Best Pergola Cover Ideas
Covering your pergola with a waterproof cover not only keep out rain but also protect your structure from water based damages including rust, mold and rotting. The cover also block the harmful UV rays from the sun. Here are great pergola roof cover ideas for shade, privacy and protection from rain, UV rays and snow.
Mounting The Patio Roof Ledger
Procedures for mounting a ledger depend on the type of siding on the house. Relatively flat siding can remain intact, but clapboard, beveled wood, metal, or vinyl siding should always be cut away.
If you have beveled horizontal siding, then use an inverted piece of siding, as shown in the illustration here, to create a plumb, flat surface for attaching the ledger.
If your siding is not beveled, you can simply screw the ledger tightly to it.
Remove enough of the siding so you can tuck flashing behind the siding above the ledger and allow it to overhang the siding below the ledger.
When cutting wood siding, adjust the blade of the circular saw so it cuts just the siding and not the sheathing underneath. Also, do not let the blade cut beyond the layout lines. If you are cutting vinyl siding, you can use a sharp utility knife instead.
A ledger should be affixed to strong parts of the houses framing, such as second-floor joists or wall studs. The strongest ledger connection relies on bolts that run through the ledger and the house sheathing and rim or band joist and then are fastened with nuts and washers affixed from the other side. When access to the other side is unfeasible, use lag screws with washers instead of bolts, as shown in the illustration.
If it is impossible to attach the ledger to a floor joist, then fasten the ledger to wall studs, which are generally located on 16-inch centers and doubled up around doors, windows, and other openings.
What Should I Cover My Pergola With For Shade
A fabric cover provides shade, but for rain or snow protection youll need something more sturdy. You can purchase a pergola with a metal roof, or you can build your own waterproof cover out of corrugated metal or plastic. As a bonus, the raindrops will sound beautiful as they hit the solid pergola cover.
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Corrugated / Flat Panels
A much more cost-friendly solution, it is now possible to buy a whole array of different styles, sizes and materials with various fixings from plain old screws to more optimized solutions that are less likely to leak or make your pergola rot. In order to maintain the same amount of light, in my research, I was looking at clear or lightly tinted panels rather than changing the concept of a Pergola and going for a solid dark roof.
I was initially not interested in using these but having investigated them they are now of real interest. I like them as I could add them to my existing structures and they are compatible with other shade methods, including growing vines and they would still work with the sliding fabric panels if more shade was required.
Having checked some reviews it seems that Fiberglass panels will craze/cloud quite quickly, which will change the appearance and amount of light they allow.
The PVC panels are an improvement but are still quite brittle and susceptible to cracking , although they are more scratch-resistant than polycarbonate.
The strongest and longest-lasting would be the Polycarbonate panels but they are also the most expensive and can last 10-20 years!
Most polycarbonate sheets come with specialist UV coating but for residential applications, it is usually only on one side of the panel. You have to check that it is installed with the UV coating upwards.
Measure The Roof Valley
Measure each roof valley from the lower end to the upper end and multiply the result by two, which provides nailers for each side the valley. Count the number of penetrations, such as duct vents and pipe risers that go through the roof. Include 4 feet of stripping for each, which translates to 12-inch-long nailers at all sides of a penetration.
Obtain one-by-three framing lumber for the nailers based on your measurements and calculations. Include 1 pound of 8d framing nails for every 100 square feet of the roof.
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Installing A Clear Pergola Roof Was The Best Decision Ever It Has Turned Our Side Yard Is A Three Season Patio That We Can Enjoy In Any Weather
We love our new patio pergola, but the only thing that could make it better was installing a clear pergola roof. Now even if it decides to rain for an entire month , we can still enjoy gatherings on the patio.
Adding a roof to a pergola seems like a big deal, but we partnered with the Home Depot to make it easy! Now we cannot wait for another storm so we can test out our new clear pergola roof.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
After installing the SunTuf corrugated roofing on the kids outdoor playhouse, I knew I wanted to use it again. It looks so nice and is absolutely DIY friendly.
But my favorite part is that it lets the light in but blocks out the UV rays. Blocking UV rays on the patio means all our patio furniture will last longer. No more fading and sun bleaching! And we can enjoy the patio even if the weather decides to rain out another of our parties!
The biggest decision we had was whether to use the same Solar Gray color on the patio as we had on the playhouse roof. I love that the playhouse has the extra shading so the kids can play in it all summer long and it stays a bit cooler.
Originally I had planned on using the shading color for the patio pergola too. Then I realized the patio is completely shaded by the house in the late afternoon on and our neighbors trees block most of the direct sun in the morning, so we would only have direct sun for a small portion of the day.
