Pergolas make a wonderful addition to any outdoor area. Not only do they provide much-needed shade and shelter but can also offer privacy. And let’s not forget they look great too. With the right pergola design, you can enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer – fresh air, warm sunshine and uninterrupted views.
But before you start planning your design it’s important to remember that not all materials are suited for outdoor use. You’ll need to ensure that the timber you choose is specifically designed to handle the outdoors – that includes both in the ground and above the ground. After that, it’s all about selecting a timber that suits your home and style.
Let’s take a look at what materials you should consider using and the top 10 pergola designs for Perth Homes.
What is a Pergola?
A pergola is an unenclosed, open-framed structure covered with material or unroofed. Since a pergola doesn’t have solid walls and the roof can be open, a pergola will allow you to enjoy Perth’s beautiful afternoon sea breezes.
A pergola can be freestanding or attached to a dwelling, but if you are planning on building or replacing a pergola, you need to obtain the necessary approval from your local council. The versatility of wood makes the ideal material to build your pergola.
Types of timber for Modern Pergola Designs
The types of timber that you can use for a timber pergola include:
- Vulcan Timber – These finger-jointed and laminated posts and beams are stable, durable and termite resistant.
- Bush poles – These include Jarrah bush poles, recycled hand brushed poles, and new spotted gum poles.
- Magna Merbau – This is a Southeast Asian hardwood timber finger-jointed and laminated for durability.
- Recycled Timber – This is made from re-machining old Class 1 durable hardwood power poles.
- Western Red Cedar – Imported from Canada, this wood is versatile, durable and naturally resistant to moisture, decay and insect damage.
- Green Structural Jarrah and Karri – These are sourced from species local to WA.
- Treated Pine – Pine is treated to improve its durability and natural service life.
Why Glulam Timber has become a Popular Choice
The popularity of glulam is growing rapidly. The timber material is constructed of smaller sections of timber glued together. As a result, glulam beams and posts are stronger than solid timber. Glulam wood has fewer natural defects and is generally manufactured from timber species that are resistant to termites and rot.
Another big advantage of glulam timber is the length of the timber. Glulam is readily available in larger sizes and longer lengths. This means you’ll need fewer timber posts to support your pergola so you can be more creative with your design.
If you would like advice on laminated timber products, get in touch with Austim. They have a range of glulam timber posts and beams available for you to build your new pergola.
10 Beautiful Pergola Design Ideas
We’ve put together 10 design ideas to bring your pergola to life and add functionality, beauty and character to your outdoor area.
- Add lattice panels to the sides of your pergola for more privacy or as a grid for climbing plants, wisteria, creepers or vines.
- Paint or stain your pergola. Basic black always works well, especially against a green lawn or when framed with plants and shrubs.
- Attach shade cloth, retractable canvas or awning for more sun protection.
- Hang light gauzy curtains to one or more sides of your pergola to create a resort poolside vibe.
- Choosing the right furniture will enhance your pergola. Rather than garden furniture, consider sofas, cushions, a table or even a daybed.
- If using solid beams across the top, you could hang a swing or hanging egg chair from those beams.
- Recreate a tropical beach hut with a thatched roof made from straw or other natural materials.
- Add a water feature with pebbles and stones, a garden pond or a bubbling fountain under your pergola.
- For evening ambience, hang vintage lamps from the ceiling beams or wind a string of light bulbs or fairy lights around the supporting posts.
- If you have a roof with more protection, add tiles on the floor, lay an outdoor rug or install decking.
So, now that you’re full of great design ideas for your pergola, the next step is to choose your timber. Austim is Perth’s leading timber supplier and is the preferred choice for builders and tradespeople – we even supply timber to Bunnings.
For more details and prices on timber for your pergola, contact Austim today.
