New decor, potted plants and string lights are good places to start when refreshing a deck. But there are other ways you can make a big difference without a major renovation. Here are some tips that will give your deck flair, functionality and interest.

Hang Art

Art pieces made from metal, wood, glass, fiberglass and resin are weather-resistant choices, as is canvas treated to be weather-resistant.

Look for art designed for outdoor installation, including pieces made of metal. Even the most weather-resistant works should be placed out of direct sun and rain to prolong their longevity. Bringing them inside during the winter months will also help ensure they’ll last.

Alternately, you can always just find something you love and use it temporarily. That will give you a chance to change your look over the years.

Up Your Lounging Game

Embrace the dog days of summer with a dedicated spot for lounging. A hanging daybed is perfect for lazing away long, sunny afternoons.

If a daybed isn’t quite your style, or your space is limited, a hanging swing or hammock is another possibility. If you prefer to stay firmly planted on the ground, a glider might be your lounging spot of choice.

Install a Bench

Permanent or seemingly permanent benches are multipurpose additions to any deck. They provide extra seating while not taking up as much room as freestanding chaises and chairs, which is a plus if your deck is on the smaller side. They can substitute for or augment deck railings, providing a solid edging. They can also add storage space.

Add planter boxes at either end or between two benches to give you more growing space, whether it’s favorite fragrant annuals and perennials or vegetables and herbs that you can pick fresh when it’s time to prepare an outdoor meal.

Upgrade Lighting

Give your deck an enchanted nighttime glow with outdoor lighting. You can also do an updated take on string lights by running them vertically along one wall rather than stringing them overhead. Or, scatter a few lanterns throughout the space. If you don’t have them already, add step lights along the edge or near level changes to make your deck an inviting and safe space where you can still enjoy the night sky.

Provide More Privacy

A landscape screen is a simple way to block an unsightly view, add privacy, define a space or even provide decorative interest.

You can turn almost any material into a screen. Wood or lattice may be the first things to come to mind. Take the time to explore something more decorative, from metal to glass or fabric. A row of planters filled with tall grasses or small trees could serve as a living alternative.

Play Some Games

Who can resist the draw of oversize chess pieces? If chess isn’t your game, consider setting up a cornhole game, pingpong table or other outdoor activity. Add some lighting and you can continue into the evening.

Consider adding covers or an overhead structure if you want to protect the equipment from rain; you’ll also want to bring them indoors once the weather turns chilly. In the meantime, let the games begin.

Elevate Your Plants

Add some style to your space by adding planters in various sizes to the deck surface and fill them with some combination of flowering plants, small shrubs, trees, fruits, vegetables and herbs.

It’s best to keep the planters themselves slightly elevated above the deck surface to allow for runoff from watering and to prevent staining. Place a support with casters under the largest planters to make them easier to move.

Serve Up Things in Style

A counter or bar takes your deck’s functionality up a notch or two. A simple countertop mounted on the wall beneath a kitchen window can become a serving bar or eating area — and it makes shuttling food and drinks outside much easier.

If a kitchen window isn’t available or practical, a serving bar set along a wall is another option. It gives you a permanent spot for setting out drinks and food when you’re entertaining and also an opportunity for a bit of decor or lighting. A bar set on a railing provides a conversation spot while you enjoy the view.

Update the Color

If the surface itself is looking faded, give your deck a jolt of color. Painting the decking, rather than re-staining, allows you to add some personality to the space.

Paint gives you an almost unlimited palette to choose from. Shades of blue, green and brown that reflect nature’s hues have a calming effect. Brighter colors add a burst of energy to the space. Add stripes or patterns, outline the edges to add definition, create a faux finish such as a rug or tile look or add decorative elements throughout.

Be sure to choose paint that’s formulated for use on a deck. From cleaning to adding final touches, the process will take time, so be prepared for your deck to be out of commission while this is happening.

Add Shade

Adding a pergola above all or a portion of your deck may not be as time-consuming as you think. Depending on the complexity and the amount of preparation needed, including time for setting footings and staining or finishing the materials, it could take about a week to build a basic pergola.

In the end, you’ll have a shaded spot when the sun is blazing. Include some lights, whether wired in or battery operated, and it will also become an evening destination.

