Stress can be a blight on a person's wellbeing. It may not seem that way at first because you can't see stress, but living under it for prolonged periods can have devastating effects on the body and mind. Sadly, not many people realize it, and the ones that do still struggle to get out of its clutches and understandably so. Letting go of stress is not easy; in fact, it's probably one of the most challenging things a person has to learn to do. But even after trying their very best, many people never stop worrying and lose their health in the process. For such stress-prone individuals, having a soothing corner at their disposal can make a world of difference. And that's where a pergola can be a huge help.

Pergolas are not just outdoor structures that are only suitable for dinners and parties. They can be equally useful for some 'alone/me time' for anyone. If you set them right and decorate them well, you can have a relaxing yoga retreat at home 24/7. And that doesn't mean you you'd have to give up outdoor get-togethers; you can still have those but during the day style a pergola for a much-needed yoga session.

A Rustic Spa

If you like to be around nature or feel that being close to earthy elements can ease your anxiety better, you should go for a rustic setup. Get a wooden pergola installed in your backyard. Adorn it with twig climbers and perennials to keep nature close to yourself during yoga. For added effect, put up a water basin/fountain in the middle of the deck. Stretching near the sound of running water will alleviate your anxiety significantly. Even if you choose not to do that, it's completely fine. But then furnish the space in such a way that you can add other soothing elements such as scented candles and incenses. Place a rustic table under the pergola to keep your yoga implements. You can also choose to put comfortable loungers to induce a warm and comforting vibe.

A Chic Chamber

Some people feel at peace in clean and clear spaces; if you're one of those, then you need to install a modern pergola to create a sleek looking spa for your daily yoga sessions.

You can choose whichever material you want for the pergola and get it painted in the most relaxing colors, such as white. Install a marbled deck underneath it and furnish the space with contemporary furniture pieces, such as chaise lounges or round-arm loveseats. Don't forget to put a coffee table to place your candles and flowers (if you want) to create a peaceful ambiance.

Modern pergolas generally work well with sheer curtains, so you might want to consider putting up those as well in your chic yoga chamber.

 
Enjoy the benefits of having a pergola that go beyond the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Create a corner for yourself to recharge and recuperate from the daily burdens of life.

Bonus advice: Style your backyard anyway you want so that the retreat that comes out of it works for you.

There are a number of reasons to consider a pergola. A pergola is relaxed, comfortable, and can make your entire living area or outside living space look more appealing.
You might particularly want to consider a pergola if you are thinking of revamping your space a bit and perhaps modernizing it.
Here are a few tips that can help you in choosing a pergola for your backyard.

Choose Your Material Wisely

Once you have made up your mind about going for a pergola, you will first and foremost have to decide on the right material for your pergola.
Most likely, any pergola you wish to go for will be placed in the outdoors. As such, you want a material that is durable and resistant to intense weather conditions.
The good news is that if you opt for a pergola expert, they will offer you a range of different materials from which you can choose your perfect pergola.
The most commonly available materials include steel, vinyl, aluminum, and wood.
Typically, people will opt for either wood or vinyl.
Both of these options work pretty well and are available in a range of different colors.

Think About The Right Size

Naturally, the ‘right’ size pergola depends on the space that is available in your home or backyard.
When you are deciding the size of your pergola, keep in mind that the pergola you decide to go for should be in harmony with our current backyard or living space.
You can’t have an obnoxiously large pergola if your space is tiny. Make sure to take care of these things when choosing the perfect pergola for you.
Also, finally bear in mind that a pergola always works best in areas with flat and even ground.  Make sure, therefore, that your pergola is positioned in an area with sufficient extra space surrounding it.
We at SoCal Pergola Company are your local pergola and patio cover experts! We are the most reliable source of everything pergolas in the entire Southern California district!
Our pergolas are bound to impress your guests and keep them coming to your home to see our absolutely beautiful designs!
Call us at 909-303-6788 or visit our website for more information. Let us help us add beauty and elegance to your home starting today!

