Adding square footage of living space to your home is always a sound investment. Not only does it give you and your family more space to play, but it adds resale value, too -- even if the square footage you add is outdoors. A well-designed and constructed pergola does both. It provides shade and shelter for guests; at the same time, it adds beauty and function to your backyard while boosting its value to potential buyers.
Benefits of Adding a Pergola
We've put together a checklist of reasons why you might want to consider upping your entertainment game with the addition of a backyard pergola:
Pergolas Ground Your Outdoor Space
A beautiful pergola is the perfect structure to section off a portion of your backyard for entertaining. Sit beneath it for hours, reading your favorite books. Or, host a friendly get-together for a dozen friends. A pergola delineates your entertainment space.
Pergolas Provide Shade and Shelter
Entertaining with a pergola means guests stay cooler and somewhat protected from the elements. Add a shade canopy made of canvas, lattice or natural, vining plants, and your pergola can help keep the area beneath it up to 15 degrees cooler on the hottest, summer day.
Pergolas Add Privacy
There are so many ways to perk up your pergola, including adding curtains, lattice, plants and more. All add beauty to your construction, but they all add privacy, too. Sit outside without the world staring back at you when you settle in under your pergola.
Constructing Your Pergola
Now that you've decided a pergola is the perfect home improvement, how do you go about building one? You have several options:
DIY Pergola
You can build your pergola from scratch if you have the know-how and tenacity. This is the most economic option, but make sure it's permitted and built to code if you're trying to up your resale value. You'll want to choose materials that are hardy against the elements, such as pressure-treated wood, cedar, vinyl or aluminum. You'll also need specific tools and supplies, such as a post-hole digger and quick-set concrete.
Pergola Kit
Pergola kits are readily available online and at your local home improvement store. They include everything you need to construct your pergola, including the wood, vinyl, aluminum or fiberglass posts, brackets and hardware. Upon delivery, your pergola is ready to assemble. This option is a little pricier than doing it yourself, but it's cheaper than calling in a pro.
Professional Installation
The average cost of professional pergola construction is between $3,500 and $4,000, according to HomeAdvisor. This cost can change according to where you live, the materials used and the size of your pergola. But this option is also the one that will raise your resale value the most.
When it comes to living space, every square foot counts. This is especially true when it's time to list your home for potential buyers. Consider the addition of a pergola to enhance both the function and beauty of your backyard. Your family and the next one will love you for it.
About the Author
Tina Broyles, DRE 01009212 & NMLS 91630
Headline: Tina Broyles: Your Expert Real Estate Agent for Fremont, San Jose, and the Bay Area | eXp Realty
Bio:
As a dedicated real estate professional and a long-time resident of the California Bay Area, I have been proudly serving the real estate community since 1987. My mission is to provide my clients with unparalleled professionalism, in-depth market knowledge, and a caring approach that has resulted in a business built almost entirely on referrals.
Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor in the Bay Area
I specialize in the vibrant and diverse real estate markets of Fremont, Campbell, San Jose, Saratoga, Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Morgan Hill, Santa Clara, Mountain View, and Milpitas, CA. With over three decades of experience, I have a deep understanding of these communities and can provide you with the insights you need to make informed decisions.
One of the most consistent compliments I receive from clients is about my responsiveness to their needs. Your goals are my top priority, and I am committed to being there for you every step of the way. I am honored to have been voted "Best of Milpitas" every year from 2000 to 2020, a testament to my dedication to my clients and my community.
About My Business: eXp Realty
As part of the innovative eXp Realty team, I bring a diverse set of skills and a commitment to excellence to every transaction. We leverage cutting-edge technology that is "beyond expectation" to provide you with a seamless and efficient real estate experience. My team and I offer the perfect balance of experience and professionalism to help you achieve your real estate dreams in the Bay Area.
Community Involvement
I believe in giving back to the community that has given me so much. I am a happily married mother of two and a proud grandmother to two beautiful granddaughters, Audrina and Chesney. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, exercising, and my weekly Bible study. I am also passionate about serving the homeless community in Milpitas and supporting our local businesses.
I would be honored to get to know you and your family and put my extensive real estate experience to work for you.
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