Is a Pergola a Permanent Structure?

A pergola is traditionally a wood structure or backyard embellishment used to climb vines and provide shade from direct sunlight. It is typically built with four columns or vertical post, open walls, horizontal beams and decorative roofs with lattice and crawling vines on the side and top. 

There are several types of designs for Pergolas depending on the homeowners’ needs, but people often confuse pergolas with many other garden features like an arbour. The two garden features look similar, but one significant difference between the arbour and pergola is its size. An arbour is much smaller than a pergola, and arbours are mainly used to accent pathways or entrance. 

Pergolas are an ornamental structure in the garden and are designed to improve their aesthetics. Traditional pergolas are made of wood, but modern versions are now made from other materials such as metal, vinyl, aluminium and polycarbonate plastics. 

Is a pergola a permanent structure

A homeowner can build a permanent pergola structure or choose to use a portable steel or aluminium frame option. 

A permanent pergola can be customized to the shape and size the homeowner needs for their home. Homeowners can choose to have a freestanding structure or attach it to the main house, although the latter is usually preferred. However, a permanent pergola that is customized is more expensive compared to a portable one. 

If you have enough funds, a custom-built permanent pergola can be a good option and add value to your existing home. Pergolas made of timber or wood and their decorative lattice are aesthetically attractive and a great place to relax with family and friends. 

On the other hand, aluminium-framed or steel framed pergolas can provide an inexpensive option to homeowners. They can be assembled relatively quickly, disassembled, and easily transferred to another part of the property. 

Non-permanent pergolas are great for parties and events. It can also be a great option if you rent a house or property since you can always disassemble them and transfer them anywhere. 

Non-permanent pergolas can also be easily attached to existing decks since most of them have drill holes in their frame that can be bolted on to the deck. But perhaps one primary consideration when buying portable pergolas is durability and structural integrity. Aluminium framed pergolas can be a bit unstable during strong winds or bad weather. 

On the other hand, permanent pergolas made of timber or hardwood are more robust since their post or pillars are anchored to the ground. With proper maintenance, permanent wooden pergolas last longer than the portable version. Pergolas made from wood are also more aesthetically pleasing and blend well with the garden landscape. 

Building a new structure like a pergola is a fascinating project. One of the most important issues people encounter is finding out if a permit is required when adding an outdoor design like a pergola. 

Decorating a Pergola

Whether it’s a permanent or portable pergola decorating them is very easy. If attached to a deck, it can easily blend well with the deck’s pieces of furniture. It can be converted into an outdoor dining area, party venue, sitting area, and many other functions as a separate structure. 

Pergolas can be the centrepiece of a garden or pool area and decorated with curtains, hanging plants, curtains. You can also have outdoor blinds installed by Blinds Newcastle. Outdoor furnishing like chairs, tables and dining sets can also be placed in a pergola. 

There are various ways a homeowner can decorate their pergolas depending on their taste, budget, location and other factors. They can even place a built-in bench, outdoor bar, garden and even a poolside chair. 

There are DIY kits available, and homeowners can make it their weekend project to assemble and install a pergola. Pergolas typically do not have a roof and do not require a permit to build, but do not forget to coordinate with local building authorities to determine specific local requirements. For permanent customized pergolas, look for professional contractors to give you the best quality and affordable option.

Does a pergola increase the value of a home?

Pergolas are outdoor structures with four pillars supporting horizontal cross beams and decorative lattice use for shade or a place to relax. They are often decorated with plants like vines that climb or crawl to their posts, lattice and beams. If you want to enhance your home, placing a pergola will be a great idea; it can add character to your outdoor spaces.  

Many types of pergolas come in different designs and colours that can help enhance your garden and home. Pergolas can be built near the pool area, playground, park, deck, or terrace and help extend the home’s living areas. Natural foliage like vines, hanging plants and flowers can be added to bring out a natural and relaxing ambience to the pergola. 

Pergolas can be the perfect place to relax, rest and catch your breath after a long day of work. Another apparent reason for building a pergola is it enhances the resell value and beauty of your home. 

Pergolas can be made from teak, cedar, fibreglass and aluminium. There are many designs to choose from, like pergolas with a gabled roof, pergolas with retractable canopy, traditional wood pergolas and many others. 

Does a pergola increase the value of a home?

Pergolas enhance the outdoor appeal of the property, and since outdoor living is gaining popularity, it increases the value of homes. Improvements such as pergola and other outdoor improvements have a return on investment between 50% – 80%. Buyers are willing to pay for properties with well designed and lovely outdoor spaces. 

Pergolas also increase the living space of your home. The extra living space can be added to calculate the value of your home. A beautifully designed pergola would also be appealing to potential buyers, therefore increasing your property’s value. Buyers would choose a property with a nice open space and pergola compared to a bare and empty property. 

Are permits needed to build a pergola?

Typically, pergolas are open structures with no roof, and its post or pillars are not anchored deeply to the ground. Sometimes they are just attached to existing systems like decks. They are also small compared to the main home and do not alter the home’s design.  

So, generally speaking, it does not require a building permit. It is better to contact local building authorities before purchasing or building a pergola since every state or city may have a different rule. Another consideration would be your local Homeowner’s Association; you can ask them for requirements and comply as needed. 

There are cities in Australia that do not require permits for installing specific pergola designs or types. But you still have to contact them for the details. For example, in Hume and Maroondah, Victoria allows pergolas except if they are located further forward 2.5 m of the home’s front wall. In Greater Dandenong, they allow pergolas without a roof. For other pergola designs, the homeowner should secure a permit from the local authorities.