Your Pergola May Be A Waste Of Money Unless You Know These Simple Rules

With a simple outdoor grill and a few benches, you already have a basic backyard perfect for cookouts and get-togethers. But if you really want to design the perfect patio, pergolas are almost non-negotiable. They are undeniably affordable and stylish backyard upgrades, adding architectural charm and value to your patio or deck. They also extend your living space and can be necessary resting spots in your garden. However, there are a few things you should know before installing a fancy pergola, so it doesn't turn out to be a waste of money. 

The biggest mistake? Shade — or rather, the lack of it. Most pergolas are built with open slats, so they don't block much sun. On a scorching summer afternoon, your "outdoor retreat" can quickly become a sunbathing spot you never asked for. Without shade, the pergola loses its functionality as a comfortable living space. And if you're not using it, was it really worth the investment? 

While there are a ton of shading options, you can actually still keep your pergola looking traditional and have some shade. You'll just have to ask a professional to undertake a shade study. This is an analysis of the environment and the sun's rays to determine the perfect placement and design for your pergola to provide optimal comfort. It will help you know the right spot or height for your roofing beams to provide the best possible shade.

A popular choice is to grow creeping vines to create a natural shade for your pergola. These plants weave through the beams, creating a natural canopy that filters sunlight while adding lush greenery. But you should know that it would take a while, possibly years, for these plants to grow and cover your pergola. Wisteria is a common climbing plant that grows fast, but it needs pruning and is very invasive. Others could easily die out in the winter or summer, so an evergreen climber like star jasmine would be a good idea.

For a more permanent fixture, you can get fixed roofs or incorporate solar panels into the roofing system. A fixed pergola roof with polycarbonate panels is a great choice that blocks UV rays while still letting in diffused light. For less permanent options, consider retractable canopies or shade sails. A retractable canopy gives you complete control over shade — open it up for sunny brunches, then pull it closed when the afternoon heat becomes unbearable. Shade sails are a good idea that will give your pergola instant coverage, and they are simple to install. Just be mindful of wind and rain if you live in a storm-prone area. Going for louvred roofs will give you complete shade control by simply adjusting the slats to let in just the right amount of light or shade. If you don't mind a good home project, you can also weatherproof your backyard pergola with a beautiful floral DIY.

Aside from shade, there are many other ways to maximize your pergola's usefulness. Privacy screens, for example, can turn this exposed backyard structure into a secluded retreat. They'll perform a dual function: protection from the sun and increasing privacy. You can go for sheer curtains or lattice panels for an airy feel, or opt for thicker drapes if your focus is on privacy. 

Incorporating lighting options can be a good idea to make your pergola usable at night.  You can try string lighting along the ceiling of your pergola, sconces on the pergola beams, or LED lights thoughtfully spaced to provide adequate lighting without being blinding. Using your pergola at night means you will need sufficient protection from the cold. Infrared lamps, braziers, and outdoor stoves can be great ways to solve this problem. These heating options are more efficient when paired with side panels. These panels are weatherproof and will protect the interior of your pergola from the rain, making it functional in every weather condition. 

Finally, furniture choice absolutely matters. It wouldn't be practical to pick furniture that isn't weather-resistant for your pergola. Whether you decide on a permanent roof or not, you need to choose durable furniture materials that will last for you through rain and sun.