A pergola or gazebo makes a great addition to any backyard. They add a sense of style and can increase the property value of your home. If you have the pace, you should consider adding a pergola or gazebo. Not just for entertaining, but to give your house a little something extra, and special. A pergola or gazebo offers the perfect place to rest, relax, and catch your breath. If you have space in your yard, it is a good investment as it will also add value to your home.
Increase Property Value With a Pergola or Gazebo
Location
In most cases, outdoor improvements to a home are more common in the summer months. Having a pergola or gazebo provides a space for entertaining, relaxing, or a place to just get out of the sun. Those that live in warmer climates all year round can also benefit from having a shady place to retreat to. Everyone needs to get fresh air but it is not always fun to sit under a blazing hot sun.
Cost
The cost of building a gazebo or pergola will vary across locations. There are several different types that will be priced differently and the cost also depends on materials as well as demand. Adding a gazebo or pergola to a high-end property will cost more, but you also stand to gain more in terms of long term investments. The installation cost will be less than the overall return on investment or value of the home when sold.
Type
The types of gazebo or pergola will vary in size, design, and materials used. These all affect the final cost. More durable materials will add class, style, and more value so will be more expensive. The most common materials for gazebos and pergolas include:
- Cedar
- Teak
- Fiberglass
- Aluminum
The design or style will also influence the cost. Some common gazebo and pergola designs include:
- Pergola with a retractable canopy
- Pergolas with a pitched or gabled roof
- Bayside panelized octagon gazebo
- Open-topped pergolas (flat or arched)
- Penthouse cottage or garden shed
Wooden pergolas are often the most popular and sought after designs. They are aesthetically pleasing and will match any style of home. The trouble with wood is that it requires more maintenance as time goes by. Wooden structures need to be resealed or repainted often. Proper care and maintenance will ensure a long life span for your pergola or gazebo. It is important to note that wooden options might cost more to purchase, but they also have one of the best resale values. Fiberglass and aluminum materials, on the other hand, are strong, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. They lack the beauty and style of cedar and will not be as aesthetically appealing.
Size
Keep in mind that when it is time to sell your home, the value will be greatly determined by the size of the gazebo or pergola. In many instances, the larger it is, the greater its appeal, and the more value it holds. It is very important to remember that the structure must be properly scaled with the other elements of the backyard. It needs to blend well with the landscape surrounding your home. Outdoor structures like gazebos and pergolas have a unique appeal and this will add character to outdoor spaces offering a lovely, romantic charm, and awesome architectural interest. The more stylish your home is, the more valuable it will be.
Considerations When Putting Up a Gazebo or Pergola
While outdoor structures such as a gazebo or pergola don’t technically add to your home’s total square footage, they provide a great functional outdoor getaway space for you to enjoy. Having a quiet, peaceful retreat in your yard is a great benefit if you are willing to pay for it. Properly fitting the gazebo or pergola with the right furniture, lighting and music systems, as well as any other extras will provide you with countless hours of family time or a quiet little retreat. While you are the only person who can decide if a gazebo or pergola is the right choice for you, it is important that you understand the other implications that might arise. You need to have a well thought out plan and design. To make sure the project runs smoothly, make sure you consider the following:
- Determine your budget
- Choose the style and design of your outdoor structure
- Choose the best material for your area and design
- Decide on the correct measurements
- Decide the purpose of the structure for and choose one that best fits that need
Final thoughts
Regardless of the gazebo or pergola style that you choose, having a beautiful outdoor structure in your backyard will enhance your living space while adding value to your property. It will encourage you and your family to spend more time together and to enjoy the outdoors more often. Should it come time to sell, the gazebo or pergola will add value to your home. It is important to properly maintain and care for the structure so it retains its original unique appeal. Prospective buyers need to be able to envision their get-togethers, summer barbecues, romantic nights under the stars, and relaxation. Adding a gazebo or pergola to your backyard will make your home more appealing, welcoming, and leave you with more usable outdoor space. It is an investment that will more than pay you back, both financially and relaxation.
