Thursday, March 28, 2024
HomeFactsHow Do Pergolas Provide Shade

How Do Pergolas Provide Shade

What Is The Point Of A Pergola

How to Build a Pergola Attached to Your House | Mitre 10 Easy As DIY

Weve come up with six different points and purposes for having a pergola:

  • Provide sun protection and versatile shade
  • Create a sheltered walkway to another structure
  • Designate an outdoor entertainment space
  • Support climbing and creeping plants
  • Increase your home value
  • Add affordable beauty to your dwelling
  • Well take a deeper look into each of these points and hopefully, by the end, youll be able to see what ways a pergola could be beneficial to you!

    When A Pergola Needs A Helping Hand To Deliver Shade And Comfort

    Love outdoor living? Have a pergola, and love it? Okay, almost love it? Maybe it gets a little too hot or bright riiiiight when you want to use it? Oasis Patio Shades can help you fall back in love with your covered patio. Pergolas are HOT in exterior design today, and why not? They are gorgeous, help to define a space, and add architectural interest and detail. Theres no denying that they can vastly improve the appearance of an outdoor space. But why didnt someone tell us that they were vulnerable?

    What Can You Use To Shade A Pergola

    To shade a pergola, use fabric hung as curtains or draped over the roof, patio planting ideas, and different roofing materials either alone or in combination. Your choices might depend on the permanence of the pergola, and the style of your yard.


    If you have erected a temporary pergola to provide shade over the course of a few sunny days, then fabric provides an excellent source of shade. As permanent solutions, consider adding blinds or even building a solid roof.

    Recommended Reading: How To Build A Raised Patio Garden Box

    What Is A Pergola

    The word “pergola” is derived from the Latin word “pergula,” meaning “projective eave.” The word was later borrowed from Italian and used in English to describe an ornamental garden.

    A pergola is not a simple shade cover its purpose goes beyond that. It is essentially an outdoor overhead structure that is supported by vertical posts or columns. It can be either connected to your wall or roof or stand separately. It is installed for sun protection – it blocks most sunlight while letting some of the beams through. You can enjoy your time spent outdoors on a sunbed or garden sofa, sipping a refreshing drink, or being absorbed in a book under the protection from the direct sunlight. For full sun and heavy rain protection use a retractable fabric pergola.

    A pergola has a smart design, allowing air to circulate freely between the slats, so you can feel the cool breeze as the structure is open on all four sides. It has a sloped lattice roof that lets some sunlight pass through, and it is usually made of wood and can be made of aluminum, steel or PVC.


    Relax In A Pergola Tent

    Amazon.com : Coarbor 6Ft x 24Ft Shade Cloth Pergola Patio Cover Provide ...

    If you’re hosting a garden party, adding a decadently dressed pergola for shade to the lawn creates a focal point for gathering and the perfect spot to escape the heat of the day.

    Ideal for summer celebrations, this 9 foot pergola from Raj Tent Club is able to seat up to 10 guests. As well as offering shade from above, the delicately tied curtains at each post can also be untied and closed to create an intimate setting. Just add lighting to linger in the yard after dark.

    Recommended Reading: How To Remove Rust From Patio Furniture

    Add Affordable Beauty To Your Dwelling

    Studies show that there are psychological factors behind interior and exterior design, and one key contributor to a successful space is creating a feeling of safety. Small nooks, warm spaces, and natural lighting can make us feel comfortable and relaxed. Pergolas are beautiful and functional, and are usually cheaper than their close relatives: large patio covers, pavilions, or gazebos. Add outdoor lantern lights, soft curtains, plants, or intricate privacy screens to add extra coziness and beauty.

    How Do You Cover Pergola For Shade And Rain

    A fabric cover provides shade, but for rain or snow protection youll need something more sturdy. You can purchase a pergola with a metal roof, or you can build your own waterproof cover out of corrugated metal or plastic. As a bonus, the raindrops will sound beautiful as they hit the solid pergola cover.


    You May Like: How To Build A Tin Roof Patio Cover

    How Does A Pergola Actually Provide Shade

    Pergolas give shade much as awnings they include a frame with some shading material that lays over the framework. Unlike awnings, several different materials can be used on a pergola to provide shade.

    Shades for pergolas can include metal, timber, reeds, branches, fabric, and even live foliage. Also, you can use these materials in combination to not only achieve the desired shade result but create a pleasing aesthetic look for your outdoor space as well.

    Were Specialists In Attaching A Pergola To A House

    How much shade does a pergola provide?

    Our pergolas have been designed to sit flush to houses, creating seamless indoor to outdoor living spaces. Our products are also available as freestanding pergolas for those looking to create stylish garden features.

    From design through to completion, well manage your pergola installation and work alongside third parties as and when required to ensure your vision is achieved.


    Why not have a look at some of our previous installations for an idea of what the Broadview team can achieve when attaching a pergola to a house.

    Like what you see? Then why not give our friendly sales team a call on ? Theyll be able to talk you through our range and create the perfect pergola package for your home.

