Top Benefits of Installing a Free-Standing Pergola Kit for Your Space

Top Benefits of Installing a Free-Standing Pergola Kit for Your Space

What is a Freestanding Pergola Kit?

A freestanding pergola kit is a pre-fabricated outdoor structure consisting of vertical posts, horizontal beams, and a roof structure that may include an open concept or louvers and slats.

If you are choosing louvers to fill in your roof space, you can go with motorized or fixed options, giving you full control of how much sun or shade you need.

Pergola kits are generally manufactured out of a wide variety of materials such as wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Depending on where you reside will determine the best material for you to use.

One of the key reasons to add a pergola to your backyard space is for shade creation and the ability to keep out the elements, such as snow and rain. It is also an aesthetically pleasing structure that will add style and ambiance to your space.

Benefits of Installing a Freestanding Pergola Kit

There are many benefits to owning a pergola kit. As discussed above, Shade creation is the most common reason for folks to add a pergola. This will allow for an easy and comfortable place for your guests to hang out all while keeping out the harsh sun and other elements.

Pergolas will enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Pergolas are also perfect for dining, lounging, and socializing giving you a seamless transition from your indoor space to your outdoor living space.

Pergolas are also a great way to add curb appeal to your home and add value to your home, thus making it more attractive to potential buyers.

A pergola can give you a sense of definition and create a clearly defined spot for entertaining your guests.

Choosing the Right Pergola Kit

Pergola Style

When choosing a pergola, it's important to consider the style of your home and outdoor space. Be sure to pick a pergola that will best fit your space.

Whether your home is more modern, traditional, or perhaps custom, a pergola is a wonderful addition to your space.

Have a good understanding of the amount of shaded area you need to best determine the proper sized pergola for your space.

Pergola Sizes

As discussed above, it's important to measure your outdoor space to determine the right size pergola kit that will best suit your needs. Have a good understanding of any furniture you would like to fit underneath and make sure you choose a pergola that will work best.

Taking into account the overhead height of your space is also crucial to understand before ordering any structure. Inside post to inside post, dimensions are important just to make sure you can fit any appliances or furniture under the space and that they will fit.

Pergola Building Material

Pergolas are most commonly found in Wood, Vinyl, and aluminum. Depending on where you are located will determine the best and proper material for your space.

Wood is the classic and timeless choice and works well with traditional-style homes. It is a strong material and can be painted or stained to match other materials and items in your home or outdoor space. The downside of wood is that it tends to rot and become infested with insects over time if not properly maintained.

Vinyl is a very popular option. Vinyl is virtually maintenance-free and is simple to clean. On the other hand, vinyl also tends to expand and contract causing warping. If vinyl is in a climate with lots of changing temperatures, from hot to cold, it will cause this issue. If choosing vinyl, be sure you are in a moderate climate that doesn't change much.

Aluminum is by far the best choice of the three. If you are looking for a material that is strong, durable and requires very little maintenance, aluminum is the clear winner.

Also, consider your budget before choosing your pergola style and material. Wood and aluminum are typically a bit more expensive than vinyl.

Features to Consider When Buying a Pergola Kit

Wind Resistance

If adding a pergola in a hurricane zone, it is a must to purchase one that is built to withstand heavy winds. Consider materials such as aluminum that are secured and anchored into concrete footings.

You don't want to install a pergola more than once. It is important to choose wisely the first time around and to choose an aluminum frame pergola. This will allow you to withstand strong storms and winds for decades to come.

Frame Strength

Using a heavy-duty aluminum extrusion will give you a sturdy and reliable pergola. Be sure to understand the overall weight of your pergola to make sure you are anchoring into footers that are the correct diameter and depth.

Using stainless steel hardware and thick aluminum extrusions is the best way to go. This will help with salt spray and corrosion that can build up over time.

Roofing Options

The best bang for your buck for your roofing options would be louvers. With motorized louvers as your chosen option, you will get louver operation up to 135 degrees. This will allow you to have full control over how much sun you let in or shade you create.

A fixed roof is another common option. This will give you shade at all times. There is less flexibility with this type of slat but is still a popular option.

DIY Pergola Designs for Extra Shade

Do you live in a hot, humid climate? If so, a DIY pergola is perfect to give you all the extra shade you can handle. This will extend your outdoor space and will give you the perfect place to entertain, host, and relax after a long day at the office.

Adding a DIY pergola to your space is a great way to save a few bucks. Installation can get a bit expensive. If you are mechanically inclined, installing a pergola on your own is the way to go.

If you live in a place like South Florida, it may make sense to work with a local design team and contractor to finish the project. Local contractors will have a much better understanding of local building codes, and licenses and will know whether or not a permit will need to be pulled.

Why Buy a Freestanding Pergola Kit?

Freestanding pergola kits are easy to install and require minimal maintenance. They are a cost-effective way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

A free-standing pergola kit is a great way to create a sense of structure and can add a defined space to your backyard. Increasing your home value is another huge benefit of adding a pergola to your space.