If you are thinking of building a pergola, you’ve already taken a great first step. A pergola is a beautiful addition to your home and it can add value to your property. There are many design options and materials from which to choose from are suggested by Decks & Pergolas Melbourne, but if you aren’t sure where to start, we’ll help guide you through the process.
Step 1: Type of roof
When it comes to the type of roof for your pergola, there are several considerations. The first is whether you want a simple wooden pergola or something more substantial. In addition to the style of your home and yard, this decision will also have an impact on which materials are used in constructing your new structure. Choosing a roof type will have an effect on both cost and function—and it can make all the difference between a simple shelter or something truly special!
Step 2: Size and orientation
Second, you need to consider the size and orientation of your pergola. The size of your pergola depends on how much area you want to cover. A good rule of thumb is that it should be at least one-third wider than the span of your roof so that there’s room for people to walk through it, and all around it. For example, if your garden has an 8-meter span, the width of your pergola should be no less than 3 meters (10 feet).
The orientation on which side of a north-facing or south-facing pergola works best depends on where you live: if you’re in the northern hemisphere (i.e., US), then north would be ideal; if however you’re in Australia or South Africa then south would be best suited for maximum sun exposure during winter months.
Step 3: Materials – choose long-lasting
As with all outdoor furniture, pergolas are exposed to the elements so it’s important to choose materials that will last for many years. The two most common choices are made from wood or metal. Wood is considered more traditional and elegant, while metal is more stylish and contemporary. Both have their pros and cons, but ultimately what you want is something that suits your personal taste and the style of your home.
One thing that’s often overlooked when deciding on a pergola design is its size—but believe us when we say this has all sorts of implications when it comes time to sit down with an architect or contractor.
Step 4: The foundation of your pergola
When it comes to building the foundation, you want to make sure that it is level, strong and durable. The pergola will be a weighty structure so it will take a lot of force to keep it upright. If the ground underneath is too soft or uneven, then this could cause problems for your pergola.
In order for your foundation to be level, you need to have a leveled surface on which to build the frame of your pergola. If you don’t have access to a flat surface like this then there are tools available that can help with levelling such as spirit levels and laser levels (both mentioned in step 1).
Step 5: Building permits and inspection
Permits and inspections are the most important step in building your pergola, so make sure to get them. If you don’t, your structure could be unsafe or even fall down. The same goes for foundation installation.
Inspections will ensure that everything is up to code before you can begin construction on your pergola. Well, Decks & Pergolas Melbourne also suggest that in some areas, they may also require a permit before starting work as well (although this varies by region). Permits must be obtained from local authorities, who will inspect the site where your project is set to take place at least once during each phase of construction – foundation work included!
Conclusion
The decision for your new pergola should be as easy as possible. For that reason, we have outlined the 5 most important steps in this blog post. With Decks & Pergolas Melbourne, always hope it helps you to make the best choice for your home!