Patios & Pergolas: How to Plan the Right Installation for Your Space

Are you looking to upgrade your backyard oasis – perhaps by adding a patio or pergola? Whether you prefer to entertain friends or just relax in style, and a few other considerations, will help determine which option makes the most sense for your space. 

Either way, planning the perfect outdoor installation can be a daunting task. There are many similarities, but also some basic differences, when planning these two types of projects. From choosing the right materials to exploring your personal style, there’s a lot to consider. You’ll need to determine the right size, features, placement and any unique touches to include. A landscape service you can trust will help ensure the highest quality and design with your most important needs in mind.

Start by firsting sorting through the material choices, design options, and key considerations that will help you select the perfect solution for your home.

Understanding Your Needs

There are more styles and models for outdoor spaces to choose from than ever before. Still, knowing the fundamental differences will help you select what’s best for you. A patio is generally designed to expand the space that’s already in use outside your home. So, adding or upgrading a patio has the potential to convert a garden or portion of a lawn into another room you can enjoy. In contrast, a pergola is a stand-alone feature separate from the home. Adding one to your landscape will serve to enhance and beautify the garden or other natural surroundings.

Determining Size and Scope of Your Landscape Design

An important step in the design process is to determine the size, shape and dimensions of your project. You’ll need to address questions such as how many panels are preferable and how wide each panel needs to be. Or, for a patio, the length and width, as well as the amount of space there should be between the patio and the house. A larger structure may be more expensive, while certain designs will be necessary to accommodate different types of gatherings and weather conditions. Clarifying just how the structure will be used and how it should look can be hammered out during this phase.

Choosing Materials

Working with an experienced landscape service, materials should be selected with the climate, durability, appearance and other crucial factors in mind. In coastal areas, wood and other types of materials may be more susceptible to rot. On the other hand, in the icy Midwest, brick and stone can be prone to cracking. It’s also important to consider materials that are fire resistant, non-toxic, easy to clean and low-maintenance. 

Concrete 

Concrete is highly durable and low-maintenance, making it a great choice for patios and the foundations of pergolas. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns and can easily be stamped or stained to match your home’s design. 

Brick & Stone

Ideal for fire safety, these types of materials also come in various hues, but they may need to be sealed, maintained and cleaned regularly. 

Wood

Wood is another common material used in the design of patios and pergolas. However, you’ll want to make sure it’s water-resistant and treated to prevent rot. It’s also important to seal and maintain wood structures regularly to preserve their integrity and prevent warping.

Adding Unique, Artistic Features to Your Patio or Pergola

Once you have the basics down, you’ll be ready to consider adding unique qualities to your patio or pergola. Have fun with it! There are plenty of ways to add personality and style to a new outdoor structure and make it truly your own. For example, using non-traditional materials like tin or other metals can bring an artistic quality to a design. Incorporating decorative items like statues, pots or plants, and outdoor, weatherproof furniture can really bring an outdoor space to life.

Partner with a High-Quality, Experienced Landscaping Company in Your Area

Schmechtig Landscapes is prepared to assist you with the patio or pergola of your dreams. We can walk you through each stage, helping you sort through the options based on decades of experience helping people design and implement similar types of outdoor structures. Our team ensures that each client gets a unique outdoor solution that best compliments and reflects their home, lifestyle and preferences.

Visit Schmechtig Landscapes online to find out more about our many offerings. We promise to deliver quality service, exceptional landscaping and design, and the utmost professionalism. Call us today to get started on the design of your dreams!