In sunny climates, pergolas are traditionally used to give shade to a path. In less sunny climates, such as in the United Kingdom, pergolas are more often used as a roof transition from the inside of the house to the garden or, alternatively, they can act as support for climbing flowers and rambling plants.
In urban areas, where gardens are often overlooked, a pergola can create a measure of privacy, without giving a 'blocked in' feeling. A pergola structure over a terraced area or patio also helps to create the sense of an 'outdoor room'. A well-positioned archway over a path not only breaks up a long, uninterrupted view but, at the same time, also makes a frame for a portion of the garden that can be seen from a distance.
The design of pergolas and archways should be as simple as possible because their true function is to support plants and those should be the stars of the show, not the fancy details in your construction. Arches and pergolas are available as standard-sized kits but in a variety of styles, so with a little research, it should be relatively easy to find a size and design that suits your taste and requirements. Many kits come with trellis side panels. If you are constructing your own archway, you may need to cut them to size and add a supporting framework if you don't construct to 'standard' sizes.
Remember to treat all timber with wood preservative prior to construction. This will keep it strong and attractive for longer.
Useful Tips - Pergolas
- Treat all timber with wood preservative before construction and reapply regularly afterwards to maintain its condition.
- You can attach a pergola directly to the side of your home more easily if you sit the timbers in 'L'-shaped metal shoes plugged into the walls.
- Trained vines or hops over pergolas and arches will give shade in summer and let in light in winter.
- Consider the scale and proportion of pergolas and arches in relation to the garden features – large trees or changes in levels –as well as your house.
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