The world is seeing record-breaking temperatures in the summer, but nobody wants that heat and sunlight to trap them indoors. Getting fresh air is necessary for a balanced life, and pergolas are the way to make it happen.
These visually appealing structures are becoming incredibly popular in the USA, but many are still unaware of their history or use. Here’s everything you could want to know about pergolas.
Pergola History
Pergolas date back to Ancient Egypt, first showing up in the plans for a garden designed in 1400 BC. They rose to popularity multiple times throughout history, with this recent fascination with them starting in the early 1900s. They're made to keep the sun off of you while still allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and views of nature. Although they're becoming extraordinarily popular again, they're not a trend you'll have to worry about going out of style any time soon.
Do Pergolas Work?
Yes! The modern pergola can lower the temperature of any area under its shade by five degrees. This can be a massive impact, making a muggy 80-degree day a lot more comfortable to sit in. Pergolas are also fantastic for keeping the rain off if you have the right roof installed on it, meaning surprise summer thunderstorms won't be able to ruin your day.
What Are Pergolas Made Of?
Pergolas can be made from a variety of materials. But what is the best material to use for a pergola? The most commonly used materials for pergola production are steel, wood or alumawood. We have provided a detailed pergola materials list for your convenience.
Alumawood Pergolas are a popular option. Alumawood is an embossed aluminum that is manufactured into a variety of shapes and painted to resemble real wood. An alumawood pergola kit is decently affordable and provides homeowners or businesses the freedom to customize their pergola without the hefty price tag.
Wood Pergolas are a great choice. Wood seems to be a pretty popular pergola material, but what wood is the best type of wood to use for a pergola in Phoenix, Arizona? Commonly used pergola woods can include a variety of woods like tropical hardwoods and modified woods.
Tropical Hardwoods are also a great choice for a pergola. They come with rich colors and elegant textures and typically, tropical hardwood pergolas are much stronger than PT wood, Red Cedar and Redwood. Tropical hardwoods do tend to be a bit pricey and a lot of times, tropical hardwoods are not harvested using respectable foresting practices.
Modified Wood can be another affordable choice. Using modified wood for a pergola is a great alternative to hardwoods that damage the forest. Using sustainable, fast growing species and combines them with a bio based liquid to reinforce the wood's strength. This allows the wood to be as durable as a hardwood, providing a longer lifespan for the pergola while remaining eco friendly. Modified woods require no surface treatments and are naturally water resistant.
Steel Pergolas are a great maintenance free option for a pergola. Steel pergolas hold their shape and are built to last. Don't worry about warping, rotting, cracking or insect invasions when using steel. The only downside to steel pergolas is the possibility of getting rust.
Having lots of options when it comes to your pergolas allows homeowners to choose the best pergola option within their budget. No matter what idea or design you have in mind, pergolas can be made to accentuate any home or outdoor area. For anyone wondering how to install a pergola - Choosing the right pergola material is paramount to the longevity of your pergola structure. It determines how much maintenance your pergola will require and ultimately how much you will enjoy your pergola addition.