For most people that are not in the landscaping profession, any outdoor resting structure is a pergola. But that’s definitely not the case. 

If you fall in the same category, then this article is for you. It will give you a clear picture of what a pergola is and other details on the same.

First things first: what is a pergola?

Basically, a pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of vertical posts or pillars that are supported by beams and rafters. They usually form a shaded walkway, a sitting area or a shaded passageway.

While pergolas come in different styles and material, the essential parts of any pergola include:

• Columns- they are the pillars that support the pergola’s roof
• Beams and rafters- they are basically the slats that make up the open roof of pergolas
• Stringers- they are optional but they provide more shade and perpendicularly on top of rafters
• Ledger board- also optional, its work is to connect the pergola to a building.

What material are pergolas made of?

Pergolas not only vary in design; they also vary in the material used. The material varies based on its likelihood to last, cost and maintenance needed. Potential materials for pergolas include; Wood, vinyl, aluminum, concrete, fiberglass and steel.

Installing a pergola

When it comes to installing a pergola, you can do a DIY because it’s cheap and you can build it the way you want it to be but that’s not the ideal approach. Consider hiring a local professional landscaper. This way, you will not only get the desired pergola of your dreams but alsa get a high-quality build.

Another important thing to factor in before you build your pergola is the cost of your chosen pergola. Prices do vary but we would recommend you go for a design within your set budget which may greatly depend on the size and the materials you choose.

At Cat In a Hammock we offer you with a free design consultation. If you are a resident of Thousand Oaks, reach out to us for this and all your landscaping needs.