    You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Ants Under Brick Patio

    How Far Can A 2×12 Span For A Pergola

    Theres not quite enough information here to give a definitive answer, but for decks, a rule of thumb is when supporting joists that span 12 feet, a double ply beam can span in feet a value equal to its depth in inches. Thus, a double 2×12 beam could span 12 feet with 20 beams, posts at 10 might look the best.

    How Do You Add More Shade To A Pergola

    While a pergola in its base form will not provide complete protection from the sun, it doesnt mean its not possible.


    There are numerous modifications you can do to add more sun protection for you and your family. Adding more shade to your pergola is where you can get creative and use your design preferences.

    Some of the best ways that you can add more shade to your pergola are:

  • Install a fabric shade
  • Add foliage and live plants
  • Use a retractable cloth canopy
  • Install lattice wood panels
  • Add fabric walls for complete sun protection
  • These methods will help increase the shade coverage of your pergola and add your unique style to the space. To help you decide which method is best for your home, here is a detailed breakdown of the ways to add more shade.

    Read Also: How To Remove Patio Door

    Create A Sheltered Walkway To Another Structure

    With more shade coverage added, your pergola can also have more shelter from the elements. If you would like to connect your home with another structure via a sheltered walkway, a pergola could be a good option for you to consider. Guesthouses, detached garages, greenhouses, and saunas can have beautiful sheltered walkways with the addition of a pergola.


    Pergolas Create Versatile Shade

    ShadeLogic Sun Shade Sail Heavy Weight 16 Foot Square

    You might be curious, do pergolas really offer shade? Yes, pergolas were designed to add shade to your backyard space. They are excellent for providing relief from the harsh, direct rays of the sun while allowing sunlight access to fill the space. Although, as a stand-alone structure, pergolas do not provide full shade, their versatile structures allow many shade options. If you desire full coverage, you can add a retractable canopy. This option allows you to enjoy various levels of shade depending on the time of day or suns location. Retractable canopies arent the only solution for full sun coverage. There are many more ways to add extra sunblock to your pergola that can reflect your personal style or preference such as plants, bamboo, or fabric sales, to name a few.

    Follow these links below to discover different shade coverage options for your pergola. Pergola Shade: Practical Solution for Every Outdoor Space and Cheap Ways to Cover a Pergola

    Read Also: Can You Reupholster Patio Chairs

    Pergolas Offer Affordable Beauty

    Many questions fill your mind as you consider the possibility of owning a pergola, and understandably, you may wonder if these Italian beauties are affordable? Pergolas are a more affordable choice, especially compared to their friendly competitors gazebos and pavilions. While gazebos and pavilions easily cost over $4000, the average cost of a custom pergola is around $3,500 with labor and materials included. If you build it yourself the price drops to about $3,000. Available as a cheaper option, there are do-it-yourself pergola kits that usually cost around $1,500 to $2,000 depending on the square footage. Alternatively, if you are desiring to invest in a high-end pergola, the price comes closer to $7,000. For more detailed guidance in understanding the cost of pergolas follow this link to How Much Does it Cost to Build a Pergola. Take your time to research and become comfortable with the cost of a pergola that fits right into your budget. Pergolas were designed to be an affordable investment in cultivating your love for the outdoors and in your desire to have others enjoy your outdoor space with you.

    What Is The Purpose Of A Pergola

    Pergolas have centuries behind them. With Italian essence ingrained in their distinct structures, they boast a creation dating back to medieval times. These charming, open-air structures are secured with four posts or columns and topped with cross-beams or lattices. The airy structures are commonly made of wood, vinyl, or aluminum.


    Pergolas are most often installed on pavers or a concrete patio. This allows for outdoor furniture and or grilling equipment to be placed underneath it. Pergolas are a great way to make a part of your backyard space a central hangout spot.

    PERGOLA pronunciation Per gow luh

    You might have heard this word in a variety of places, possibly through the media, from your friends, or by your co-workers. But what has really drawn you to discover more about the purpose of a pergola? It is your love for the outdoors, careful attention to the landscape of your home, and your innate desire to create beauty and a hospitable, irresistible outdoor sanctuary for your family and friends. Perhaps at times you look outside your backyard window and feel dissatisfied with your limited space or you simply wish your landscape design had more style or was more accommodating for hosting. Well, pergolas are your answer by ensuring that being in your backyard can be just as pleasant as being in your own cozy home. Everyone should be able to make their backyard an extension of their own creative indoor design.

    Also Check: How To Redo A Paver Patio

    People Use Pergolas As Gathering Spots

    Its also common for people to use pergolas as gathering spots. You might host little parties or lunches outside sometimes.

    Having a nice seating area underneath a pergola is perfect for this. The pergola provides everyone with a little bit of shade.

    Theyre still able to enjoy the breeze and the fresh air while sitting under the pergola. You can easily fit a table under a pergola so you can enjoy a small lunch with friends or family.

    In many ways, pergolas are used in the same way as patios. You might find the pergola area to be one of your favorite aspects of your yard.

    When you like spending time outside, it makes sense to use the pergola to host guests. This is especially true if you have a nice garden area.

