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Not to be confused with a trellis, arbor, gazebo or cabana - an outdoor pergola is an open structure with vertical posts and open, flat horizontal rafters on the top and is designed to support climbing plants. Straight lines are the usual basis of an outdoor pergola's structure; but there are diverse outdoor pergola designs. It can be free-standing or you can attach it to your home. An outdoor pergola is commonly rectangular; but it can also be square, round, semi-circular or curvilinear.
Suitable Locations for an Outdoor Pergola
An outdoor pergola can be placed over your patio or your pool deck, or constructed in any area of your garden to serve as its focal point. You can also place an outdoor pergola in the sitting area of your garden -a place for just sitting back and enjoying the company of family and friends, or relishing a quiet moment with yourself. An outdoor pergola need not be a sitting area only - it can be a dining area especially during summer or simply a shaded place to walk through to enjoy the beauty of your garden.
Enhancing an Outdoor Pergola
To enhance your outdoor pergola, cover it with vines. Make the vines climb from the columns to the top - choose the vines that will emphasize the splendor of your outdoor pergola. Examples of suitable vines for this purpose are roses, wisteria or akebia - know, however, that wisteria is a strong vine and can wreak havoc with your outdoor pergola. Consult your local horticulturist for advise on safe and low maintenance flowering or non-flowering vines suitable for your outdoor pergola.
If you want maximum shade, consider using a thicker latticework on top of the pergola, placing an outdoor awning or a pergola roof. There are many types of roofing for an outdoor pergola - metal, fiberglass, and plastic. The latter two allow bits of sunlight inside but blocks the passage of harmful ultraviolet rays. Pergola roofing allows you to view your garden even during rainy days. Enjoy the loveliness of rain-drenched flowers and plants and listen closely, for beneath the sound of soft rain is its calming rhythm.
An outdoor pergola is usually made of wood with its natural color or it can be painted white as many pergolas are. However, think outside of the box - you can paint your outdoor pergola with any color such as a soft or dark green to blend with the colors of your garden. Many types of wood can be used - although experts say that cedar, like wine, ages gracefully. There are also pergolas made of vinyl or fiberglass.
Outdoor Pergola Curtains
Transport your outdoor pergola to a loftier level of style and tranquility - use outdoor pergola curtains. There are different types of fabrics for these curtains such as those made of breathable fabrics to keep you cool and comfortable during scorching days, waterproof fabrics and many more. There are ready-made curtains or you can have these custom-made.
Outdoor Pergola Lighting
Outdoor pergola lights extend the usability and attractiveness of your garden and the outside area of your home throughout the day and the night. You can add shaded lamps for reading or playing games. You can also use 'up lighting' to reflect the wood panels of your outdoor pergola or add down lights for dramatic accents. Keep the wires hidden and use single pole switches to control their use.
Seize the day and enjoy moments of your life with family and friends in the outdoor pergola in your garden.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about garden furniture and gardening articles at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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