Pergola Attached To The House Versus Freestanding Which One Is Right For Your Home
Installing a pergola is a great way to add beauty and value to your house and creates the perfect outdoor space for your unique lifestyle. The structure can enhance how you entertain guests, create a peaceful escape, add definition and ambiance to a backyard, deck or patio, or all of the above.
Choosing a pergola to complement your home comes with questions. One of the most frequent is whether you should attach a wall-mounted pergola to your house or if a freestanding model will better fit your outdoor lifestyle.
How To Build A Pergola On A Deck
At deck planning stage, you should be working on the design of the pergola so that the structure can be put in place at the same time as you are building deck stair supports or building deck railing supports.
Youll need to consider the size and function of your pergola shade ideas. Do you plan to cover your entire deck or the section of the deck which is immersed in the most sunlight? How will the pergola be used in your day-to-day life?
New York-based landscape designer Kristen Monji, from Birch + Basil likes to ensure the pergola covers the seating area on the deck. I’ll take a look at how much space we’ll need for that and then add an additional two-three feet or so at least on each side to make sure there’s enough coverage and shade.
We’ve done pergolas over dining areas too, but over the lounge area is usually more preferable since this is where people will spend the majority of their time while seated outdoors, Kristen confirms.
Avoid installing pergola posts that can block heavily trafficked areas. Plus, consider whether you need a permit to construct it. Most large decks are fine, but adding a pergola can make it subject to more rigorous city codes.
You will need:
- Pre-made pergola kit, or timber or composite if building posts, beams, and rafters from scratch
- Heavy-duty bolts
Setup Pergola Pool House
If you have a pool but no pool house, you can quickly transform your pergola on deck into one. All you have to do is add outdoor waterproof furniture and a hot tub to make a setting fit to use all year round.Bring out the pool house vibes by pairing the wood used to make the pergola with other materials that scream nature, such as brick and stone, for your patio.
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Create A Mini Outdoor Cinema
Transform your pergola on deck into a cinema by simply adding a white sheet attached to the pergolas beams through a tension rod. This has more benefits as you are not using the sheet to project your favorite movies at night it will help block harsh sunlight during the day. There is no downside to this addition!
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In one of their biggest challenges yet in terms of redefining spaces and floorplan, Joanna and Chip take on a quirky house in a rural setting and transform it into a charming and dramatic country home. Its the ideal spot for a couple who have two grown kids and are looking to settle down in their forever home.
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Big Kahuna Attached Pergola Kit
Big Kahuna Pergola Kit: Classic pergola design, built for maximum sun coverage and engineered for extreme weather conditions. The Big Kahuna pergola kit comes standard with:
- Double 2×8 Beams
If you think an attached pergola kit is right for your space, continue on by reading How to Order an Attached Pergola Kit below. We also build freestanding pergola kits in over 90 standard sizes and custom sizes, if you think that might be a better fit for your patio design. You can make that selection after you choose the size and wood type of your pergola kit.
Well walk you through how to order an attached pergola kit here, but you can always reach out and ask questions during the process.
Turn Your Pergola Into A Mini
For those who love hosting parties, there are plenty of options they can consider when adding a bar to their pergola on deck. If you are a fan of Tiki Bars, get barstools to match the theme, add some fairy lights, and you are good to go!If you would like to go for a classic bar look, you can create brick or wooden bars to match your pergola on deck.
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Adding A Pergola To An Existing Deck
I have an existing deck on the back of my house, and Id like to add a pergola. The deck is 17 x 16, and Id like to build the pergola to roughly match the size and shape.
The attached picture shows a view of the deck from above, along with measurements and placements of the existing support posts and beams. The posts are 6×6 and the beams are paired 2×10. The joists on top of that are 2×8, and theres deck flooring on top of that. There is also a ledger that runs the width of the deck, so it is attached to the house. I dont want to attach the pergola to the house though.
My idea for the pergola is this:
- Place 4x4x10 posts at the same locations as the deck posts. These would pass thru the deck floor and rest on the beams below.
- For the 4 posts that are at the outer edges of the deck , lag-bolt the new posts to the adjacent joists.
- The 5th post would be 2 feet in from the edges of the deck, and about right in the middle between 2 joists, so Im still wondering how to secure it. Maybe a post bracket attached to the bottom of the post and to the beam?
