The pergola and the arbor are two examples of effective shelters that can beautify your garden. Both are excellent supports for climbing ornamental plants (vine, jasmine, wisteria, etc.). However, they have marked differences. You have the choice between installing a fixed or removable shelter.
In general, the pergola is built using several beams that form a roof. It is supported by columns. It is a real living space reminiscent of the garden of the Priory of Orsan. Adorned with climbing plants, it gives an elegant touch to your home and shades the entire terrace as in ancient times. As a result, it is more used to shade an alley. You will have a flowery and lush tunnel.
Nowadays, new materials strengthen the construction a little more:wrought iron and solid wood. And modern evolution gave birth to the bioclimatic pergola. It is a shelter made up of adjustable aluminum blades, where the amount of sunshine can be adjusted. On the other hand, another model requires attention:the gazebo. Easier to install, it can be dismantled after a particular event. Often rectangular, circular or hexagonal, this model is made of aluminium, braided resin or PVC.
The arbor is an ideal shelter to protect the garden furniture and welcome guests in the shade. Its size depends entirely on the availability of your garden. To shade 4 to 6 people, choose an arbor of about 3×3 m. Know that the wooden one is quite weather resistant while providing a warm atmosphere. The same goes for the wrought iron gazebo, it creates an airy and romantic look.
Many people prefer to adopt the freestanding model, because it is enough to fix the posts using screws nailed to the ground. The foldable one is ideal for the summer season. The assembly and disassembly are quite fast. Moreover, if you want permanent shade, the wall-mounted or back-to-back arbor will do the trick. It extends the house as it rests against the facade of the wall. Very practical, the installation of an arbor is accessible to everyone. The price varies depending on the type, materials, shape and dimensions you choose.
Two options are available to you:install a canvas or put climbing plants. Placing a canvas allows you to create your own style that can match your garden. Favor the color green or beige. To be certain that the cover is weatherproof, prefer the micro-perforated canvas designed with polyester fibers covered with PVC. It regulates heat as well as light.
Acrylic fiber is an ultraviolet resistant material. Its particularity:it does not fade and never retains water in case of heavy rain. As for maintenance, just use a sponge and a little lukewarm water. Avoid at all costs detergent products which can discolor the fabric.
For climbing plants, choose one that is self-controlling but grows quickly. Bignonias are magnificent when in bloom. It is enough to prune them every year to control their growth and to have many flowers. They grow fast and will quickly occupy your arbor. For a romantic effect, opt for wisteria instead. Its color and its flowers in drooping spikes inevitably give charm to any structure. Otherwise why not put a passionflower? Thus, you will have both the beautiful flowering but also beautiful balls of colorful fruit.
