Pergola perfect fall retreat

Love your pergola, but sad that winter is on its way? You don’t have to abandon the outdoors when cooler weather sets in. Just make a few adjustments and your pergola will be perfectly ready for fall and even winter! Pergolas are one of our favorite things to build at Creative Concepts and Design. Whether you choose a heavy timber or light timber pergola, there’s sure to be a style that fits your taste and budget. Homeowners are falling in love with pergolas because they are an affordable way to extend your living space almost year round. In fact, they’re one of the top 5 features to include in your deck design. See how to make your pergola perfect for almost every season.

Fire Pit/Patio Heater

A source of heat is your biggest game changer for fall fun in your pergola. Fire pits are perfect and can be wood or propane powered. Another option is a vertical patio heater. Both are readily available and fairly affordable depending on the style you choose. Fire it up and extend the outdoor season through the winter months!

Add a Roof

All you really need is some heavy fabric to create a barrier that will keep the heat from floating away. If your pergola is already equipped with a sunshade of some sort, that may be all you need. If not, a simple roof made of heavy canvas will keep most of the heat from a fire pit or patio heater close and comfy. Sure, you can get fancy and add a retractable roof, but all you need is a barrier to keep the heat inside.

Temporary Walls

You can add “walls” in a variety of ways. If you want, you can add actual solid walls. Many of our pergola designs feature a solid privacy wall or two, but a much more affordable option is some heavy canvas or similar material that will create a windbreak. You’ll be amazed at what a difference simply blocking the chilly breeze will make. Combine these “walls” with a fire pit or patio heater and your pergola will be cozy and snug. (This is something to consider when choosing sun shades during the summer. If they are a heavy enough fabric, they can have a dual purpose and create year-round comfort.)

Blanket Box

Get ready to snuggle with fuzzy blankets, thick throws, or even old quilts that will chase the chills away. Consider keeping them nearby and handy in a large, weather-proof blanket box. That way, they are always there when you need them. A snuggly blanket and a cozy cup of hot chocolate will help you enjoy all of winter’s wonders.

Lights

The sun goes down early in the winter, so if you don’t already have some party lights, now’s the time to add them. A string of Edison bulbs, a few lanterns, or even rope lights will also add to the coziness. Consider creating a holiday atmosphere with festive lights around Christmastime. Snowy trees and twinkling lights create a magical outdoor atmosphere.

The outdoor fun doesn’t have to end when the weather turns cool. Just a few affordable updates and your pergola will be the favorite place to gather all winter long. Add some potted evergreens and a few bird or squirrel feeders for free entertainment. A bird bath with a heater will keep our feathered friends happy even when temps dip below freezing. Whatever you do, get out there and enjoy the fresh air and clear skies.

Pergolas are a great way to expand your living space at a fraction of the cost of a room addition! If you are interested in adding a pergola to your backyard, give us a call. Decks and pergolas are our favorite things to build!