- Run 2×6 beams between the new posts, either sitting on top of the posts or attached to the sides of the posts with joist hangers, to form the outer edges of the pergola.
- Run 2-3 additional 2×6 beams across the middle, parallel to the house.
- Run some number of boards on edge, perpendicular to the house, across the top.
Questions:
Thanks for any info you can provide.
Sunjoy Meadow Metal Pergola With Canopy
This classic pergola comes ready to assemble, and its a great purchase to accommodate your needs. It comes with a rust-resistant and powder-coated steel frame thats durable and long-lasting. The pergola deck kit comes with a weather-resistant canopy that you can adjust according to your needs great for this sweltering summer days.
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Before & After Photos
On the left you can see the deck before we stained and painted it followed by the deck before we added the DIY pergola. The photo on the right shows the deck with the finished pergola.
Are you ready for the tutorial? First we had to rip out that arbor. After that we were ready to begin. Here is the complete DIY covered pergola tutorial!
How Do You Attach A Pergola To A House
Builders connect a pergola to a building via joist hangers or ledger board, depending on the type of home . There are structural considerations when choosing to attach a pergola to a building. The connection needs to be secure to avoid damaging your home. We recommend hiring a licensed contractor with experience attaching pergolas to homes for this type of install.
Choose an attached pergola to create:
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Purple Leaf Aluminum Pergola
From Purple Lead, this pergola is crafted with aluminum and offers plenty of shade. Not only is the aluminum alloy frame and galvanized steel roof are strong and sturdy, but its also long-lasting. Additionally, it also comes with curtains for additional privacy. The structure is also fade-resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean.
The Sheer Curtains Matching Patio Furniture Dual Plants String Lights And Patterned Rug Are Perfect Additions
Of course, a deck is a great addition to your house. If you plan to do this, make sure you take all the same precautions to maintain a watertight connection using flashing and caulking. A cedar pergola sits over a portion of the deck and belgard tandem wall columns and a planter box define the ares of the deck nicely.
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How To Build A Corner Pergola On A Deck
A corner pergola is a great solution for those with less space. This type of pergola design will provide a perfect pocket of privacy and shade. Usually, a corner pergola has three posts instead of four, so it is easier to build and more affordable. All of the safety requirements for corner pergolas are the same as for four-post pergolas, however.
Because of the extra privacy option that corner pergolas can offer, they are also a fantastic addition to a hot tub deck area. Read our hot tub pergola ideas for more inspiration.
Adding A Pergola To Your Existing Deck
Building your own pergola on your deck? We admire your tenacity! As you enter the planning stages of adding a pergola to your existing deck, stick to these guidelines:
The number one priority with a pergola is structural security. To ensure safety, invest in durable materials that provide a durable base. When building a pergola atop your deck you will need high-quality hardware, including post bases that are designed to be seen, timber bolts to connect wood to wood for your top frame, and post-to-beam support, preferably thats been hot-dipped galvanized.
Before you begin building your pergola, check with your local building department to see if your project requires any permits.
Keep your pergola safe by avoiding materials that will make the structure top-heavy. When in doubt, go with fabric panels or light wood lattice. If youre not convinced your pergola is sturdy, veer on the side of caution and add railings in between the posts.
Theres no need to build your own with a Trex® Pergola kit you benefit from the incredible strength delivered by the all-aluminum design and stainless steel hardware. Choose between a wide variety of custom sizes, shapes, and styles for almost unlimited design options. You can even add a manually retractable fabric canopy system for maximum shade coverage.
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Cut The Lumber To Size
Building a deck pergola attached to your house or ledger board is easier than it looks. The key is to cut all the lumber to size before you start assembly. These pergola plans include everything you need to get started.
