Build Your Own Patio Roof and Pergola Building a Patio Roof or Pergola
A patio roof or pergola is an attractive roofing option to cover decks and other outdoor areas. With the appropriate design and construction, it can also add function, aesthetic appeal and value to your home. Several factors come into play such as materials, location, style and privacy so that it's best to leave it to a specialist who knows how to design and build such structures to give you the best result.
A patio roof is a structure with a covering whereas a pergola is an open beam structure with no roof covering. The latter has limited uses but can still be a stunning option for areas not intended to be used for entertaining or to achieve that Mediterranean feel, perhaps with climbers/vines planted at the base. If chosen right, these will eventually cover the whole frame
Types of structures
A patio or pergola can be freestanding which has the advantage of being located anywhere you want- over your pool or spa, in the middle of the garden or right next to the kids play ground, and it could take the form of a gazebo or a hut. On the other hand, one that is attached to your home is an excellent solution for extending your home area to the outdoors and provides the perfect venue for entertaining guests, dining al fresco or just relaxing with your family.
Materials
Framing materials for your patio or pergola can be made of:
* Timber, which is preferred by many because it is durable, classy, and versatile. However, it must be specially treated against termite and weather attack. The appropriate standard in Australia is H3 ( timber for external use) and you should always look for this stamp on each piece of timber used. H3 timber generally lasts at least as long as 25 years and some up to 40 years
* Steel, which makes a good looking, modern support structure and can easily be fabricated into various shapes to blend with the look of your home and garden.
Roofing materials
A cover adds function and protection using various materials such as:
* Steel sheeting which works well to keep the sun out and comes in a wide range of pre-finished colorbond colours to match the colour of your home's existing roof.
* Shadecloth, which comes in attractive colours and designs and are specially treated to provide UV protection.
* Polycarbonate sheeting which filters and allows natural light in while keeping you protected against harsh UV rays and other weather elements.
* Thatch, which lends an island feel and if carefully installed, can also provide ample protection against the elements.
* Climbing plants give a natural and romantic feel and allow natural light to enter as well.
* Concrete or terracotta tiles in a wide range of colours and profiles to match your existing roof
Basic construction steps
The following steps describe briefly how to build a patio roof or pergola:
* Design your structure. Factors like the main purpose and overall look of your home must be considered in its design which a professional designer can help you with.
* Site selection. Whether free standing or attached to your home, choosing the appropriate location before construction is important to give you an idea about the materials and groundwork preparation you will need.
* Permissions and approvals. Check your local building code for the necessary permissions and regulations that you must comply with.
* Procurement of supplies and components.
* Construction and installation. This is when you may need professional help to install posts and roofing materials, as well as screens, blinds, windows or doors for added privacy.
Other factors such as space and privacy must also be considered when choosing the location and type of patio/pergola to install. While you can easily purchase kits that you can install on your own, a qualified and licensed professional will know how to design and build a patio roof or pergola that will look stunning and that can last a long time.
A patio roof is a structure with a covering whereas a pergola is an open beam structure with no roof covering. The latter has limited uses but can still be a stunning option for areas not intended to be used for entertaining or to achieve that Mediterranean feel, perhaps with climbers/vines planted at the base. If chosen right, these will eventually cover the whole frame
Types of structures
A patio or pergola can be freestanding which has the advantage of being located anywhere you want- over your pool or spa, in the middle of the garden or right next to the kids play ground, and it could take the form of a gazebo or a hut. On the other hand, one that is attached to your home is an excellent solution for extending your home area to the outdoors and provides the perfect venue for entertaining guests, dining al fresco or just relaxing with your family.
Materials
Framing materials for your patio or pergola can be made of:
* Timber, which is preferred by many because it is durable, classy, and versatile. However, it must be specially treated against termite and weather attack. The appropriate standard in Australia is H3 ( timber for external use) and you should always look for this stamp on each piece of timber used. H3 timber generally lasts at least as long as 25 years and some up to 40 years
* Steel, which makes a good looking, modern support structure and can easily be fabricated into various shapes to blend with the look of your home and garden.
Roofing materials
A cover adds function and protection using various materials such as:
* Steel sheeting which works well to keep the sun out and comes in a wide range of pre-finished colorbond colours to match the colour of your home's existing roof.
* Shadecloth, which comes in attractive colours and designs and are specially treated to provide UV protection.
* Polycarbonate sheeting which filters and allows natural light in while keeping you protected against harsh UV rays and other weather elements.
* Thatch, which lends an island feel and if carefully installed, can also provide ample protection against the elements.
* Climbing plants give a natural and romantic feel and allow natural light to enter as well.
* Concrete or terracotta tiles in a wide range of colours and profiles to match your existing roof
Basic construction steps
The following steps describe briefly how to build a patio roof or pergola:
* Design your structure. Factors like the main purpose and overall look of your home must be considered in its design which a professional designer can help you with.
* Site selection. Whether free standing or attached to your home, choosing the appropriate location before construction is important to give you an idea about the materials and groundwork preparation you will need.
* Permissions and approvals. Check your local building code for the necessary permissions and regulations that you must comply with.
* Procurement of supplies and components.
* Construction and installation. This is when you may need professional help to install posts and roofing materials, as well as screens, blinds, windows or doors for added privacy.
Other factors such as space and privacy must also be considered when choosing the location and type of patio/pergola to install. While you can easily purchase kits that you can install on your own, a qualified and licensed professional will know how to design and build a patio roof or pergola that will look stunning and that can last a long time.