The sunshiny season of summer is upon us, and so is the time to stay outdoors and take in the fresh, cool air. Pergolas add to the lovely atmosphere of the sunny season – a part of the reason why homeowners like having them in their garden.
If you have a pergola installed in your outdoor space and are looking for ways to add to its beauty, keep reading to find out ways to decorate your pergola and enhance its beauty.   

1.    Hang Edison Bulbs

Keep your pergola lit at all times with Edison bulbs. Hang strings of Edison bulbs on the ceiling of your pergola. Or if your pergola is void of a roof, you can place the lights on the walls or the poles of the pergola. This will give a beautiful effect in the evening or at night. The lights will illuminate your outdoor space beautifully and will be attractive to onlookers.

Note that Edison bulbs are cheap and easy to get from any nearby store. You won’t have any trouble finding them and decorating them in your pergola.

2.    Potted Plants

If not Edison bulbs, you can decorate your pergola with small potted flowering plants. This will add greenery and lovely scents in your outdoor space. Some of the best pergola plants you can get are as follows:

• Rose
• Jasmine
• Honeysuckle
• Trumpet vine
• Grape vine
• Passion flower
• Bignonia
• Morning glory

3.    Suspended Chandelier

This is a great option when you want your pergola to look classy and dressy. You can also have a long table or comfy sofas under your pergola where your friends and family can hang out.

You can find several types of suspended chandeliers on the market today. They are available in different styles, such as a globe-shaped, rectangular chandelier, etc. The most popular one includes a candle chandelier for unforgettable beauty and luminosity.

4.    Add Curtains

Opt for curtains when you want to have a pergola-covered deck. Besides privacy, curtains add a dramatic effect. The best material to get your outdoor curtain in is Olefin – also known as polypropylene. You can also create your own pergola curtain using cotton fabric. Ideally, look for a fabric in a dark shade to avoid getting it dirty quickly.

5.    Bonsai Shelves

Another wonderful way to decorate your pergola is by having a bonsai display. Depending on the size of your pergola, you can have a bonsai shelf accordingly.

For a spacious pergola, get a large bonsai shelf to suit the area. This is a lovely way to fill your pergola with natural greenery.

These decoration ideas are easy (and affordable) to implement in your pergola. Use any of them that suit your liking and turn your pergola into a ravishing space.   

If you're looking for creative ways to bring your outdoor space in good use, building a pergola is probably the best option. A pergola not only adds functionality to your outdoor space but also improves the aesthetics and value of your property. Building a pergola isn't the same as making any home addition; rather, it’s a truly valuable one.
If you're convinced that pergolas are really worth the consideration, we suggest that you go through the list of the things that you must know before you can proceed with the idea of building a pergola in your yard.

1.     Enquire About the Frost Depth

You need to check the frost depth with the local authorities before you can build a pergola in your yard. Frost depth is defined as the depth of the ground that freezes during the winter season. The poles of your pergola should always be deeper than the frost depth. Not placing the beams below the frost depth will result in the ground freezing and thawing thrusting the beams up. The beams will eventually be pushed out of their holes, and the entire pergola structure will be ruined. It is one of the first things you should know before building a pergola.

2.     Check the Permits That You'll Need

Pergolas aren't technical structures, so the chances are that you might not need to get any permits from your local authorities. However, there is no harm in checking with the authorities first. You might need to get permits if you're planning to supply your pergola with electricity for lights, fans, or any other electrical accessories. Not complying with permits can land you in serious trouble. So, it is best if you could check with the authorities of your area to see if you'll need any permits. In case you do, secure them before building a pergola.

3.     Contact the Local Utilities

You might end up damaging the underground utility lines like water and gas lines while digging into the ground to build the pergola. If you accidentally damage these lines, you'll have to incur massive repair costs. You might even end up in trouble with the local authorities. Therefore, when you're planning to build a pergola in your yard, you must first contact your local utilities. They'll mark the area where you shouldn't be digging. This way, you won't end up damaging any underground utility lines.