You will need:-2x4s for the ledger board and outer rafters-2x6s for the inner rafters-1x4s for the purlins -1x6s for the facia -Construction adhesive-Galvanized nails or deck screws
Instructions:
1.Cut the ledger board and outer rafters to size out of 2×4 lumber. The ledger board should be the same length as your deck, and the outer rafters should be about 24 longer than the ledger board.2.Cut the inner rafters and purlins to size out of 2×6 lumber. The inner rafters should be about 12 shorter than the outer rafters, and the purlins should be cut to fit between the inner rafters.3.Cut the facia to size out of 1×4 lumber. The facia should be about 12 longer than the ledger board.4. Pre-drill holes in all of the lumber pieces with a countersink bit before assembly. This will make it easier to attach everything together later on.5. If you want your pergola to be stained or painted, do that now before you start assembly
Create Your Very Own Secret Garden
If you have a green thumb and are a fan of the floral aesthetic, then you can use your pergola on deck to create your very own hanging flower garden! Use pretty pots to hang all around the edges of the pergola that can be attached through metal hooks. You can create a low-maintenance garden by choosing plants that do not need a lot of sunlight, such as dead-nettles or begonias.
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Do I Need A Council Permit For A Deck Or Pergola
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.
All councils will have their own sets of regulations regarding decks, pergolas and other house extensions. These regulations cover things like structural integrity, what materials you can use and minimum construction standards that must be met.
Covered Pergola Plans Design Diy How To Build 12×18 Step By Step Instructions
Item specifics Condition: New: A brand-new, unused, unopened, undamaged item in its original packaging . Packaging should be the same as what is found in a retail store, unless the item is handmade or was packaged by the manufacturer in non-retail packaging, such as an unprinted box or plastic bag. See the sellers listing for full details. See all condition definitions opens in a new window or tab Custom Bundle: No MPN: Does Not Apply Modified Item: No Non-Domestic Product: No Brand: Unbranded Type: Pergola UPC: Does not apply
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Madison Solid Wood Pergola
This pergola is crafted from solid wood and comes with a canopy in case youd like some shade. Youll also get both an anchor/mounting kit, and the pergola is incredibly sturdy, durable and long-lasting. Its easy to assemble and looks great with bar stools. If youd like, you can also add some flowers onto the pergola as an extra touch. In terms of space, you can fit a 6ft table under the pergola along with eight chairs around it.
An Investment That Will Pay Off For Years To Come
So when it comes time to choose the pergola to build on your deck, remember, the investment you make now will not only be enjoyed in the present, but also increase your homes value for years to come. Use the tips above to choose the perfect pergola for your outdoor deck.
And when you are ready to design the deck of your dreams and install the highest quality, made to measure pergola to create a seamless, optimized outdoor living, contact Azenco.
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Diy Clear Corrugated Covered Pergola Attached To The House And An Existing Deck
Covering our deck has been on the to-do list since last year when we refinished our old deck with new paint and stain. For this project we built a DIY covered pergola attached to the house and attached to our existing deck. We then covered the DIY pergola with clear corrugated plastic roofing sheets to create a dry, sunny, outdoor living space. Here is the complete DIY tutorial for building a clear corrugated covered pergola attached to the house and an existing deck!
Things To Consider When Adding A Pergola For Your Terrace
If you have a terrace that is accessible from multiple rooms in your home, a pergola on terrace can not only provide shaded space to relax, but it can also create a covered walkway between those rooms. With the customizable designs of todays modern pergolas, you could even combine solid fixed-roof zones with adjustable louvered-roof zones to create a truly dynamic outdoor living space. This mixed roof pergola on terrace design would allow the high traffic areas to be covered by fulltime shade structures while the gathering space or outdoor dining space is situated under an automated louvered roof where you can enjoy full sun or full shade at the push of a button.
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What To Consider Before Building A Pergola On Your Deck
While building a pergola is a fairly simple DIY project to undertake if youve already got rudimentary skills, there is a difference between building a freestanding pergola on an existing deck and building one into the ground. Here is what you should bear in mind:
- Check with your local building regulations about whether you need to get planning permission before building a pergola as rules will vary.
- When building your own pergola, you need to be extremely attentive to the structural integrity and safety of your structure. The best tip is to make sure your deck pergola is not top-heavy, so you dont risk it caving in.
- As a pergola on a deck will be higher than one in the ground, it will have greater exposure to wind and adverse weather conditions. Make sure to invest in pressure treated wood to ensure maximum structural safety.
The Pergola Size You Choose Determines The Number Of Posts
All of our full size attached pergola kits have been engineered with two posts for sizes 8×8 up to 20×20. 20×20 is the largest standard pergola kit size offered on our website. You can request a larger size by completing our custom quote request form, or by contacting us by phone or email. Once you go over 20 feet overall in either direction we will need to add extra support posts to bear the weight of the pergola.
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