Do a Deep Clean

If you notice that your deck is starting to show some wear and tear, summer is a good time to give it a good cleaning or even refinish the decking and railings.

Cleaning your deck’s flooring is a good weekend project that you can probably finish in a day. In many cases, moving things off the deck and back into place may take the most time. Rent a power washer or use warm water and dish detergent, or opt for a cleaning solution formulated for your deck paired with a stiff broom.

Refinishing will take longer. You’ll need to wait 48 hours after cleaning to apply the finish, and that can take some time. It will be worth it, though, when you see how much it improves the overall look of your deck.

There are lots of ways to create a beautiful garden that won’t require an irrigation system or daily watering. Especially when water restrictions come in for the end of summer. From soil preparation to plant choices, here are some suggestions for making your garden drought-tolerant and self-sustainable.

Creating gardens tailored to withstand hot, dry weather — is something people are increasingly taking into consideration.

Here are a few drought-resistant gardening tips.

Prepare Your Soil

Professionals underline the importance of soil preparation. Organic matter - compost, manure, garden waste or organic fertilizer — is key for a soil that will be as nutrient-rich and self-sufficient as possible.

Add Mulch

Simply having good soil to start with is not enough. Protecting that soil is just as important. Mulch, mulch, mulch, whether bark or gravel, it helps slow evaporation of water from the soil. The key is to remove bare ground, high plant densities with varying rooting depths will enable good soil moisture year-round, as the soil won’t be exposed to the sun.

Practice Tough Love

If you “spoil” your plants by watering them generously, they’ll come to expect and need regular drinks, the experts say.

If you treat them “mean” from the get-go, they’ll learn to survive better. Plants get “lazy” because they’re not used to holding the water. Whereas if they’ve always had to put out roots to find water, they’ll become more robust for hotter, dryer summers. However, when starting plants off, they may need generous watering to help the roots establish.

A good soaking now and then is better for creating self-sufficient plants than daily watering. It helps them to really get as independent as possible, to get their roots down looking for their own source, rather than looking near the surface.

Making the plants work hard to survive sounds harsh, but if you train them to the hose, they will never deal with a drought. Obviously, if they’re actually dying, then you’ll need to step in — but consider their location and habitat and don’t be afraid to move things if you realize they’re in the wrong place.

Harvest Rainwater

It’s not just about watering plants more sparingly; it’s also about what to water them with. Everyone should have a rain barrel or water cistern.  They don’t have to be unsightly. “You can get water [cisterns] that have planters on top of them, and they can easily be made into a garden feature.

Tip: Before you purchase or install a rain barrel, be sure to check local bylaws.

Choose the Right Plants

Do plenty of research before letting yourself run free in the plant nursery. It is important to understand native landscapes, and then emulate the plant communities in such as way as to suit them best. This leads to less watering and maintenance and much longer-lived plantings.

As a general rule, plant silver-leaved plants, such as lavender as silver reflects the sunlight, and this feature is often a good sign a plant will be drought-tolerant. Plants that are small and have hairy leaves, retain water, and are more self-sustainable. A plant with all three — silver, small-leaved and hairy — is a great combination.

Extras

Plant Mediterranean herbs — thyme, sage, rosemarey etc — that can survive with a lot less watering.

Dry conditions in full shade can be trickier when it comes to planting so talking to a landscape architect might be helpful

Minimalist — and often thirsty — landscape design is on the way out. Instead, we should all be enjoying the naturalness of our gardens more and potentially tidying and primping them less.

One thing we could all do is reduce the amount of fossil fuel-based activities, such as hedge-cutting and mowing, that we do. Instead, let your grass grow longer while encouraging any wildflowers within the turf to bloom. 

These suggestions for decorating, remodeling and adding storage will help your home stand out in the market.

Unless you are designing your forever home, you are probably concerned with resale value when discussing renovations big or small. A home is often a person’s largest asset, so design upgrades are not only an aesthetic decision but a financial one as well. Here are some design tips that have been the most beneficial in helping houses stand out from the pack.

Make the Room Feel Bigger

Selecting and placing furniture that fits the scale of the room can go a long way in making the space feel larger than it actually is. While the actual square footage of a house will, of course, directly affect the price, perception is a powerful thing. If you can make a room feel more spacious, buyers will likely see more potential in the house.