Translucent Fiberglass Patio Roof
Fiberglass is very versatile. Therefore, you can use it as the roof of your patio.
Fiberglass is pretty light and flexible. Its flexibility and weight make it quite favorable when it comes to patio roof.
Besides, fiberglass is quite cheap, but it can make your patio look more beautiful just like the one in this picture.
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Fastening A Patio Roof To The House
Expert advice on how to attach a patio roof to a house, with step-by-step instructions and construction diagrams.
A house-attached patio roof takes advantage of the houses structure by supporting one end of the roof on a ledger mounted horizontally to the house. The ledger, typically a 2 by 6, is usually designed to hold one end of the patio-roof rafters. Locating and mounting the ledger is normally a fairly easy process the ledger should be attached before the foundation is built for a deck, patio roof posts, and other structure.
What Are The Benefits Of Having Solar Panels On A Pergola
Think of solar pergolas as somewhat similar to RV solar awnings. Awnings are used to generate additional power, and the same thing applies to pergolas and other garden structures.
Solar pergolas can provide extra sources of power. You could use these as outdoor lights. Some people use solar lights to enhance their plants and gardens, and solar pergolas can do the same. Pergolas, patios and gazebos look great, but add lighting they become even more so.
Affordable power. Solar power is cheaper than electricity in the long term. You can save money by using solar power instead and it doesnt take long to install them either.
Easy installation. You can install a portable solar panel on your pergola without having to mess around with wires. A small PV module can light the surrounding area easily. This is the ideal scenario and you wont need a large solar panel to make it work.
Tax credit eligible. Solar pergolas are eligible for tax credits and any other solar incentives your state provides. You dont have to pay any property tax on it and this does not even count the money you save.
Visually appealing. Pergolas are striking to look at. It draws attention and is a great place to relax and entertain guests. When you turn on the lights at night, it becomes even more visually arresting.
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Benefits Of Putting A Roof On Your Pergola
A pergola can be a fantastic addition to a backyard space for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you want an outdoor dining space or sitting area. Maybe you envision a beautiful lounging area by your poolside. Whatever you intend to use it for, pergolas are an easy way to add class and beauty to your outdoor space.
There are many benefits to adding a roof to your pergola.
- You will be protected from the elements
- It reduces the amount of upkeep needed
- It can add dimension to an otherwise empty backyard
- A roof on your pergola can raise the resale value of your home
- It gives you some extra privacy in your outdoor space
If you are considering adding a roof to your pergola, these reasons just may tip the scales in your favor. Read on to learn more about these benefits and how to maximize your outdoor space!
A Roof Can Raise The Value Of Your Home
When considering permanent improvements to your home, resale value is often one of the first considerations. Whether you intend to sell your home in the future or not, there are many benefits to increasing its value.
- An increased home value increases your personal net worth. This works in your favor if you ever need a loan or wish to refinance your home for whatever reason.
- Even if you do not currently plan to sell your home, life happens. Perhaps your home will be too big for you when your children grow up or maybe you accept a job that requires relocation.
- If you are mortgaging your home, increasing the value of your home also positively impacts your debt ratios, opening up the new mortgage and insurance options.
That said, a permanent roof on your pergola is an easy way to add a bit of value to your home. Buyers and appraisers alike can appreciate the other benefits to having a roofed pergola, same as you.
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Ground Mounted Solar Vs Solar Pergolas Patios And Gazebos
Ground mounted solar panels are appealing for many reasons. They are easier to install being on the ground, and fixing is quicker too. You dont have to go up the roof to give it a good cleaning either. In terms of convenience it has the advantage over rooftops or pergolas.
There are two major drawbacks. One is being lower on the ground means lower output. There is no way a ground mount solar panel can match the output of a solar pergola, let alone a rooftop panel.
The even bigger disadvantage is the space requirement. You need sizeable land to install a solar panel big enough to run a house. You also have to get a permit from the local government before you can proceed with the installation. Unless you own a large land, ground mount solar panels is not an option.
Roofing An Enclosed Building
For enclosed buildings, you can apply roofing felt before adding the panels by stapling every 3 inches on the outside of the felt and about 5 to 7 inches on the interior. Foil-backed single bubble insulation can also be used under metal roofing. Foil-backed bubble insulation has an R-value of approx. 9.2 and blocks 97 percent of radiant heat energy.
