Here's a great video on building gorgeous "environmentally green" arbors, pergolas and patio covers using Alumawood:
Outdoor_Structures such as arbors, pergolas and gazebos, are the icing on the cake of your landscape design. Not only are they eye-catching ... they are also very functional. They all greatly contribute to the overall design plan of your landscape as well.
They all command your attention more than any other facet of your landscape design. Perhaps one of the reasons why is that especially the outdoor_structures mentioned here, draw your eye upward, thus adding a new dimension to your landscape and making it appear larger and taller.
Arbors, pergolas and gazebos are the primary outdoor_structures that can add a unique design element to your garden that express your good taste, sense of style, and individuality.
No matter whether their use is functional or ornamental, there are many different and charming ways you can utilize these outdoor_structures to enhance your landscape design.
One question I'm often asked is, "What is the difference between an arbor and a pergola?
While there isn't a black and white answer on that, basically an arbor is often the entryway to your garden, or simply a design element used for climbing plants such as ivy, climbing roses, morning glory and bouganvilliea.
Their tops can be arched or straight across, and many are built with benches or planters integrated into the design of these charming outdoor_structures. I've also often seen them used to shade an outdoor swing, which creates a cozy nook to curl up and read a book, or just sit and enjoy your garden. Because of the ways they are used, they are usually smaller; i.e., not as tall or wide as most pergolas.
Pergolas on the other hand, are generally much stronger outdoor_ structures and almost always have a flat top. They can be very narrow, and used as a structure in the back of your pool to grow wisteria or trumpet vine for example, or can be placed in front of your fence with climbing green or flowering vines in order to give you more height and privacy around the perimeters of your yard. It goes without saying that when they're used in that manner, they also make a stunning focal point for your backyard.
Pergolas can be small enough to cover walkways, but are more often large enough to span a deck or patio area. Because of the open slatted design at the top of the pergola, this outdoor structure will not keep out rainwater. However, it can be designed to cast much needed shade on your outdoor seating area.
Arbors and pergolas with lattice sides and tops can also be very charming. For the lattice designed ones, you might consider planting some of the lighter climbers like clematis, honeysuckle, or trumpet vine at the base. You'll need the slatted designs with very strong support for the larger vines such as Wisteria. So basically, outdoor_structures can be either decorative, or both decorative and functional, depending on your individual needs. Vines on either type structure can create a beautiful and colorful floral focal point in your landscape.
Materials for arbors and pergolas vary greatly and can include wood, vinyl, or metal. To determine what material is best for your outdoor_structure, carefully consider the pros and cons of each type of materials in relation to your own situation and needs.
Wood lends a natural and sometimes rustic look to an arbor or pergola, and can be painted or stained to easily change its appearance. And although wood is usually the most cost effective option, it won't last as long as metal or vinyl. Some concerns with wooden outdoor structures include rotting, splintering, and decay caused by wood boring pests.
Vinyl, or a product like "trex" (a wood simulation product) on the other hand, are great maintenance-free options that won't require painting or staining. They are also resistant to rot and decay, and will last much longer than wood. Typically, the costs are higher than wood, but the strength and longevity of these materials may pay for themselves in the long run. If you decide to go with a vinyl unit, be sure to look for a UV resistant plastic that won't fade or discolor when exposed to the sun.
Metal can also be a good choice of material because again, it is very durable and long lasting. Carefully consider the type of metal, though. Iron and steel will rust, which may or may not be a desirable look for you, depending on the style of your garden. Aluminum is a good rust free metal for your outdoor_structures that is lightweight and still very strong. If you want the look of painted metal, select a product with a powder coat paint finish for durability.
Arbors and pergolas can be designed and constructed on your own, or they can easily be purchased as completed units or ready to assemble DIY outdoor_structure kits. If you decide to purchase a kit, you may find that online specialty stores and mail order catalogs have a better selection than your local garden center or nursery.
If you decide that an arbor or pergola isn't the right element for your landscape design, you might want to consider other types of structures such as trellises or gazebos.
A gazebo is one garden structure that can function as a second patio in most respects, since they are usually free-standing, have a floor, roof, railings, and often a few steps up as well. They can have outdoor furniture or benches inside as well as hanging plants. I have a neighbor who uses hers in just this way as it is directly over a lake. Further, it can double as a place to tie a bass or row boat underneath for for protection from the elements.
Many people consider gazebos to be out of their price range; however, today, you can purchase kits or plans to build your own, if you are the type who enjoys that sort of thing. Of course, if you want the "Rolls Royce" of gazebos, I would recommend the ones built by the Amish.
Whatever you decide, outdoor structures of any type are a great way to add a focal point to your landscape. They will enhance your garden's aesthetics and add a vertical element to spaces that are usually constructed on horizontal planes. Simple garden designs can turn it into graceful and beautiful areas to be admired and appreciated by all by using outdoor structures.
