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Give Your Back Garden A Makeover
By Flower | August 21, 2009
Fed up with your backyard? Does it appear rather dull and disorganized – a somewhat unwelcoming space? Then building a pergola as part of a backyard makeover could be the answer.
Basically a pergola is a structure, generally made from wood but other materials are available on which climbing plants grow up. In its simplest form it is four columns supporting overheads beams. Building a pergola offers much more than simply a structure for growing climbing plants such as clematis, wisteria and roses. As a pergola is an open structure you can admire the lovely backyard views as you relax. Or entertain family and friends? And, of course a pergola is an excellent way of breaking up a backyard into defined zones.
For tips on how to build a pergola, check out how to build a pergola
It is time to go into the yard and observe. Light and warmth are important factors. What time of day does the backyard get the sun? When the wind blows what is the direction? Is the ground level? Where are any underground cables or pipes. And you certainly need to know the measurements of you backyard.
Decided that building a pergola would be a great addition to your backyard? The next thing you need to do is get out pen and paper. There are many computer based landscape design site, some of them free, but I prefer to start with pen and paper. You need time to let your ideas evolve. The planning phase of any backyard makeover should never be rushed. Remember it is very easy to change plans on a piece of paper but not so easy when building or landscaping has started. At this planning stage make sure you investigate whether permission is required for any part of your design, such as the building of a large pergola.Well thought out planning is vital if you want to avoid costly mistakes later on.
For ideas on building a pergola, check out how to build a pergola
Pergolas are available in a number of sizes. Make sure you pick a size that’s large enough for how you’ll use your pergola but one that’s not too big for the space available in the backyard.
Pergola kits are available in a variety of materials including wood. Or you could purchase a set of plans. Pergola plans are available in various sizes and will come with a list of the materials required to build your pergola along with building instructions. Cedarwood is an excellent choice for a pergola as it not only looks good but is very long lasting. A cedar pergola will give you the classic pergola look.
Does a diy a pergola sound too much like hard work? A very cost effective option is to buy your pergola plan and hire a local handyman to build the pergola for you. You’ll make a great saving compare to buying a pergola kit.
And, when all the hard work is done, you’ll have a lovely backyard to enjoy.
For more information, check out pergola designs
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