Because of its innate strength, pultruded fiberglass allows for a very open structure with spans up to 22’ and a reduced number of support columns. Like aluminum and cPVC, fiberglass pergolas are low-maintenance and incredibly strong. The increased flexibility of this material allows for added customization with curves and arches if desired. The rafters, beams, and ledgers of a cPVC pergola feature an aluminum core that is wrapped with cellular PVC, and the stringers are solid cPVC. cPVCĬellular PVC (cPVC) is an incredibly strong and durable material perfect for commercial applications with high traffic areas. Structureworks aluminum pergolas are fully customizable and are finished with a powder coat finish. Virtually indestructible, aluminum is perfect for commercial applications where the structure will get a lot of use. Making sure to choose the right material to fit both your durability and sizing needs is essential to getting the perfect pergola. Ultimately, the material that you choose for the pergola will dictate how the pergola is sized. Canopies come in a variety of colors and styles and can be used to complete a pergola’s design. CanopyĪ canopy can be added to the pergola to increase the amount of shade underneath the structure. Beams typically cantilever 24” from the center of the columns, and rafters typically cantilever 21” from the center of the columns. The cantilever is the amount of overhang of the beams, rafters or stringers. The ledger board runs along the support structure wall for an attached pergola and supports the rafters where they meet the support structure. This measurement is dependent on whether the pergola is freestanding (left) or attached (right). The projection of a pergola is measured from one end of the rafter to the other. This will be the same whether the pergola is attached or freestanding. The width of a pergola is measured from one end of the beam to the other. If you’re seeking more shade the number of stringers can be increased to provide an even greater amount of shade. Structureworks vinyl pergola kits and cPVC pergola kits include 1 ½” square stringers and fiberglass pergola kits include 1 ¾” square stringers evenly spaced across the top of the pergola. Stringers are the main shade producing component, are supported by the rafters and run perpendicular to them. The ends of the rafters can be decorative with a standard design, or use a custom end design. cPVC pergola kits include 1 ½” x 7 ¼” rafters. Structureworks vinyl pergola kits include 2” x 6” rafters while the fiberglass pergola kits include 2” x 8” rafters. Rafters offer the first layer of shade, are supported by the beams and run perpendicular to them. The ends of the beams can be decorative with a standard design, or by creating a custom end design. cPVC pergolas feature beams that are 3 ½” x 9 ½”. Structureworks vinyl pergola kits and fiberglass pergola kits both feature two full size 2” x 8” beams on each side of a freestanding pergola and on one side of an attached pergola. Columns are offered in a variety of styles to perfectly compliment the rest of the design.īeams are supported by the columns and run the width of a pergola or shade structure. Columns/PostsĬolumns are usually the base of a structure and support the beams on each side of the pergola. FreestandingĪ freestanding pergola is supported by 4 or more columns and does not rely on a wall for support. The structure may be supported by columns on one side, completely by walls on two sides or a combination of both. AttachedĪn attached pergola uses an existing support structure wall or walls as support. Understanding terminology associated with pergolas will go a long way in helping to measure for the correct size pergola, ensuring that installation goes smoothly, and the outdoor space can be enjoyed quickly. When making size determinations, it’s important to understand what purpose the structure will fulfill and make the material and size determinations based on the desired need. The pergola size is up to you and most standard pergola dimensions can be adjusted and customized so the structure fits your client’s needs perfectly. Just as the uses for pergolas vary widely, so do the designs. The uses for a pergola extend as far as your imagination. Placed over a outdoor fireplace or fire pit, they become a cozy gathering place where s’mores can be roasted and stories shared. They can function as a simple shade structure over a sitting area or become an extension of a living space, housing an outdoor kitchen or bar. Pergolas are a great and versatile addition to nearly any landscape design.
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