Your Garden Grows

Find Out How Building A Pergola could Liven Up Your Backyard

Fed up with your backyard? Does it appear rather dull and disorganized – a somewhat unwelcoming space? Then building a pergola as part of a backyard makeover could be the answer.

A pergola is a structure, generally made on wood on which plants can climb up. A small number of overhead beams are held up by four columns. Building a pergola offers much more than simply a structure for growing climbing plants such as clematis, wisteria and roses. As a pergola is an open structure you can admire the lovely backyard views as you relax. Or would you prefer a spot to entertain friends and family? And a pergola can be a great design feature allowing the yard to be broken up into various zones.

For tips on how to build a pergola, check out pergola designs

So step into your yard and take a good look around you. Light and warmth are important factors. When does the backyard get the sun? When it’s windy which direction does it generally come from? Is there a slope and if so what is the direction? Where are any underground cables or pipes. And, naturally you’ll need to know the plot size.

Decided that a revamp of the backyard would be a good idea? Starting point is to grap a pencil and some paper. Although online garden landscape design sites are available I prefer, at least in the beginning to stick to pen and paper. You need time to let your ideas evolve. Never, ever rush the planning stage of any project. Remember it is very easy to change plans on a piece of paper but not so easy when building or landscaping has started. Before any work starts, remember to check whether any local authority permissions are required.Taking your time at this stage will certainly save you time, money and effort in the long run.

For ideas on building a pergola, check out building a pergola

Pergola come in various sizes. It is important to choose a size that fits your needs(how you plan to use it) but equally important it has to be the right size for the space available.

Pergola kits are available in a variety of materials including wood. Or you could purchase a set of plans. Pergola plans come in various sizes and you get a list of materials and instructions on how to build. An ideal material for your pergola is cedarwood. It is very hard wearing and looks good too. Cedarwood is the perfect choice for those wishing a clasic pergola look.

Want someone else to do the hard work? A very cost effective option is to buy your pergola plan and hire a local handyman to build the pergola for you. Far cheaper than purchasing a pergola kit.

And, when all the hard work is done, you’ll have a lovely backyard to enjoy.

For more information, check out building a pergola