Pergolas are a great addition to any outdoor space, as they provide ample shade, as well as give you a lovely place to sit and enjoy the outdoors. Having a pergola installed this summer is going to make you fall in love with your yard again. After you’ve decided you want a pergola in your yard, then comes the decision-making process of what sort of covering material you’re looking for.
Some pergola coverings are open to the sky. This means that they will provide shade, but they won’t protect you from rain. Other options will provide actual shelter from the elements in addition to the shade they give off. There are pros and cons to each covering option you have, and we’re going to discuss them so you can make the best decision for yourself.
- Metal Roofing
If you’re looking for a durable, heavy duty option for your pergola, metal might be the perfect choice for you. Since it takes a lot to affect the metal, they’re incredible long lasting. Using metal as a roofing material is one of the fully covered options. Sheets of steel, copper, tin, or aluminum are laid on top of the horizontal wooden slats to create shade and shelter.
Steel is going to be the most expensive metal option, but also the most durable against the elements. Tin and aluminum are more affordable and a bit lighter, but still quite sturdy. Metal roofing isn’t for everyone though. While some people find the sound of rain hitting the metal soothing, others might not. This is important to take into consideration when deciding what roofing will be best for your pergola!
- Wood
Wood is of course the go-to for pergolas. It’s easily affordable depending on the type of wood you choose and can be customized with stains or paint to give you any look you want. Using wood as a covering for your pergola is nice because you can choose to leave it open to the sky with just the horizontal slats for shade, add a second layer of slats that run perpendicular to the first layer for more shade and coverage while still being open to the sky, or completely cover the pergola with the wood. This allows for easy customization and can be perfect for anyone and everyone.
- Fabric
Using fabric to cover your pergola is a great way to add more color and make the space more dynamic. Fabric allows some light to peek through while still providing plenty of shade and shelter. Certain fabrics even provide UV protection, which can extend the life of any furniture you have placed underneath your pergola and minimize the heat around you while you relax.
Fabrics come in various materials that have different properties and can be beneficial for different needs. Since any design can be printed on fabric as well, it allows you to choose whatever you think would look best in your space. For anyone looking for a very niche style or design, fabric covering for your pergola is likely going to be the best option.
- Plastic/Fiberglass
If you’re looking for a way to stay dry not matter the weather but allow plenty of light in when it’s sunny, plastic or fiberglass may be the best covering for your pergola. You get complete shelter, but you can still enjoy the sun. Plastic and fiberglass both are great at protecting against harmful UV rays, too. This means you can safely enjoy your relaxation time.
These materials are easily cut to whatever size you need. You can also have tint added to either to give a bit more shade or add a fun color to your pergola. Fiberglass is also a great eco-friendly option since it’s made from recycled materials. No matter what option you decide is best for you, call us to have your pergola constructed and installed! We’ve been handling pergola installation in the Brazos Valley for years and can guarantee a perfect end product. Give us a call or fill out the form on our contact page today to get a free estimate on your pergola construction.
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