One of the best ways to create a striking backyard is by adding a pergola.

A pergola is a construction supported by columns on the side, with lattices or beams along the top linking the columns. The plus with a structure like this is that plants can entwine themselves around the framework of the pergola, creating an enchanting focal point in your garden.

But a word of warning. While popular pergola plants such as bougainvillea, Devil’s Ivy, Creeping Fig and Climbing Hydrangea may grow relatively effortlessly, on the flipside, they need to be maintained because they can quickly get out of hand. Most pergola plants look great all year round, but you want to make sure they stay green – and that you can reach them to trim them back.

If you’re avoiding your backyard because of a lack of shade protection, then a pergola is a practical solution. Once the creeping plant life has engulfed your pergola, you’ll find it will provide the perfect shield from the sun’s harshest rays.

As a pergola is not entirely closed off like a regular roof, it is still able to deliver an alfresco feel without succumbing to the elements. If the plants are dense enough, a pergola may even shelter you from the rain – but be sure to seek the safety of your property during a decent storm.

If you live next door to structural eyesores such as a rusty shed, a murky swimming pool, a dying tree or an unkempt garden, a strategically placed pergola can go some way towards restoring a more appealing outlook.

The value of a pergola

One of the best ways to achieve the most from a pergola is to use it as a link to other structures, such as gazebos or verandas, to create an attractive outdoor living area.

It’s also fair to assume that a pergola won’t hurt the value of your home when the time arrives to sell. A pergola can add an extra dimension to your home and set it apart from the competition. It provides additional space for plants to bloom and breathe life into your garden. It also adds an extra layer of protection from the elements and can help screen out unsightly views. All these factors can combine to add significant value to your home and make it a more attractive proposition when the time arrives to sell.

To find out more about the value of adding a pergola to your property, talk to a Raine & Horne agent today.