Adding a pergola on the main rooftop of the house has become a trend these days, as it brings in a great amount of natural sunshine. However, it isn’t good to blindly imitate this trend even if it isn’t necessary.
A pergola is required in a house that is surrounded by other houses or concrete structures that block the sunlight from entering the house. So, the pergola on the rooftop would bring an ample amount of sunshine into the house. Besides, it would be a great addition if you plan to build an additional floor in the future. This opening could be used to build the staircase from the inside. Experts say that a pergola should be added only if it is absolutely essential as there is a chance that it could do more harm than good.
You cannot use the space taken by the pergola on the terrace for anything else. Moreover, the pergola would be a waste in case you plan to install a GI truss roof. Besides, building a pergola roof isn’t cheap too. It could in fact create a dent in your pocket if not done wisely. Here are some of the points to keep in mind while installing a pergola roof:
» While concrete proofing, make sure to raise the area where you intend to install the pergola at least at a height of 10 cm. This would prevent the rainwater from leaking into the house. Besides, the area around this raised platform should be sloped and plastered. If possible, waterproofing this area would be a great idea.
» This should be raised again using bricks at a height of two to three feet. Do not forget to plaster this area nicely to seal everything. It would be easier to clean this area if the pergola space is constructed in this manner. Moreover, no one would step on the glass pergola if it is built on a raised platform.
» Air holes should be added on all four sides of the platform. You could install PVC pipes too. Make sure that they are built on the slope. Securing the outer end of these pipes would keep the mosquitoes away. In case the air holes aren’t on the slope, then the strong winds would bring the water droplets into the house during monsoon.
» The air holes would take out the hot air and prevents moisture from forming into droplets on the inner surface of the glass panel. Most people mistake this for leakage. But, the hot air gets condensed into moisture particles and sticks to the surface.
» It would be wise to install a small exhaust fan inside one of the air holes. It would easily push out the hot air. Switch on this exhaust fan in case you are hosting a party and the house is filled with guests. It would ensure a pleasant atmosphere inside the house.
» It is better to use toughened glass for the pergola. In case it breaks, the damage would be lesser compared to a regular glass panel. The glass panel too should be placed in a sloped manner to ensure that the rainwater flows effortlessly. Besides, it is easier to clean too. Try to install a single panel of glass instead of joining more than one panel as there is a chance for leakage through the joints.
» Always install the glass pergola at a spot that is easily accessible so that it could be cleaned at intervals.
Pergola grants a modern look to the structure. It illuminates the interiors with natural sunshine so that you do need not switch on the light during the day. However, if not done properly, the pergola could be a liability. Most people who have fallen for the incredible looks of the pergola roof say that it might look great for a short period of time, after which it becomes difficult to maintain.