4.     See What Material Options You Have

You should do your research and see what material options you have for your pergola. Pergolas can be built using redwood, cedarwood, pressurized pine, and many other wood types. Cedarwood is the least expensive but also the least attractive. You wouldn't want to end up with a pergola that doesn't look attractive, especially when improving your property's aesthetics was the main idea. So, do your homework thoroughly before building a pergola to save yourself from any future regrets.

Summary

Building a pergola in your yard can add a tremendous amount of value and appeal to your property. Taking the right factors into consideration beforehand can help you achieve the desired results. Always make sure that you hire professional pergola experts to do the job instead of trying DIY installation.

More and more homeowners have come to realize that their yards are a precious space that they can use for so much more than just gardening. For the same reason, pergolas are becoming increasingly popular. Some people are build pergolas in their yards to host parties and BBQ nights, while some simply build them as a spot where they can relax. Have you ever considered building a pergola for the purpose of dining outdoors?
An outdoor dining area not just looks beautiful, but outdoor dining comes with plenty of surprising benefits. Continue reading this blog post to know why is building an outdoor dining area is highly recommended.

1.     Reduces Stress

Having dinner outdoors is a great stress buster. Nature is said to be an excellent stress reliever. Spending more time outdoors lowers blood pressure and heart rate, eases the tension in the muscles, and decreases the amount of stress hormones in the body, thereby bringing about positive feelings and emotions. So, if you feel you’re losing the charm of life, build an outdoor dining area and see the wonders it can do.

2.     Boosts Mood

Having food outdoors is the same as having food while you’re on a picnic. Dining outdoors naturally boosts mood. No matter how grim you’re feeling, having a meal outdoors amidst colorful flowers and a fresh breeze will lift your mood instantly. It is yet another reason why you should consider building an outdoor dining area.

3.     Improved Concentration

According to some studies, spending time outdoors can improve the level of concentration. It can also improve your attention and memory. Taking your lunch outdoor can help you feel more productive and attentive. Building a pergola where you can sit back and relax with your meal is definitely worth it!

4.     Lower Risk Of Developing Chronic Diseases

Excessive stress can lead to high blood pressure, cholesterol, stroke, and other heart diseases. As mentioned earlier, spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress levels, which eventually reduces the risk of contracting chronic diseases. Simply having your meals outdoors will make you feel a lot relaxed and allow you to enjoy your meal more!

5.     Quality Family Time

An outdoor dining area gives you a great opportunity to enjoy quality time with your family. You can have your food, play games, and have all the fun you want without worrying about a thing!

6.     Increased Value Of Your Home

A beautiful pergola custom-made for outdoor dining is sure to add value to your property. Prospective buyers will be more willing to purchase your house at a higher price. Not only does building a pergola enhances the appearance of your property, but it also brings usable outdoor space in great use!

Summary

Building an outdoor dining area is a great way to boost the aesthetics of your property and bring your yard space into commendable use. Apart from these, eating outdoors itself has numerous benefits. It helps relieve stress, boost mood, improve concentration, and enable you to spend quality time with your family. If you’re convinced with the benefits, hire a professional to build a pergola in your yard today! 

After deciding that they want to build a pergola in their backyard, many homeowners often find themselves on a fence in terms of what material would be best for the pergola. There are so many options to choose from, which further adds to their indecisiveness and confusion.
When building a creative pergola in your backyard with lanterns, curtains and fairy lights, you want to make sure that you choose the right material for it. This will help ensure quality, durability and longevity.
Another important factor is that the material you choose for your pergola should complement the overall theme and look of your house and backyard.
If you are also looking to build one in your backyard, take a look at some of the best materials for a pergola that look absolutely stunning and have great aesthetic value.

