Overhead Shade Structure

Arbors and pergolas are overhead shade structures that support plants.

Many different overhead structures provide shade and shelter from direct sun, such as arbors, pergolas, gazebos and covered decks. Wood, metal, concrete, plastic, landscape canvas and a variety of recycled and salvaged materials can go into shade structure construction. Creative landscapers, contractors and homeowners have a large selection of ready-to-assemble products to choose from, if they don't want to design and build the structure themselves, including standing or hanging patio umbrellas.

Arbors

Arbors are versatile arched passageways constructed from trellises or trellis-like materials. They're used as entryways to garden rooms or other areas, and are usually covered with growing plants such as grape vines or flowering vines. Arbors are as small as an arch over a garden gate, or as large as 5 feet wide by 6 feet tall. They can be simple entryways or long covered tunnels . Build an arbor if you want a structure to support a climbing plant, an unusual entryway in your yard or a large shade structure. Make arbors from simple wire mesh and flexible tubing, or wood posts and wooden latticework, or use plastic landscape materials.

Pergolas

Pergolas are often confused with arbors but are distinct structures. They're simple structures made from posts supporting an open-work roof to provide shade and support for climbing plants. Pergolas are used to provide cover for porches, decks, outdoor kitchens, patios and walkways. Materials to make pergolas include 4-foot by 4-foot posts, 2-foot by 4-foot timbers, round posts and poles, or scroll-cut boards. Pergolas are usually tall structures, depending on the size of the landscape and the nearby buildings.

Gazebos

Gazebos are outdoor shade structures separate from surrounding buildings. Typical gazebos are small, 8-sided structures built on platforms. They feature solid roofs, optional screened windows, and either open doorway spaces or closing doors. Gazebos can be located in gardens, parks, public areas and scenic spots. They're used for relaxation, to enclose saunas or hot tubs, or for dining and entertaining outside with protection from the sun and summer insects.

Covered Decks

Covered decks are outdoor spaces with constructed floors and permanent or movable coverings. Cover decks with pergolas, deck umbrellas, hanging or draped landscape canvas to enjoy the outdoors out of direct sun. Screen-in a deck and cover it with a light roof structure to enjoy time on the deck free from insects and sun.

References

• "Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Gazebos & Arbors: Ideas, Techniques and Complete Plans for 15 Great Landscape Projects"; Phil Schmidt; 2007
• "The Black & Decker Complete Outdoor Builder: From Arbors to Walkways: 150 DIY Projects"; Editors of Creative Publishing; 2006
• "Backyard Idea Book: Outdoor Kitchens, Fireplaces, Sheds & Storage Play Spaces Pools & Spas"; Lee Ann White; 2004