How to Use a Pergola on Deck

Pergolas are a beautiful addition to any deck. They can be used to create a shaded sanctuary for outdoor living or for entertaining guests.

They can also add height to a space making it more inviting and cosy for family gatherings and barbecues. But before you go ahead and install one, check whether your deck requires permits or regulations.

Sturdy Posts

The main support beams of a pergola are usually wood and it’s important to choose durable softwood that will stand up to weathering. Western red cedar, for example, is rot and insect resistant so it will hold up well to years of exposure.

Properly anchoring your posts is also important to the stability of the structure. You should not mount your posts on a surface like paving stones because these do not provide the adequate anchorage required by most codes for structures of this type.

Some builders opt to use helical piers for this purpose but the equipment required is expensive and the holes needed must be at least 48″ deep. Other installers choose to make their own concrete footings using tubular forms and cement. These are easier to install but they must be mixed and poured accurately. Some post anchoring hardware is then set into the wet cement. In any event, the foundation must be stable enough to resist the forces of wind and other weather conditions that could otherwise cause a pergola to shift or fall over time.

Weather-Resistant Materials

A pergola adds an element of elegance and sophistication to any outdoor living space. It also helps create a comfortable environment for gatherings, whether you’re relaxing with a book in the shade or hosting an intimate dinner party.

A wide array of materials can be used to construct pergolas, ranging from classic cedar to modern metal options like aluminum. Wood structures offer natural beauty, but they require routine staining and maintenance to prevent rot and insect infestation.

Wrought iron offers ornate designs and enduring strength that elevate the aesthetic of any garden. However, it can be pricey and requires constant maintenance to inhibit rust.

Vinyl can be a cost-effective material for pergola construction. Its flexibility allows for adjustable sun and rain protection depending on weather conditions and personal preference. Motorized or manually retractable canopies offer the added benefit of adaptable coverage that maximizes use of a pergola from day to day. You can also enclose the structure with outdoor curtains that allow light to filter through while blocking precipitation.

Climbing Plants

Many pergolas look more beautiful when adorned with flowers or greenery. The right climbing plants can transform the space into a lush haven for birds, butterflies and bees.

Fast-growing and low-maintenance climbing plants like clematis are suitable for a variety of garden conditions. With more than 300 species, you can find one that suits your aesthetic preferences. The flowering blooms of honeysuckle add a sweet fragrance that can enliven the entire garden. Akebia quinate is another fast-growing option that’s easy to care for. It thrives in both sun and partial shade and will drape your pergola with gorgeous red and yellow blooms.

For a more traditional look, roses are an excellent choice for trellises and pergolas, though keep in mind that these vines can have thorns. Wisteria is an impressive choice, with long purple racemes that will grace your pergola with beauty in spring. Another good option is star jasmine, a fragrant vine that loves sunlight and can grow up to six feet tall.

Lighting

A well-lit pergola adds an extra dimension to your deck and can be a focal point that catches the eye. This space can serve as a cozy lounge or an inviting outdoor dining area. A few well-placed lighting fixtures can also turn it into a gathering spot for friends and family to relax and chat after dark.

A standard LED light bar is a popular choice because it’s versatile enough to fit into a wide variety of designs and provides ample reflected light for the pergola roof. Some models even feature dimmers and ramping options for added functionality and control.

For a more contemporary look, try LED strip lights that can be hidden within the rafters or louvers for a seamless lighting solution. These models are also RGB capable, allowing you to change the color of the lights with a remote for additional mood settings like calming blues or energizing reds.



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