Alumawood

As the name suggests, this material is mainly aluminum, which has been manufactured in a way that it ends up resembling cedarwood.

The best feature of alumawood is that it offers a very unique and real wooden texture with a really beautiful, stand-out finish. This material is also super easy to maintain, doesn’t require any painting, is highly resistant to cracks and warping and lastly, it has a spectacular visual appeal.

Alumawood pergolas are also known to be the most long-lasting and diverse among all other materials and offer a highly effective solution for upgrading your outdoor living space.

Wood

Anything made of pure wood looks absolutely stunning, be it a wooden chair, dining table or simply a storage box. Wooden pergolas look even more appealing, especially when they stand in your backyard, perfectly complementing the surrounding greenery and the raw landscape.
When choosing materials for a pergola, many people prefer something raw and natural. If you are in the same boat, wooden pergolas are perfect for you.

Two of the most popular types of wood used for backyard pergolas include yellow pine and red cedar. Yellow pine wood is known for its timeless, classic look, ability to withstand severe weather and an increased resistance towards insects and rotting. Red cedar, on the other hand, is popular for its unique rustic look, absorbing qualities and an appealing kind of a wooden smell.

Vinyl

If you don’t particularly feel tempted towards wood or alumawood, vinyl pergolas are another excellent option for you. They are also great for you if you are on a budget.

Some key benefits of vinyl material are that it is quite less expensive than the other two, extremely lightweight, has a very sharp visual appeal, has many color options and requires very little maintenance.

The best part about vinyl pergolas is that you get to choose from a variety of styles, designs and colors in order to match the overall look of your backyard.

Summary

If you really want your backyard pergola to stand out and offer a great aesthetical value, make sure to choose the right kind of material for it. It is best to seek assistance from a talented pergola company that will not only guide you on the best materials for a pergola but will also build one for you in your backyard. 

Getting a pergola means expanding your living space, a perfect spot to host outdoor parties and a family BBQ, or simply a relaxing spot where you can sit and enjoy nature. A pergola comes with many benefits, so much so that you won’t be able to keep yourself from getting one built in your yard. Other than the immediate benefits, a pergola can even increase the value of your property in the long run. Therefore, you should make sure that you are getting the best pergola for your property!
If you haven’t had any experience with pergolas, you may want some guidance that will help you choose the best pergola. If so, you have come to the right place. We have listed down some tips below that will help you make the right choice!

1.     Purpose

Before you leap into getting a pergola, make sure you know what you are getting it for. A pergola that doesn’t meet your needs and requirements is simply a waste of your hard-earned money. Consider the purpose; whether you want to expand your living space or you want a spot for parties. Once you have this part sorted, choose a pergola that is aligned with your purpose! The best pergola for your yard is, without a doubt, one that is custom-made to suit your needs.

2.     Style

Although square or rectangular pergolas are the most common, they can also be built in other shapes such as hexagonal and circular. Usually, square or rectangle pergolas suit most outdoor spaces; it is important that you take the available space into account before settling on the style. A pergola that fits well in your yard and doesn’t make your yard look too congested is surely the best pergola for you.

3.     Level of Coverage

The level of coverage you want your pergola to offer completely depends on your preferences. If you want to stay completely protected while under the pergola, a solid aluminum roof is one of the best options for you, but if you’re looking for a closer connection with nature, you can get a paneled roof over which you can grow vines. As we have already mentioned earlier, the best pergola is one that fulfills your requirements and meets your preferences.

4.     Material

The right choice of material is crucial when it comes to building the best pergola. While the most commonly used material for pergolas is wood, a lot of people also use steel. Wooden pergolas add tremendous visual appeal to your property, whereas steel pergolas, especially those made from chemically-treated steel (resistant to oxidation and rusting), are more durable and easier to install.

