvred roof for greater versatility.

Can a pergola have a roof?

Pergolas have a semi-open roof to allow for sunlight and shade together, the best of both worlds. Pavilions feature a completely enclosed roof and as will all ShadeScape® shelters they can be attached or free-standing structures.

What is a Backyard Pergola?

Short on shade, privacy, or drama in the backyard? Consider outfitting it with a pergola. These charming rectangular garden structures are generally made of wood and consist of end posts supporting a latticed roof of horizontally oriented beams topped by vertically oriented rafters.

Do pergolas block sun?

Pergolas are not designed to completely block the sun, but to provide relief from direct sunlight, while allowing air to circulate freely.” The “lattice” cover is made of beams over the top that may or may not be louvered.

How hard is it to build a pergola?

Building a pergola can be a simple to challenging building project depending on what plan you pick so make sure you know your skill level before starting. All the free pergola plans include building instructions, lists of tools and materials that you’ll need, diagrams, and photos.

Can you build a pergola over a fire pit?

Do not place the pergola or gazebo with the fire pit close to overhanging limbs of trees, branches or leaves. Or too close to your home. 3. Propane or natural gas is preferred to use with gazebos and pergolas, but you can use a wood burning fire pit as long a you use a fire screen to contain the ash and embers.

Can you put a pergola on pavers?

Although tempting to take an easy route, you should not fasten posts to paving stones. Paving stones do not provide sufficient anchorage for a pergola that will be subject to wind loads and the seasonal forces that will move the structure over time.

How much clearance do you need for a fire pit?

Fire Pit Clearance Before striking the match, never place a pit closer than 10 feet from anything flammable, including your house and overhead tree branches. Unless the owner’s manual says it’s okay, don’t put the pit on a grassy surface, wood deck, or enclosed porch.

Can a fire pit go under a covered patio?

Can I put a fire pit under a covered patio? You can absolutely have a natural gas or propane fire pit under a covered patio if the overhead height of the ceiling meets CSA requirements for distance from appliance.

Is it safe to put a fire pit on a deck?

Don’t: Never place your fire pit directly on a wood deck. The heat, flying sparks, and ash can seriously damage your deck and can also lead to a dangerous fire.

Can you put a fire pit on grass?

Fire pits can be placed directly on top of grass. However, without proper precaution, there can be major damage to the grass. It is recommended to place a mat or other material underneath to avoid damage.

What do you put under a fire pit?

Protective Mat You might be surprised to learn that there are mats designed specifically for fire pits. These high-strength mats are placed underneath the fire pit, protecting the ground (or grass) from heat damage. Place them at underneath your fire pit for instant protection.

Where should you put a fire pit?

Fire pits should be placed on a level surface, no less than ten feet away from any structure, 20-25 feet or more is best, in a wide-open space, away from trees with low hanging limbs, woodpiles, bushes, and other materials that could ignite if contact with a flame is made.

Does a fire pit need a cover?

A protective cover is a must for any fire pit. Once your fire pit has cooled down, a protective cover will shield it from rain, sunlight, and wildlife. Using a protective cover will prolong the life of your firepit by preventing rust and discoloration.

Should I put sand in my fire pit?

A layer of sand is meant to protect the metal at the bottom of the bowl from the extreme heat of the fire. The sand absorbs the heat and distributes the heat throughout the entire base of the pit evenly. When this happens, it can lead to the metal at the bottom of the fire pit deteriorating and burning through.

Do fire pits need drainage?

Most commercial fire pit systems are designed to prevent water from getting in but you can’t rely solely on this element. The bottoms of the pit should include weep holes to allow drainage from below and there should also be a drain under the pit’s pan to prevent water from pooling.

Can fire pits get rained on?

Yes, they can get wet. However, the buildup of moisture inside a propane fire pit can cause interference with the gas burners, which can prevent lighting and rust of the equipment. Proper care should be taken to avoid these things.