    Advantages Of Having A Pergola

    A Covered Pergola Is A MUST Here’s 5 Reasons Why | Cover Your Pergola

    Pergolas are a great way to easily add value to a home. These shady structures are easy and affordable DIY projects for any homeowner looking to entice buyers or to simply enjoy more time outdoors.

    With the average cost of a traditional pergola sitting at $3,600, its easy to understand why some may want to take this project into their own hands.

    Pergolas are lattice or cross-beam structures designed to offer relief from the sun while allowing air to circulate freely. Pergolas are distinct from arbours in that they are larger and can be used in a variety of ways such as walkways, sitting areas, or outdoor living space.

    While pergolas do not provide complete shade, there are customizable options available to retrofit the cross-beams at more desirable angles or to add fabric or retractable canopies for desired living.

    Pergolas are a great way for anyone looking to entertain, enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, or add a unique feature to their home. There are plenty of ways to dress up a pergola to make it feel festive or adhere to a certain aesthetic.

    Designers, landscapers, architects, homeowners, and buyers are attracted to this feature to add a bit of shade to any outdoor space.

    Its been noted that since the emergence of outdoor living has skyrocketed, so has the need for appealing landscaping and additional features to add value to ones home. An estimated 50-80% return on investment is seen when improvements are made to the backyard space or patio area of a home.

    Read Also: Outdoor Roller Blinds For Pergola

    Benefits Of A Pergola

    By MMC Fencing & Railing

    I dont know about you, but when I see a pergola, Im immediately reminded of the Mediterranean. Easy and breezy, open and airy, covered in vines . . . But although theyre undoubtedly beautiful, do pergolas really provide much shade? Can they help define your space? Why would you choose to purchase a pergola over, say, a covered deck or an awning? Believe us when we say that a pergola is more than just a pretty face. If youve ever wondered what a pergola could offer you, your family, your home, or your yard, scroll down, because today were discussing the many benefits of a pergola.

    Can I Build A Pergola Without Council Approval

    When it comes time to building your deck or pergola, you will first need to make sure that you have approval from your local council. Though you may be advised by friends or family that a permit is not required, it wont be them paying the fine or having to remove the structure if it turns out that you do.

    Don’t Miss: How To Build A Hip Roof Patio Cover

    How Do You Make A Pergola For Max Shade

    To make a pergola for max shade, youll want to use materials that are thick and heavy. Thick wood or metal posts will block more sunlight than thin ones because theyre less transparent so they absorb heat better.

    The roof should be made out of something like shingles instead of asphalt which lets some UV light through . You can also buy tinted glass or plastic to put over the top of your pergola which will create an even greater level of shade!

    Will A Pergola Make The House Dark

    Pergola Shades

    There are a lot of factors to take into consideration when planning for your pergola. A common concern is the amount of shade thats provided, as if your pergola is constructed outside of a house window, there is potential for a room to feel too dark.

    Fortunately, with Broadviews Residential Shading Solutions, our pergola roofs will not make your house dark. We offer pergola roofs which open completely, meaning you can adjust the louvred roof based on sunlight exposure, thereby limiting the levels of shade around the rooms of your house.

    The following Broadview pergolas are prime examples of how you can monitor the levels of shade and sunlight for your home. They are available in white and can be attached to or away from your house depending on how you want light to be beamed onto your home.

    Don’t Miss: Large Pergola With Retractable Canopy

    Advantageous To Climbing Plants

    If you are a gardener, you can be sure that using a pergola will benefit your plants, especially the climbing ones like grapevines, clematis, or wisteria. It supports the plants as well as provides shade for them from the scorching sun. Having a pergola in your backyard next to your gazebo or kitchen garden is a good deal if you need your plants to thrive well. They will appreciate the shade and support obtained from the Pergola.

    Benefit From Natural Shade

    If you are looking to erect a new pergola in your garden, consider positioning it in an area that is already shaded. This beautifully simple wooden carousel design from the Oxford Garden Centre has a completely open roof which enables it to feel bright and airy but, since it is positioned under the boughs of a willow tree, is perfectly shaded. Dressed with bunting, pillows and picnic blankets, it is ideal for al fresco dining.

    Read Also: How To Hang String Lights On Covered Patio Without Nails

    Which Way Should A Pergola Face

    You should face your pergola to the north or south so that it gets more sun in the morning and evening. East-facing pergolas get less direct sunlight, while west-facing ones are exposed to blazing hot midday rays all day long.

    Both of these options will provide some shade but theyre not ideal for most people who want an afternoon break from the heat.

    Need Shade Pergolas Have You Covered

    How to Make a Slide-On Wire Hung Canopy (Pergola Canopy)

    So, how do pergolas provide shade? By providing a physical barrier between you and the sun’s shining rays, of course! However, the amount of shade offered depends on a few factors: the beams’ size and spacing, where your pergola is placed, and whether or not it has a cover.

    Thicker shafts with a tighter lattice work will provide more shade than thinner beams spaced farther apart, but it will also restrict the view of the sky from inside the pergolas and limit the open airflow design that helps keep the area cool.

    Recommended Reading: How Much Is A Patio


    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular

    Patio Sliding Doors Home Depot

    When Should You Aerate Lawn