The First Steps To Building A Pergola Attached To The House

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Custom Outdoor Living, 53-57 Rimfire Dr, Hallam VIC 3803
Phone: 1300 724 118
If you're looking to add value to your property, building a pergola is a good way to go because it's both affordable and will last for many years to come. Following are some helpful tips which will show you how to build a pergola attached to the house and help clear up any questions you may have.

We highly recommend using timber as your material of choice because it firstly helps to keep the costs down, and secondly is very versatile. You can purchase timber that is specially treated for outdoor use and you can take further steps to protect the wood by applying extra layers of varnish. No two pieces of timber are the same, so make sure you select only those that are in outstanding condition or you'll regret it later.

Why Should I Build A Pergola?

I'm guessing you've already made your decision, but it helps to understand that if you're looking to transform a dead space in your backyard into something both functional and aesthetically pleasing, building an attached pergola is the way to go.
This particular structure can really go a long way to open up part of your garden by creating additional space which you can utilise for entertainment purposes or for simply sitting back, relaxing and enjoying some quiet time outdoors.

Building A Pergola - The First Important Steps

Before you even get started on any building work, you should pay particular attention to where you are going to position the structure.

When choosing a location for your pergola, try and make the most your winter sun. Always check with your council or local authorities to make sure you have permission to build. And importantly, work out where all of your utilities are in the area. Water, gas, sewer and other pipes could be in your work area and may cause problems.
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Here are some further important steps to consider before you pick up your tools and spring into action.

How to Build a Pergola – Step One

What You Need To Consider Before You Build

It is very important to check with your local council or shire before building any structure. It is your responsibility to ensure that all relevant approvals have been obtained and that the structure that you are attaching to (likely your home) is suitable to support the additional load imposed by your new pergola. In the absence of approval, a council or shire can reasonably demand that any structure you have built be pulled down. Obviously this is not a desirable outcome so we strongly recommend that you get your approval first!
Most local councils or shires require an application to be lodged detailing the proposed works and whether they meet engineering standards and local guidelines. Generally speaking a fee is required to lodge an application, and an approvals process is undertaken which usually takes a number of weeks (the timing can vary wildly from council to council) Plans and elevations are needed with the application, and if there are any issues your council or shire will usually contact you for clarification or further engineering.
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How Do I Attach A Pergola To The Side Of My Property?

It can sometimes be tricky when it comes to attaching the pergola to the side of your house. A picture is worth a thousand words, or in this case a video, so watch the video below for some helpful advice on how to carry out this part of the process properly.

If you'd like any further advice on how to build a pergola attached to the house, give us a call on 1300 724 118. We have over 20 years of experience building pergolas in Melbourne (more here) and can help with all the complicated building regulations too.