Thinking To Install a Verandah, Patio Or Pergola?
South Australia is a locale with some of the most mesmerising outdoor scenes, especially during spring time. Brightly colored flowers of all types cover the lawn and gardens of our picturesque landscape. Most home owners would look to installing either a verandah, patio or pergola so they can do some outdoor entertaining.
Nothing makes an afternoon tea more enjoyable then sitting in a cool breeze, and chatting with friends and family amidst natural landscaped lawns and gardens.
While many are familiar with the terms Verandah, Patio and Pergola, few actually understand the key differences between each. In this post, we will look at these three types of “roof extensions” – each lending it’s own benefits to not only accentuating the design of your home, but also creating a more enjoyable living space within your compound.
What is a Patio?
A Patio is usually located in the back of a house just after the back door. The flooring of a patio is often done with paving, and it serves as an external “extension” of a house. Some patios have a roof while most do not. Of a spanish origin, Patios were originally classified as a roofless inner courtyard. In times past, it is often a signature of status to have large inner courtyards, which speaks of families with influence.
Patios are excellent for simple entertaining. In Adelaide and South Australia, most patios will be seen with a few couches, a small table and generous amount of space for the kids to mess around in.
If you need an outdoor area for such purposes, something simple and not too costly, installing a Patio may be an excellent idea.
What is a Pergola?
A pergola, few would know, is actually significantly different to a Patio. The Pergola is originally meant to be an external construct that is separate from the house. It is an independent structure with it’s own roof beams and rafters.
Years ago, the term Pergola originated as an Italian word, used to mean an outdoor structure covered with plants. It was intended to convey the experience of nature, with it’s roof beams, rafters and frames totally covered with climbing plants.
Traditional pergolas were designed intricately, and are intended to be monumental and slightly exaggerated. These structures were meant to be larger in size, and accomodate larger parties. You would often find a large dining table with matching outdoor chairs at the center of pergolas.
Pergolas are excellent for entertaining larger groups. They are often located in the back of a house, apart from the main roof. Usually in a backyard or back garden area. Pergolas are perfect if you invest into some beautiful landscaping for your backyard, and install it right in the middle of that setup.
Modern Pergolas have evolved into versions that are more durable and easier to maintain. While tradition pergolas are usually made from wood, which erodes and chips over time, modern pergolas are often made from metal, thatch, polycarbonate or similar materials. These are much more durable and delivers a cleaner, modern look. However, some of the traditional feel is lost with the use of these new materials.
Many home owners still prefer traditional pergolas. After all, retro is the in thing.
What is a Verandah?
A verandah is different from a patio or a pergola in the sense that it is narrower and longer in shape. The word originates out of India and means “a place that leads outdoors”. Hence, the actual intent of a Verandah is to transition between indoor to outdoor.
Very popular in Australia, especially in Queensland, one can spot many homes with verandahs installed. Smaller than a patio and pergola, a verandah normally sports a roof that is attached to where the permanent roofing of a house ends. This extends outwards to cover a small area. Usually sufficient for a small table, a few chairs and possibly a small barbecue pit.
Verandahs are also usually located at the back , but can be found on the sides of houses. Especially for larger houses with lengthier sides, a nicely designed verandah can really improve the overall outlook of a home considerably.
Verandahs are perfect for sitting idly by with family members on a quiet day.
So Should You Install A Patio, Pergola or Verandah?
It all boils down to your own entertaining preferences. Many home owners prefer to install a patio or pergola as they can cater to larger groups. A large patio or pergola could accomodate more than 15 people under it’s roof. Patios and Pergolas are also ideal for dining. You can set a large dining table in the middle and still feature numerous chairs, even an outdoor space heater. A full on barbecue pit or outdoor cooker with attached sink would really complete the setup.
On the other hand, if you just want a small cosy corner for your family or a few friends to regularly chill in, a verandah may be perfect. Although not as extravagant in design and function, Verandahs can be designed very cosily, and deliver a warm family feel to it. A hanging chair or slide in the corner would make for a very idle read during the evenings. If your pet doesn’t get on that before you do.
So which should you install? It’s up to you. If you need professional advice on which and how to go about installing your patio, verandah or pergola, feel free to contact Rite Price Roofing. Our experts will gladly help you out!
