Popular Backyard structures for your Outdoor Space? Details Inside!

Why are backyard structures important?

Are you the type of family that likes to spend time with friends and relatives, often? If so, why not extend that to your outdoor living spaces? With backyard structures, you can entertain, dine and have an overall great time, all while being outdoors.

Spending time outdoors in your new, beautiful outdoor structures, can add much enjoyment to your life and as well as value to your property.

What are some of the variety of structures available?

The most common structures available for outdoor living space expansion include: Pergola, Decks, Patios and Gazebos.

Below, I will explain several of the most popular structures available for your backyard space. Stay tuned!

Pergolas

What is a pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor structure, consisting of vertical posts and horizontal beams. Commonly, there is either an open roof or a louver style, that can operate. They are typically installed in gardens, yards or other outdoor living space to provide shade or to frame in an area.

What are some key features and benefits of a pergola?

There are several benefits of owning a pergola. I will list just a few, below:

Enhanced outdoor living - Pergolas provide an additional outdoor living space where you can entertain guests, dine or simply relax and enjoy nature. It is a huge perk of owning a pergola.

Shade and Shelter - Pergolas will allow both sunlight to come in, but also will create shade on demand. A pergola is ideal on a hot day as you can truly enjoy both sun and shade, however you like. Do you love the sound of rain falling on greenery? A motorized louvered roof pergola, will allow you enjoy the rain while not getting wet. What a concept, eh?

Privacy - Depending on how your pergola is situated or oriented, will determine how much privacy you will receive. A great idea is to also hang plants, vines or other greenery to your space. It's an inexpensive way to add privacy and beauty to your space.

Increased Property value - A well-maintained and designed pergola can add value to your home by simply improving curb appeal and adding a private retreat. Trailing plants and climbing plants can do wonders to add curb appeal.

What can be customized on a pergola?

There quite a few things on a pergola that can be customized. They can be as small as "Color" and size, all the way to accessories added (center beams/crown moulding/smart controls) and everything in between. Make sure to discuss all of these details with your contractor, as needed.

Gazebo

What is a Gazebo?

A gazebo is a freestanding structure, found outdoors, that is typically found in gardens, parks or residential properties. Typically, it consists of a roofed structure with open sides, supported by pillars and columns. They are usually seen and constructed in various types of materials such as Vinyl, Metal and Wood.

What are some advantages and characteristics about a gazebo?

A gazebo will usually offer fixed roof and will be stick built out of wood. Gazebos are very simple to customize. Built in benches, mounting area, plants etc are just a small part of what you can customize. Additional lighting can also be added to offer you a fully customizable experience.

Main differences between Gazebos and Pergolas?

While both of these structures often varying degrees of sun protection, there are a few distinct differences. A Gazebo has a solid roof structure with open sides, while a pergola canopy can offer the ability of a retractable roof.

A pergola offers tremendous updraft and the option to either shield or allow the sunlight through. A Gazebo can only offer shade and is also open on all 4 sides. Pergolas can offer the ability to control the angle of the sun, the entire time you are outside enjoying your space with friends and family.

Outdoor Patios

What is an outdoor patio? Why are they significant?

An outdoor patio is a paved or surfaced area, usually located outside of a home or building. It is specifically used for outdoor activities, entertaining guests and relaxation.

They vary, greatly, in size, shape and design, based upon the customer's budget.

Is it better to have an outdoor patio?

An outdoor patio will absolutely expand your living space, beyond the inside of your home. Having a new, beautiful hardscape patio can often add plenty of value to your home, as well.

What is the best material to build a patio out of and what should you consider prior to doing so?

The best material to build a patio out of is, generally, concrete. Concrete is durable, strong, requires little maintenance and can last for decades. It is also an ideal mounting surface for a pergola, gazebo or other outdoor structure.

Tips for decorating and furnishing your patio, below.

The first thing you need to do with your patio space is to define the usable area. If you are seeking a place for dining, entertaining or just relaxing, it is a wise move to identify these areas.

Opt for outdoor decor and furniture, as it will hold up much better in harsh elements, such as rain, sun and snow/ice. If you are choosing an intimate dining area, make sure your pergola is providing shade and uv protection while in the seating area.

Decks

What is a deck and is it right for you?

A deck is a raised platform, typically built out of wood, synthetic or other composite materials. Usually, you will see them attached to a building or home. Most commonly, a deck will be found in a residential area and will allow such things as dining, entertaining or simply relaxing.

What are some common benefits of having a deck?

Decks offer ultimate customization. You can choose wood, composite or other synthetic materials, as well as the size, shape and overall look you are going after.

What are some different deck types?

Just a few deck options are: Attached decks, freestanding decks, single level decks, multi-level decks, wraparound decks and many more. Take a good look at your space and determine what will work best for you.

Tips for maintenance and construction of your deck

If your deck is made out of wood, you will need to make sure to seal it with stain or clear coat. It will lengthen the life of your deck and allow use for years to come.

Conclusions

There are numerous types of outdoor structures available to suit your space. Do your homework and make a selection that best suits your needs. Remember, a pergola can offer maximum convenience with providing shade and protection from the sun.