Not Everything Has to Be New

Don’t be afraid to keep a home’s traditional elements. It’s impossible to please every potential buyer by selecting one particular style or trend; staying honest to the home’s roots can pay dividends.

Add Custom Closets

A large, functional walk-in closet will add value to any home. It’s a luxury that really excites potential buyers. Prices for installing a custom closet vary widely, but finding an affordable solution that still has a high-end look is not too difficult if you do your research.

The Kitchen Is King

If you’re going to spend money on your home, you’ll get no better bang for your buck than in the kitchen. Whether you’re an avid cook or more likely to order takeout on your way back from work, you use the kitchen for eating, drinking and storage. Even minor upgrades, such as updating light fixtures and hardware, will add value to your home.

Storage: The More The Better

There is no such thing as too much storage. It’s important to provide ample storage for multiple purposes. Under the stairs is an ideal area for pullout storage for tall items like ladders that won’t fit in standard-height closets.

A Fresh Coat of Paint Can Do Wonders

Painting is the most cost-effective way to freshen up a space. Freshly painted rooms feel updated, clean and crisp, without leaving a major dent in your wallet. When selecting paint colors, try to avoid anything too bold, as neutrals tend to be a safer choice in homes for sale.

Try to Be Energy-Efficient

Buying a home comes with many other costs beyond the sale price: closing costs, moving fees and energy bills are just a few examples. Try to offer potential buyers energy-efficient options. They can be as small as CFL or LED lightbulbs or as big as installing solar panels on your roof.

Bathroom Updates Provide a Big Return

Bathroom upgrades are second only to kitchen updates in providing a great return on investment. Since bathrooms are usually the smallest spaces in the home, a little bit can go a long way. Consider replacing outdated vanities, changing light fixtures and updating hardware.

Hire a Professional Organizer

It’s amazing what a little help can do. A professional organizer can help you create a clutter-free home. The money spent on hiring a pro for just one day will pay off when potential buyers see an organized home that feels larger and more manageable. Buying a house can be stressful, especially for first-time buyers. It might be subconscious, but a well-organized space may help to lessen that stress.

Add Curb Appeal

First impressions count. Keep the front yard tidy, water the plants and do the updates that need to be done. Peeling paint and cracked exterior walls do not make a good first impression. If you’re adding new plants, try to select ones that are low-maintenance.

Gates can be a stylish entry to your home and garden. As such, they should be treated as design features in their own right. A gate is somewhat mysterious, making you wonder what’s beyond it. Mixing materials, creating a one-of-a-kind design or incorporating special features such as an overhead arch can all turn your garden gate from ho-hum to shining star.

Getting Started

A gate should be welcoming, obvious, easy to access and effortless to use. The rest of the details — size, location and style — are up to you. They can be the entry point to your property from the sidewalk or street in your front yard, allow access to the back yard from the front, open onto a back alley or even connect your yard with a neighbor’s space.

Size

Gates can range in size from very low, maybe 3 feet high, to very tall, 8 feet high or more. A standard width for a single gate is 3 feet, which provides plenty of room for people and most basic landscaping equipment, such as a lawn mower or a wheelbarrow, to go through.

A double-wide gate is both a gracious entry as well as a practical choice for transferring larger pieces of equipment — anything from a riding mower to a small sailboat — between two spaces.

If your gate will span a driveway, consider setting the posts or supports about a foot beyond the driveway on each side. This makes it more open and also can help prevent cars from accidentally scraping the supports.

Finding Your Gate Style

A look that complements your landscape or your home’s architectural elements (or both) is a good starting point for your gate’s style. A gate that blends seamlessly with an adjoining fence creates a cohesive look throughout the landscape.

If you want to add a subtle difference or some contrast, consider an arched or scalloped top, latticework or a grid pattern, or a decorative design along the top. This might be an opportunity to add in a second material, such as pairing wood with metal or bamboo. You can also include peepholes or see-through cutouts, either for people or pets.

Choosing a gate material that contrasts with fencing or walls will turn your gate into a focal point. A metal gate set into a wood fence can span design styles from traditional to contemporary. A glass gate will modernize your look.