5.     Lighting

If you really want the best pergola, install suitable lights in it. This will enable you to enjoy this outdoor space even when the sun is down. The right lighting will also create a warm and welcoming ambiance, making your pergola one of your most favorite spots of your home!

Summary

If you want the best pergola, you should make sure it meets the purpose, is durable, and fits well with the environment and overall appearance of your property. Hiring the best pergola company is the key to get a pergola that is custom-made to perfection.

The trend of rooftop and outdoor restaurants has seen a massive spike in the recent years. Fancy and welcoming outdoor living spaces are no more restricted to residential settings but they have made their way into commercial settings as well. With so much competition in the field today, businesses strive to make customer experience as great as they possibly can.
Having said that, installation of patio covers is the most straight-forward way of bringing an outdoor space into excellent use. For many years, patio covers have been helping homeowners create warm outdoor spaces but today, businesses have started installing patio covers to their outdoor spaces as it comes with numerous benefits which we have listed down below:

1. Increased Revenue and Larger Customer Base

According to research, installing patio covers to an outdoor space can boost revenue by as much as 65%. With the installation of commercial patio cover, a business is basically expanding the available space it has to accommodate its customers. With a larger space, a business is able to accommodate more customers and with that comes a massive boost in the revenues!  This is one of the biggest benefits of commercial patio covers.

2. Weather Protection

Having an open outdoor space sounds nice till you talk about scorching sunlight and heavy rainfall. Nobody would like to sit outdoors in such weather. However, installation of commercial patio covers will keep your customers protected, regardless of the weather conditioners. More so, your customers will even get an opportunity to enjoy the weather without actually being under the sky!

3. Branding and Visibility

Next up in the benefits of commercial patio covers is the opportunity for a business to brand itself and increase the visibility. A patio cover is an ideal option for a business to brand itself. Installation of a fancy commercial patio cover will create a wave of excitement among the customers who will share their experience further, hence, increasing your brand’s reach.

4. Ambiance

An outdoor sitting space is always more pleasant than an enclosed one. Having an option to sit outdoors and enjoy nature is all more appealing. Offering the customers an outdoor sitting area that,  despite of being outdoors, keeps the customers protected from natural elements and has a warm ambiance is enough to deliver a customer experience that they are going to remember for a very long time.

5. Social Space

While indoor space scan be cozy, they are not the ideal social spaces. Customers can’t really fully enjoy themselves with unrestricted laughter neither can they take a break and simply observe pedestrians moving about. A commercial patio cover provides businesses an opportunity to create a social space where not only the customers will enjoy to the fullest but will also attract more customers to join the social scene!

Summary

Commercial patio covers come with numerous benefits for businesses including expansion of sitting space, a great opportunity to brand itself, create a social space, and offer a customer experience worth remembering. 

Pergolas are outdoor structures that stand free and may or may not have any walls. They are excellent landscape enhancement that creates a relaxing space within your property where you can share a laugh with your family, have a fun gathering with your friends, or simply enjoy the weather.
If you’re looking for a way to make your property more appealing and modern, you should consider getting a pergola. There are numerous advantages of adding a pergola in an outdoor space. Some of them have been listed below:

1. Adds a Definite Space

Getting a pergola in your backyard or garden adds a definite space in your property. The possibilities with a pergola are endless. You can have an intimate outdoor dining area or an entertainment lounge. If there is no patio or deck in your property, a pergola is the perfect way of utilizing the outdoor area, which, otherwise, lays unused.

2. More Privacy

One of the biggest advantages of a pergola is added privacy. If you don’t like the idea of sitting with your family in an open garden or an uncovered space, a pergola is ideal for you. Although pergolas are usually open structures, you can always improvise and customize a pergola with drapes, screens, or latticework to meet your privacy needs.

3. Additional Gardening Space

If you love plants and gardening, a pergola is one of the best gifts you can treat yourself with. A pergola has pillars and a roof, which is usually made of wood. You can beautify the pergola and let the gardener in you get better of you. You can hang flower pots from the boards or fill the pergola posts with climbing plants.

