Pergolas have been used in homes for centuries, classically, to add a shaded walkway, to link pavilions, or to allow a living room that allows the breeze and sun to filter through. This incredible addition to a home will not only increase comfort, it can be an attractive asset to the home’s resale value. Any open space around the house can be used as an invitation for a pergola. Over the years, the pergola structures have been adapted to the area so there is a great variety of designs. While traditional pergolas were primarily intended for beauty and comfort, current designs place more emphasis on providing protection against harsh elements of nature such as rain and snow and ultraviolet radiation.
The design of a pergola depends on the geographical location. Depending on the area, degree or direction of the sun, a pergola can be a gazebo, an extension of a building, an open terrace, or a veranda that has vines crossing a lattice roof. One of the most important considerations when designing a pergola is the structure and shape of the roof.
The design of a pergola roof depends on the availability of direct sunlight, as well as the geography and natural features of the region. Although, in earlier times, pergolas were built with brick and stone pillars, modern designs employ weather-resistant woods such as western red cedar or coastal redwood. Pergola roofs can range from a simple, flat, traditional roof, an elaborately curved roof, a sloped roof, a gable roof, or a gazebo-style roof.
Roofing materials
There are a variety of materials that can be used to roof a pergola. The choice of roofing materials depends on the size, shape and style of the structure. The durability and robustness of the construction depends on the materials that are selected for this purpose. Currently the materials used for roofing include metals, plastic, fiberglass, polycarbonate, fabric, etc.
Metal roof
The advantage of a metal roof is that it can be adjusted to the exact size and shape of the structure. Choosing metals like copper, aluminum, or tin also helps make an easy decision. Metals are not only easy to cut and shape, but also provide excellent protection against weather conditions. However, they also have some disadvantages, such as not allowing light to enter the area or allowing the temperature to get too hot within the area.
Plastic and Fiberglass
Another variation of roofing for pergolas includes the use of plastic or fiberglass. The advantage of these options is that they are lightweight and inexpensive. They can also be easily cut to size and allow light to filter based on the color of the ceiling. They also protect the pergola from inclement weather, such as rain and snow. Additionally, UV radiation can be reduced when these two options are used. Although plastic may not be an environmentally friendly option, fiberglass can be made from recycled materials.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonates are thermoplastic polymers that can be easily molded and have high impact resistance along with other advantages such as heat resistance, ease of shaping, flame retardancy, and toughness. They are available for different transparency and heat transfer needs. Polycarbonates are also well known for their protection against ultraviolet radiation. Along with a wonderful color combination to choose from, polycarbonate can be manufactured to withstand very specific and harsh environmental conditions in Australia. The two popular brands that are used are Astrolite and Laserlite.
Cloth
Everyone loves a colorful and pleasant ceiling that can lift our spirits and allow us to enjoy the day. For this reason, fabric pergola covers that are also highly insulating can be an amazing option. Depending on the type of fabric used, these pergolas can prevent heat transmission that could lead to discoloration or damage to the roof. A strong and durable fabric that can generally be used in the making of a boat’s sails can also be used to filter UV rays and other harmful natural elements such as sunlight and heavy rain so that people can enjoy their investment. for a long time.
Comparative study of roofing materials for a pergola
Permanent structures like metal roofs are difficult to change, but can be repainted. Clean fiberglass and plastic materials may change color after a period, but can be easily discarded and new installed. The choice of materials to cover or roof the pergola depends on the buyer’s instincts when it comes to options for durability, permanence and availability. In tropical Australia, zinc galvanized corrugated sheets do not reflect much infrared or ultraviolet rays. White ceilings reflect better. White or soft tones are better colors for a cool ceiling. As the Earth seeks to become greener, the best option, of course, is to enjoy the traditional open-roofed pergolas.
Paint your pergola
Anything that is exposed to the harsh elements of nature will eventually need protection. Paint is one of the best ways to provide this protection. It adds color to the wood and also hides some of the natural flaws and characteristics that can be brought out by obscuring the true beauty of the wood. Paint is also beneficial because it prevents moisture damage and rust. Acrylic paints are the best option for painting pergolas as they provide the best protection.
The durability of the pergola depends on the materials chosen for its construction. As the ceilings are permanently exposed to the elements of nature, the chosen paint can easily fade. Additionally, materials such as fabric can fray or fade, and plastic or fiberglass roofs can warp or change color.
To paint a pergola for long-lasting protection, it is important to follow traditional procedures such as preparing the surface which includes removing old paint, using sandpaper to allow absorption, and applying preservative towards the end of the paint. Surface preparation is very important before painting as it decides how long the effect of the paint will last. Any oil or dirt on the surface of the wood must be completely removed. Using 50-60 grit sandpaper, create a suitable surface for good paint absorption. If the wood is more than two weeks old or has been lying outdoors in the rain, sanding, brushing and cleaning is essential. Applying a water repellent preservative with a fungicide is an excellent idea before painting because it prevents the absorption of water by the wood that can cause decay.
These are the steps to paint a pergola:
- Remove the furniture and any decorations you already have.
- If there are growing and climbing vines, protect them with plastic sheeting and tie them out of the way. Remember to also water them if the paint takes more than a few days.
- Wear a mask, head covering, and protect your eyes with safety glasses. Also wear an apron or old clothing to protect yourself from paint splatters.
- Using sandpaper, remove all paint until the surface is completely prepared.
- Apply a water repellent and fungicide if necessary.
- Using a paint sprayer, spread evenly from the far end to the back. High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) sprayer is more efficient and smoother.
- Use a paint roller to get a smooth finish.
- Give a light coat on the roof of the pergola.
- Fill in the gaps and let the paint dry for up to four hours.
- Apply a second coat of paint to the roof of the pergola.
- Let the paint dry overnight.
Causes of discoloration of pergola roofs
Over time, pergola roofs can discolor due to dirt, mildew, mold, or moisture. Additionally, iron fittings can rust and cause red stains that can react with other pigments or stains. To avoid this, you can use stainless steel nails and keep a constant vigil so that the pergola stays dry. A commercial mold remover or other all-purpose cleaners and they help keep the ceiling spotless. Stains that are caused by the reaction of water deposits on wood can also be removed by washing it with cleaners. Chalk is another form of discoloration caused by the weathering of paint or the disintegration of pigment particles, which appear as a powder. Restorative paint requires cleaning with oxalic acid based strippers, bleaches and solvents to remove stains.
