Spending more time outside in your yard has proven to be beneficial for your health. There’s fresh air, being closer to nature, and getting some well-deserved sunlight on your skin. But on those days that are just too sunny, you don’t want to miss out. You want to be able to enjoy those warm summer months as much as possible before it becomes winter again. After all, sun exposure has been shown to improve mood, help you sleep better at night, and have better mental health. A pergola might be the right solution for you. But what exactly is a pergola, and are there other benefits it can bring to you and your home? Here’s what you should know before you indulge in that next outdoor project for your home.
What Is A Pergola?
Looking for the best 12 x 12 pergola may seem like a great spur-of-the-moment purchase, but it’s not a decision you should ever rush. There are many different kinds out there to choose from, some of which might or might not fit well with your home.
A pergola is an outdoor structure that provides shade for when you want to spend time outdoors. They can make great additions to any yard, especially those that are sporting gardens. But even if you have no flowers growing or have no intention to plant any, a pergola can still work well to dress up the outside of your home. They require very little maintenance, provide a lot of privacy when you want to be outside, and can keep certain areas of your yard cooler during those hot summer months. They’re also great as an entertainment area for when you have guests over. Host a nice brunch invite friends for some iced tea, or just relax with a book in a nice lounging chair. The choice is up to you.
Doing Your Research
Pergolas come in a variety of designs, materials, and colors, so you invest some time and research into finding one that not only looks great but also matches the aesthetic of your home. Have a white picket fence around your yard? You might want to get a pergola that matches it. Want a more modern feel? Then consider a sleek metal pergola that will withstand the elements. By having an idea in mind, then you can easily add value to your home too with the addition of a pergola.
Pergolas Add Aesthetic Appeal
Pergolas are known to draw the eye and complete the look of a home. It can spruce up an outdoor space nicely since they come in so many styles. You’ll have a hard time finding a pergola style that you don’t like. So why not take the extra step to transform your yard into an inviting space for everyone? You’ll be glad you made the decision to add one.
Pergolas Are A Functional Addition
Instead of investing money in awnings that can wear out over time, a pergola gets the same job done and it lasts a lot longer. Who doesn’t want a relaxing space outdoors where they can be in the shade and still enjoy all that nature has to offer? Having a pergola allows you to host more functions at your home when you can enjoy outside. That also saves on having to clean up inside your home when you’re not feeling like it or if you have messy guests.
Pergolas make it easy for you to decorate as well. Add a nice table with some chairs, string up some lights, and you have the perfect mood for an early afternoon dinner. Most decor items work well with a pergola, so only your imagination is your limit.
Pergolas Offer A Lot Of Privacy
You can choose to have an open pergola or one you can close up if you don’t want your neighbors snooping around. You can still be outdoors without everyone knowing what your business is. Take a nap without being hassled, admire your garden in solitude, and have control over what you do in the privacy of your own yard without having to erect a fence.
Or you could go the extra mile and add some fun outdoor “curtains” so that you can really feel like you’re alone. What is a more natural barrier that can be added for privacy? Consider growing climbing plants that can cover your pergola and offer you privacy while still being a green space.
Pergolas Increase The Value Of Your Home
If you’re looking to increase the value of your home if you’re thinking of selling it in the future, then a pergola is one way to do it. It looks great, it adds some outdoor living space, and it demonstrates to potential buyers that you put in the effort to create something special. New buyers who are interested in pergolas wouldn’t have to worry about the effort of having to put one up themselves.
Keep in mind that this increase in value is dependent on which state you live in. There’s no point in erecting a pergola if it’s cold and snowing throughout the year. It also depends on whether you’re in a “hot” housing market where development and home additions are sought after.
If you’re ready to start considering adding a pergola to your home, then you should first consider how you’re going to pay for it. You might have to take out a loan, depending on the design and what materials you want to use. However, if that doesn’t seem to be a problem for you, then the next step should be looking at what kind of pergola you want, where you’re going to put it, and who’s going to construct it for you. Shop your idea around to any local contractors in your area to find one who can help you achieve your dream at an affordable cost. The last thing you want is to leave the job to an unreliable company that cares more about the money than helping your home look good.