If the top of the gate is slightly lower than the surrounding fence, a simple frame above it can help tie it into the adjoining fence boards. If security isn’t a concern, consider going with a shorter gate, perhaps topped by a trellis, for a welcoming look. Other possibilities include replacing solid boards with latticework or adding decorative elements such as filigrees and arches to the body or top of a metal gate.

Gate Material Options

Wood and metal are the top material choices for gates. Vinyl fences pair naturally with vinyl fencing, but you can also incorporate them as a standalone element. Bamboo and glass are less commonly used but make a strong visual statement. A gate also gives you the opportunity to experiment with a blend of materials.

Wood

Wood is sturdy, easy to install and can be stained, painted or left its natural color. It is also adaptable to almost any design or style. Wood is one of the least expensive gate materials, especially if you choose a wood that is native to or grows easily in your area.

A wood gate will require regular maintenance, which can include sanding and sealing, re-staining or repainting. It will also expand and shrink over the years, and you may have to replace individual pieces that warp, bend or break or reset how the gate hangs.

It will also need to be replaced eventually. You should expect a wood gate to last 10 years at least. With regular upkeep, it will likely last longer, up to 20 years or even more.

Wood Composites

Wood composite gates and boards are made from a variety of materials, including recycled plastic. They are more durable, rot resistant and longer lasting than wood. They also hold up to extreme heat, cold and hard wear better than vinyl.

More color options that closely mimic wood are becoming available. With the right preparation, they can also be painted. Care consists of periodically hosing the boards down.

Wood composite is more expensive than wood at the onset. It also can fade over the years. You may need to replace a wood composite fence every 25 years or so.

Vinyl

If you have a vinyl fence of any style, pair it with a vinyl gate. As a material, vinyl is more expensive up-front than wood, but it also lasts longer. It’s a good choice for warm yet damp climates. It doesn’t warp, rot or shrink; it’s immune to insects and doesn’t need to be painted.

Vinyl traditionally had a fairly limited color palette, but more color options are becoming available, including ones that mimic wood tones. Repairs can be difficult, and vinyl can be damaged when exposed to extreme elements.

Vinyl is very low maintenance, only requiring periodic hosing off and occasionally scrubbing stubborn grime with a diluted dish soap mixture. Expect a vinyl gate to last 30 years or more.

Metal

Aluminum, steel and wrought iron are design stars of the metal gate world. They can create a distinctive, classical look, fit into a rustic design or add a modern sensibility. They can be a solid barrier or allow glimpses both into and outside of your yard. Though a plain metal gate with vertical bars works well for a streamlined look, adding decorative elements will make your gate stand out.

Metal gates are very sturdy and won’t fade over time. They’re a good choice for those living in cold climates, as they can handle temperature extremes.

Aluminum is lightweight and rust resistant but not as sturdy as stainless steel or wrought iron. Stainless steel provides more strength over time but can rust unless treated. Once the gate develops rust, it will need to be sanded and repainted. It is also very heavy.

Both aluminum and stainless steel are more expensive than wood, falling in the mid-range for prices, but they will last longer.

Another option is weathering steel (sometimes called Cor-Ten). It’s admired for its natural or rustic feel, although it can also work well with a contemporary design. Unlike other metal options, weathering steel is designed to develop rust over time. It will be more expensive than aluminum or stainless steel.

To reduce the rusty runoff often associated with weathering steel, detail the gate so it won’t stain surrounding materials. Install it away from the concrete or add drainage that will carry any runoff away from paving. Installing weathering steel on gravel or mulch will result in less-noticeable rust stains.

Wrought iron is the most expensive metal option but offers a timeless appeal that will work with any landscape or architectural style. Although wrought iron gates are very durable and require little upkeep, any chips or damage can open the door to rust if you don’t repair them as soon as possible.

Bamboo

Harvested bamboo is gaining popularity as a landscape material. It is a fast-growing plant, which makes it an eco-friendly material, but you need to be sure the bamboo you’re choosing is sustainably grown.

Bamboo’s density and thickness allow it to stand up to moisture much more readily than wood. It gives a landscape a rustic, natural or Asian feel. Adding a wood frame around the bamboo will give it a finished look. Bamboo stands up well to heat and snow and can be cleaned with water.

