DIY Builds
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What do you call a roof over a patio?

The word pergola has come to be used interchangeably with patio cover. Patio cover. An attached structure that provides shade and/or rain coverage for a patio or deck. A patio cover may have an open or solid roof. The term patio cover is often used interchangeably with pergola.

What is the average income on Etsy?
What is the average income on Etsy?

How Much Does The Average Etsy Seller Make? The average successful seller on Etsy earns between $43,000 and $46,000 per year which is a fantastic...

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Is it cheaper to build a garage or buy a kit?
Is it cheaper to build a garage or buy a kit?

Garage kits are often less expensive than prebuilt garages. There are many options available, and it's easy to find the garage that best suits your...

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Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

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Garden Structures Learn the difference between a pergola, patio cover, gazebo, arbor and trellis There is much confusion over what to call garden structures. Is it an arbor, trellis, pergola, patio cover or gazebo? People often use these terms interchangeably and without knowing what each really means. Below you will find definitions for each of these structure types. Pergola A freestanding structure with an open roof that is supported by columns or posts. A pergola may be used to cover a walkway or to provide filtered shade for an outdoor living space. The word pergola has come to be used interchangeably with patio cover. Patio cover An attached structure that provides shade and/or rain coverage for a patio or deck. A patio cover may have an open or solid roof. The term patio cover is often used interchangeably with pergola. Gazebo A freestanding, octagonal structure with a solid, pitched roof and open sides that provides full shade without obstructing views. It is common for gazebos to be screened in to provide a bug-free space for relaxing. Gazebos can be confused with pergolas. Ramada A freestanding structure similar to a pergola, but with a closed roof. A ramada provides complete shade as well as protection from rain. The closed roof traps heat, which can be beneficial in colder weather. Ramadas are often placed over outdoor kitchens or near an outdoor fireplace. Some landscape professionals use the term pavilion. Pool House A freestanding enclosed structure which can include a kitchen, game room or even a spare bedroom for guests. Often used in areas with inclement or cold weather. Also a great place for storing pool supplies and equipment. Learn more about pool house design. Arbor A small framework that supports climbing plants and serves as a passageway. Arbors are often arched and placed over a path or gate. Arbors are sometimes called pergolas or trellises. Trellis A flat section of lattice work used to support vines. Often used to add interest to a blank wall, add height to fences, or to add privacy to an outdoor structure. Trellises are commonly confused with arbors. Greenhouse Greenhouses are structures that create their own microclimate inside their walls. They are good for those who want to grow exotic plants or have homegrown food year round. Learn about the four criteria of greenhouse planning. Since many of these terms are used interchangeably it is important to be able to explain what you want to a designer or contractor. Make sure you express whether you are looking for a freestanding or attached structure and whether you want it to have an open or solid roof. If you communicate these factors clearly you will end up with the right type of structure despite what you or your designer may call it. See how your outdoor structures might fit into your overall landscape design with a full yard design mockup from the experts at Tilly Design, an affordable online landscape design service.

Can you use pallets for shed base?
Can you use pallets for shed base?

Wooden pallets can be a great choice as a shed foundation because they have a high load capacity. Each pallet can withstand an average of 3,000...

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Can I put a shed anywhere in my garden?
Can I put a shed anywhere in my garden?

You must apply for householder planning permission to erect a garden building, greenhouse or shed if: the total area of ground covered will be...

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What is the difference between a porch and a portico?

The biggest difference between a porch and a portico is that a porch is more of an additional enclosed living space at the front of your house, while a portico is mainly a roofed structure held up by columns at the entrance of your property.

Functional

A porch usually runs the length of your home’s façade, and it’s an extension of the living space in your home. Porches are typically a space for entertaining or relaxing, and they usually have a roof. They’ve been around for centuries, and the main function of your porch has changed over time. However, they’re still popular for sitting and enjoying a cool breeze. They can be a decorative feature for your home that can boost your home’s curb appeal or overall design aesthetic. Porch flooring and construction vary from home to home, and you can have very formal porches or casual ones. One thing every porch has in common is how functional the space is. On the other hand, a portico is a strictly functional part of your home. The main thing a portico does is provide shelter for yourself and your doorway from the weather as you try to go in and out of your home. You can use porticos to add a dramatic flair to your home’s look. You see porticos on large buildings or mansion-style homes, but smaller residential buildings have also adopted them. It has a roof, but the roof usually has a few columns to support it. There’s not enough area to sit, and it only takes up enough space to shield your doorway from the elements.

What's the most expensive wood?
What's the most expensive wood?

Topping the list of most expensive woods in the world is Bocote, a flowering plant from the borage family that is mostly found in Mexico, Central...

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What is the best size for a she shed?
What is the best size for a she shed?

Pro Tip: A popular size for a she shed is 10 x 12 feet (120 square feet). That's likely because it offers ample space and many counties don't...

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Do you need to ventilate a shed?
Do you need to ventilate a shed?

Ventilating your shed provides proper airflow and is important in your shed to prevent mildew and fume buildup from chemicals that you may store in...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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Is it worth it to insulate a shed?
Is it worth it to insulate a shed?

Benefits of Insulating Your Shed Extreme temperatures can damage sensitive items, like paints, electronics, pottery, and more. Insulating your shed...

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