4. Protection from Environmental Elements

A pergola provides protection from natural elements like sunlight and rain. One of the most intriguing advantages of a pergola is that you can enjoy the rain or cool breeze on a summer afternoon. A pergola gives you an ideal outdoor relaxing space where you can enjoy yourself whenever you want, regardless of what the weather is like.

5. Increased Visual Appeal

A beautiful pergola increases the visual appeal of your property. Your house will look prettier and more attractive. A pergola will leave a great first impression on anyone who is visiting you.

6. Increased Property Value

One of the most important advantages of a pergola is that by increasing the visual appeal of your property, a pergola also improves the value of your property in the market. People will be more willing to invest in your property when there is a well-defined and attractive outdoor space! If you are planning to put your house up for sale in the near future, consider getting a pergola. It will surely give you incredible returns!

Summary

​There are many advantages of a pergola, which will make you want to get one in your own backyard. Some of them include an intimate outdoor space, better privacy, increased aesthetic appeal, and, most importantly, the increased value of the property in the market. 

It is common knowledge that upgrades are necessary to not only enhance the look of your house but also increase its value. Their recreational benefits are also an added bonus. However, not all upgrades are equal or provide a good return on investment. In fact, some upgrades can make your house less attractive to potential buyers (believe it or not, it’s true).
When we talk about home upgrades and renovations, most people only consider their indoor space and overlook the outdoor area. But, real estate experts recommend that some outdoor additions can add significant value to your house. For your convenience, we are listing the top four outdoor renovation ideas here:

1.   Add a Deck

A great way to increase your living space as well as the value of your house is to build a deck in your backyard. A tastefully-decorated deck is incredibly inviting and can easily be altered to suit your needs and requirements. For example, if you live in an area where you get rain almost throughout the year, you can add a roof to the deck to make sure the rainy weather doesn’t stop you from enjoying the outdoor life.

2.   Build or Install a Pergola

Whether it is attached to the house or built as a standalone structure in the backyard, there is something so appealing about a pergola that it instantly captivates one’s attention. It will be like a statement piece that can significantly increase the curb appeal of your house.
Not to mention, a pergola will also expand your living space and serve as the perfect spot for small parties or simply lounging around with your family or friends.
A pergola can also be decorated in numerous ways to create a whimsical spot in your house where you can unwind after long and tiring days.

3.   Create an Outdoor Kitchen

Do you love hosting barbecue parties? If yes, then you should consider adding an outdoor kitchen, even if it is a small one, to your house. It will not only make things a lot easier, but also boost the value of your house in the long run. You can create the kitchen close to the deck or pergola, so you won’t miss out on interesting conversations just because you had to cook.
For added benefits, you can also consider adding a minibar to it.

4.   Set up a Water Feature

There is nothing more relaxing than listening to the sound of running water. Therefore, if you want to convert your backyard into an oasis where you can unwind and relax, a water feature is a must have. Depending on your preference, the space you have, and your budget, you can opt for a basic water fountain or a super fancy small pond or even a water wall.
No matter what you choose, water features look great throughout the year and can really jazz up your backyard, creating a luxurious feel. Add accent lighting around your water feature(s) to further enhance the magic.
No matter which outdoor structure you choose to build in your backyard, rest assured all these outdoor structures are available in so many styles and varieties that you will surely find one that fits your house, needs, taste, and budget. Lastly, always consult an experienced professional for all outdoor renovation projects to avoid any inconveniences and get quality services.
In case you are looking for a pergola company in Ontario, Canada, get in touch with us to receive the best-quality services.

Summary


​It is common knowledge that upgrades are necessary to not only enhance the look of your house but also increase its value; their recreational benefits are added bonus. However, not all upgrades are equal or provide a good return on investment.
The article highlights some outdoor upgrades, which according to real estate experts, can add significant value to your house.