So, What's a Pergola?

The official Wikipedia definition for a pergola is "a garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway or sitting area of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon which woody vines are trained." If you're still here after that long sentence, a pergola is basically sturdier open-sided tent of sorts, usually made of wood.

Need to see a few examples? Here you go.











They're great for providing outdoor shade or protection from rain in an area, provided the roof of the pergola is covered. As stated in the Wikipedia definition, some like to train vines or other types of plants to grow on or around their pergola, which makes it feel more like a part of nature than a man-made structure.

Paradise Decking can build pergolas, as well as decks, sunrooms, covered porches, and room additions. Give us a call today at (336) 282-3374 and ask us about receiving a FREE pergola estimate for your home.

Tips for a Great Deck Party

One of the major reasons homeowners opt for deck installations on their property is for the entertainment factor. Such an inviting outdoor space is great for gatherings like barbecues and parties, but in order to make such a gathering the best it can be, there are a few tips you'll want to keep in mind.

Make the space even more inviting. Arrange tables and chairs so that they're more likely to be used by people who are engaging in conversation. Try to keep them out of the way, though, so people don't feel crammed together.

Get your landscape into shape. Do you want to impress with your deck, only to turn people off when they see your unmaintained lawn? Mow, trim, and clean up any debris laying around the yard.

Protect your guests. Mosquitoes and other bugs can be quite the nuisance during a deck party. Be sure to keep bug spray, citronella candles, or other repellant items around for guest use.

Let tunes set the mood. Have some kind of stereo, CD, or MP3 player out on your deck to provide music. This keeps things from getting awkwardly silent, provides some party background music, and gives your guests a reason to dance.

Don't have a deck yet? Paradise Decking would love to help you build one. Give us a call today to request a FREE deck building quote. We can be reached at (336) 282-3374.