You can leave bamboo in its natural state, although it will fade with time. It also can be stained, although you’ll usually need to renew that annually. Bamboo can dent, chip, crack or split, so occasional repairs may be needed.

Bamboo is more expensive than most other gate materials. Expect a bamboo gate in a frame to last at least 20 years.

Glass

A glass gate is an uncommon choice but makes a strong statement in your landscape. It’s a great option for a contemporary or modern look. Your design opportunities are surprisingly varied, including your choice for colors. Choosing translucent glass will offer some privacy while still allowing light into your yard.

You’ll likely need to clean both sides of the glass at least as often as you’d clean windows in your home, and more often if it gets a fair amount of use. The glass can also mar and scratch. While a glass gate is cheaper than adding a full fence of glass, it will still be expensive.

Other Considerations for Adding a Gate

Finishing Touches

The right latch is just as important as the right gate. There are many hardware options to choose from, and, like the gate itself, they should be both decorative and easy to use. Look at your latch as an opportunity to dress up your gate a bit more.

Latches should also be reliable. If security is a concern, consider adding a deadbolt to the gate.

Permits And Regulations

Whether you need a permit for a gate varies widely by location, so check with your building department first for any required permits, regulations or restrictions. Homeowner associations may also have restrictions or guidelines.

Safety

If you have a pool or other “attractive nuisance” in your yard, most local codes have specific requirements regarding the size, locks and permitted materials for gates leading to that area. You can always call your area’s building department or planner and ask for guidance.

When To Do This Project

Installing a gate can be done almost any time. If you live in a cold-weather climate, you will want to tackle this project when the weather is warmer, especially if you need to install posts or dig trenches.

How Long It Will Take

Once the gate is ready to install, it will go quickly. Most gates can be put in place in a day. if you need to set posts or build the gate on site, it may take longer. Larger gates or those that require trenching or electrical work will take longer.

Whom to Hire

If you’re adding a custom gate, you’ll want to work with a fabricator or artisan who specializes in the materials you want to use.

Once a gate is ready to install, look for a licensed landscape contractor. Gates get a lot of use, so you’ll want to be sure yours is done right. If the gate is part of a fence installation, it will usually be included. You also may need added expertise to install a one-of-a-kind gate or one made with unusual materials, such as glass.

If you’re installing a gate, such as one across a driveway, that will open automatically with a remote, keypad or app, you will need additional prep work. You’ll need a fence contractor to install the gate and oversee the other work, a landscaper to trench for the electrician, an electrician to put in the conduit and wire to the gate’s operators and a company to install the operators and the controls.

A gate across a driveway will limit your access from your home if it malfunctions, so look for a reputable company with good reviews. A landscaper or pavement specialist may also be involved in finishing the paving under the gate.

Before you hire anyone, be sure they are familiar with the scope of the project and are experienced in handling the materials you want to use.

A pergola is versatile. The material it is made of and where you place it in your garden can turn it from a functional but basic structure into a one-of-a-kind statement piece. You can add lights, ceiling fans and adjustable overhead slats to entertainment systems, fire features and outdoor kitchens.

A pergola covered with plants, both on the exterior and hanging inside, is the very definition of a garden room. A pergola is the perfect spot to show off spectacular climbing or vining plants — anything from ivy and wisteria to roses and clematis. You could even add some edibles, such as tomatoes or grapes.

Here’s what to know about adding a pergola to your yard — including ideas for the design and location, the pros and cons of different materials, and whom to hire if you don’t do it yourself.

What Is a Pergola?

A classic pergola’s design is simple. It consists of four posts, which support four crossbeams or a mix of beams and rafters around the top edge of the structure. A slatted or lattice roof provides filtered shade.

A pergola has the look of an arbour and, like an arbour, is traditionally covered with climbing or vining plants. The primary difference between the two structures is size. Pergolas are designed as places for lingering rather than passing through, so they are usually much larger, with dimensions similar to those of a gazebo or pavilion. 

Who To Hire

For most homeowners, hiring a landscape architect, a designer or contractor is a good idea for adding a custom pergola. Even with pergola kits, hiring a contractor is a good choice. For more extensive landscape projects, look for a landscape architect or designer. While the cost is higher, a professional can help you finalize your plans, including what will work best to provide the right blend of sun and shade.