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Cover Attached To Top Of Pergola
The methods mentioned above for attaching shade cloth to the top of your Pergola would still be valid for canvas materials, making it suitable for heavier rain, as long as there is enough slope to ensure they drain. I found three different methods for attaching the cloth that if the whole roof structure of the pergola has a slope would still work. Check out How to Attach Cloth to Cover a Pergola. The main issue I can imagine is if using the batten technique you might trap water in the lower corners that may encourage the material to rot. Ensuring the water can all escape by maybe angling the battens and leaving a suitable gap at the corners should be sufficient.
Pergola Installation Mistake No : Are You Up To It
Our pergola kits are easy to install, with plans that are carefully written. But for some, researching how to install a pergola isnt the same as actually installing a pergola. All of these pergola installation tips and instructions wont help if you or someone working with you isnt ready for the physical challenge of assembling it.
Not to worry! Were here to help you with that dream pergola so you can enjoy the best installation possible. If you dont feel that youre up to installing it yourself, or staining the wood once its up, we have resources to help you, including a list of pergola builders near you.
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Raise The Roof By 500 Millimeters
You can raise the patio roof up to 500 millimeters by removing the eaves, fascia, and gutter. After that, cut the rafters back to the wall line.
The back channel is connected to the rafter directly and reinforced. By doing this method, you will have a clean finish that is connected to the wall line.
But, you may also need to install transfer flashings on top to complete the look.
Putting The Construction Together
You will most likely need one more person for this step.
Firstly put the front support upright, 195cm away from the wall and in line with the foundation posts attached to the wall earlier. Now place one of the 195cm posts at the top of the foundation post and slot the other end into the front frame joint. Secure the construction with screws, making sure you predrill holes to avoid splits or cracks.
Now, take the remaining 3m post and place it at the top of the 195cm posts, against the wall. Secure it to the wall in the same way as the foundation posts.
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Essential Materials And Tools
Timber wood or metal bars for the frame, roofing material such as metal sheets, shingles, non-metallic tiles, Carpenters pencil, hammer, ladder, spade, corded saw, box level, wraparound safety eye protector, drill drivers, etc.
The roofing material can be corrugated metal, shingles, and even non-metallic tiles. The choice of material can greatly influence the longevity and appearance of the structure.
This article is mainly based on installation of wooden frame and posts. If you have difficulty with timber maintenance, then non-rust, high-quality metal can also be used for building the frame of the pitched roof.
Consult your contractor about differences in durability, convenience, maintenance requirements and budget issues to be more decisive on these aspects.
If you have experience with roofing, then trying out DIY ideas is a worthy option for saving money. However, it can be a waste of resources if you are a novice.
There is always a solution if you contact a professional contractor for the project who can provide interesting pitched roof pergola kits, show multiple designs, and complete the work within a short span of time.
What Material Should Your Pergola Roof Be Made Of
Roofed pergolas have a certain elegance to them. But more importantly, they provide functionality and durability this depends significantly on what material the roof is made of.
Choose whats right for you depending on the weather conditions in your locale. Imagine having a fabric roof that isnt waterproof in a city where it rains all week. No one wants to deal with the aftermath of that!
So lets explore your options
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Solar Pergolas Vs Patios Vs Gazebos
Technically these three are different. A pergola is a structure that provides covering for a patio, while a gazebo is an area in the garden reserved for seating.
When talking about solar panels however, a pergola, gazebo, patio plus carports and awnings, are all called solar pergolas or solar lounge. It is an all encompassing term that describes any structure where solar panels are installed besides the roof. If you have solar panels at home and its not on the roof, it is a solar pergola.
There are many reasons why solar pergolas are gaining popularity. One is aesthetics, these structures just look better with lights on. They dont need a lot of space either, though not as small as solar fence lights. Once installed they work like regular lights except you save on electricity bills without compromising comfort.
How Do You Build Apergola With A Sloped Roof
How do you build a pergola with a sloped roof? By the help of agood set of plans.
Now, what if I told you that you could build a pergola by using your backyard and some straight sticks? You can actually create the pergola in a couple of hours with minimal tools. Why donât you try building your own?
Letâs get started on building your own pergola. First, take apiece of wood and line it up against a wall. Drill a hole in the middle of thewood. You should have about 1â³ left over, this is going to be your ridgepole or the support pole for the top of the pergola.
Now, cut a 3â³ diameter circle out of your wood and mark theedges of the ridge pole. This will help you line the wood up properly later on.Line the edges of the wood up along the mark.
Start by cutting your wood about half an inch deeper than themark, so that you can make grooves cuts through the wood and make your pergolathat much easier to build.
Make sure you donât cut all the way through, just the bareminimum amount that you need to do so you can make the grooves later.
Once you have the grooves cut, remove the ridge pole. Next, usea pocketknife to remove the wood from the grooves with no problem.
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