Landscape professionals will also analyze your proposed site and do any necessary prep work; get permits; mark off water, gas and power lines; and coordinate workers. If you’re adding electricity for lighting and fans, you will need a licensed electrician. A professional should also be hired to install gas and plumbing lines. You may also want an expert to help with installing entertainment systems.

Before choosing a professional for your pergola project, be sure to see if he or she has experience with building the type of pergola you want. As with any project, ask for references and to see examples of work.

Expert do-it-yourselfers can order pergola plans or a kit with pre-cut pieces. If you do choose a kit, be sure the materials will stand up to your climate and site conditions. Before you consider this route, take stock of your tools and your expertise level. In addition to building, you’ll also need to take on the legwork of getting permits, preparing the site and checking for gas and plumbing lines. Remember that much of your work will be done on the top of the pergola, and staying safe while working on overhead elements is essential.

Design Considerations for a Pergola

Pergolas can be incorporated into almost any area of the landscape and can serve a variety of purposes. You can also fit them to your personal style and preferred materials. Here are some things to consider when adding a pergola to your yard.

Where Will It Go?

Consider placing a pergola where it best suits your needs — creating a getaway spot or secondary dining or seating area, overlooking an amazing view, capturing summer breezes or providing a bit of shade in an otherwise too-hot section of your yard.

Pergolas can also add a sense of enclosure for a hot tub or spa, while still keeping the space open to the landscape. Situating a pergola at the end or side of a pool creates a convenient spot for lounging away from the direct sun.

You can also add a pergola as part of a larger deck or patio project, as a freestanding structure or attached to one side to your home or another structure. Use a pergola within a larger deck or patio to define the dining area or outdoor kitchen, create a conversation area or add some afternoon shade.

Size

Once you’ve decided how you want to use your pergola, you’ll need to determine how large you want to make it. If you’re planning to use the space for lounging or dining, be sure to allow enough space to make it comfortable for you and your guests.

Style

The look you want is also a key factor in choosing a pergola design. Matching your pergola style to both your home and your landscape will make it feel like a part of the entire yard. You might opt for wood in a naturalistic garden and with a traditional home, or a sleek metal design for a contemporary home. If you really want your pergola to stand out, consider a design that will add some unexpected contrast.

The size of the support posts and overhead pieces will affect the look of your pergola. Slender posts and beams, whether made of metal or wood, lend themselves to a more refined and less intrusive look. More robust posts will add more weight and presence, along with rustic appeal.

Roof Structure

Consider if you’d like your pergola to protect the space beneath it from sun and rain or to simply provide structure for climbing plants or overhead string lights.

The spacing of overhead slats and how they are set, whether horizontally, vertically or at an angle, will determine the amount of sunlight that reaches the interior of a pergola throughout the day. Movable overhead slats or louvers can be adjusted to adapt to the available sunshine or even shut completely in case of wet weather.

Shade cloths and retractable canopies can provide additional overhead protection. For a more open, less confining feel, think about designing a gabled or arched roof, or even eliminating any sort of roof altogether.

Side Walls or Screens

While the sides of a pergola are traditionally left open, adding lattice screens, partial walls or even a full wall on one side of a pergola can provide privacy if needed. Less permanent privacy options include installing curtains or shades that can be pulled shut when needed, or lining the sides with tall plants.

Bonus Features

Depending on your needs and where you live, you may consider adding amenities such as lights, fans and mounted heaters. Other options include permanent seating — perhaps even a swing — and gas and electrical lines for features like a fire pit or spa. Keep in mind that these features can increase the project’s overall cost and installation time.

Material Options

Many people think of wood when it comes to pergolas, but your material options are surprisingly wide. Vinyl and fiberglass are lightweight and long-lasting options, as is aluminum. Steel pergolas are heavier but also a good choice to consider.

Wood

Wood remains a favorite choice for outdoor structures, especially pergolas, thanks to its natural good looks, adaptability and durability — it’s able to handle most weather conditions. Wood pergolas can be either freestanding or attached. Their cost is typically in the midrange for material options.

Naturally rot- and pest-resistant woods, are good choices for a pergola, but these materials can be regional and difficult to find, depending on where you live. If it’s difficult to find them, you can check with local building suppliers for good substitutes for your location. Tropical hardwood options include ipe, teak and mahogany; they’re pest- and rot-resistant, good for coastal locations. Before you buy, check that the wood is certified as sustainable by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These woods are also more expensive and can be harder to work with than some other types.

A final option is pressure-treated woods. These are usually competitively priced and easy to work with, but folks might have concerns about using materials that have been treated with chemicals to make them more long-lasting.

While outdoor-grade wood is a good choice for landscape projects, it may not last as long as high-quality vinyl, fiberglass or metal. Any type of wood requires sealing and usually staining or painting when you first install it. Sealing will keep cedar, redwood and mahogany from fading to gray. While hardwoods can be painted, many people prefer to simply seal them to showcase their natural beauty. Redwood and pressure-treated lumber can also be stained or painted.

You’ll also need to maintain that finish, resealing and staining every year or two and repainting every few years. Even with regular maintenance, you may need to make more extensive repairs after 10 years or so.

If you’re growing plants on your pergola, the moisture from the plants themselves, combined with their weight, can damage wood posts and overheads. Trim back the plants and check for signs of damage yearly.

Vinyl and Fiberglass

High-quality custom-made vinyl pergolas and vinyl pergola kits are readily available and a great choice for a traditional look at a reasonable price. Vinyl pergolas are very long-lasting and relatively maintenance-free, requiring only cleaning every year or so to keep them looking good.

Vinyl pergolas come in limited colors — primarily shades of white — and can’t be painted. Their light weight limits their overall span, and they can sag under a snow load. They are usually freestanding, but some companies do offer the option to attach them to a home.

Fiberglass pergolas, whether you choose a kit or have one custom-made, are less common than their vinyl cousins but share their care requirements. They are also one of the higher-priced choices, but they make up for the initial cost with their long-term low maintenance costs. They can be freestanding or attached, and your choice of styles and colors is far greater than with vinyl options — they can also can be painted. Though still lightweight, they are much sturdier than vinyl, especially for snow loads.

Metal

For a clean, contemporary look that will last for years, consider a pergola made of aluminum or steel that has a finish to prevent rust. Your options include both custom designs and pergola kits. If you choose the latter, make sure it is high quality to get the long lifespan these materials are known for. Pergolas of either material can be freestanding or attached to the home.

Aluminum is a good choice for coastal locations, thanks to its resistance to rust. Its cost is higher than vinyl’s but usually lower than or equal to that of wood. One thing to know about an aluminum pergola is that its light weight means it has to be well-anchored in areas with heavy wind.

Steel is heavier, making it stronger and more impervious to weather. It also can span longer distances without needing supports, which is a bonus for larger installations. It falls on the high end of costs for materials.

Both materials are strong and extremely low-maintenance, and are good choices for a range of climates. Wipe down finished steel or aluminum with a noncorrosive cleaner every year or so. That’s also a good time to check the connections on the pergola to be sure they haven’t loosened.

Other Considerations

Permitting and Codes

Before starting any pergola project, check with your local building department about the necessary permits and code requirements. While smaller structures, usually under 100 square feet, may not need permits, there still may be regulations that will affect the overall height and where you can build. You’ll also need to check on the location of any gas, water or power lines before you level the ground or dig for footings.

If you belong to a homeowners association, check for any guidelines or restrictions regarding location, size, materials or finishes.

Anchoring Your Pergola

Whatever your pergola’s material or style, you’ll need to be sure its posts are securely anchored to the ground. Pergolas over decks and concrete slabs can be anchored with fasteners that are specifically designed for that purpose. For other surfaces, including pavers, the posts will need to be set into the ground. This involves pouring concrete footers or installing anchors on a footing that can literally screw into the ground. If you live in an area that experiences freeze-thaw cycles, the posts will need to be set below the frost line. An experienced landscape contractor will be able to handle any of these installations.

When To Do This Project

As with any outdoor project, the best time to build is during good weather from spring to fall.

How Long Will It Take

Depending on the complexity and the amount of preparation needed, including time for setting concrete footings and staining or finishing the materials, it could take about a week to build a basic pergola. If your design is more complicated or you’re installing amenities such as an outdoor kitchen or fireplace, expect a longer timeline.