When it comes to transforming open spaces, Glassydur pergolas  are the perfect decorative solution. These are not very complex structures linked to each other with connection of beams supported by a series of pillars.

The versatility in their uses is closely linked to the different components with which they can be manufactured. Likewise, design is a major factor contributing to the choice of materials and the end result.

Wood, aluminum and even precast concrete,  which one offers the best guarantees? In order to answer this question, we will analyze the different types of pergolas, their advantages and uses in this article.

With Glassydur, discover all the opportunities that pergolas can offer, architectural structures that have been around for thousands of years.

THE FASHIONABLE DECORATIVE ELEMENT IN ENGLISH STYLE GARDENS OF THE 18TH CENTURY

In order to understand the characteristics of the pergolas  it is important to know their history. As far as we know, they were already in existence in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, with Great Britain extending their use to the rest of the world.

At the end of the 18th century, with the expansion of the landscape garden, wooden pergolas  began to gain the attention they have today. Unlike the styles that had marked earlier eras, the “English Garden” sought to enjoy nature, not control it.

This was achieved by combining natural elements such as plants, trees and rivers with pergolas or bridges that enhanced their beauty. Here we find the origin of the beautification of the pergolas with climbing plants

In 1900, the Arts  & Crafts  style made its first appearance in Great Britain, reviving its use as a decorative structure. In this case, the rustic pergolas  were used to connect spaces at different heights within the same garden.

This way, the English upper class was able to demonstrate its power and wealth

PERGOLAS TRANSFORM AND ENHANCE OPEN SPACES

As a reflection of the richness in the English example or to collect water in times of drought as in Italy,  they offer multiple solutions.

Classic, baroque or avant-garde, such as those of Glassydur, they can be adjusted to different types of projects.

In short, pergolas  transform, enhance and personalize. A very practical way to give or restore the functionality of a space. They provide privacy and contribute to acclimatization.

Therefore, they allow the outdoors to be enjoyed regardless of the time of year. They provide shadow and coolness in the summer and are a source of heat during the winter.

However, in order for this type of structure to fulfill its function successfully, it is important to analyze a series of questions: 

• What type of climate will it be exposed to?
• What is the usual trajectory of the sun?
• What will be the intended use?
• Where will it be installed? 

In order to get what we want to fit with the surroundings it is important to surround yourself with a team of experts.

At Glassydur,  we know that  the answers to these questions influence the choice of material and design.   

TYPES OF PERGOLAS

There are two main categories:  On the one hand, according to the shape we want them to have, they can be open, with enclosures or with 1, 2 and 4 slopes.

On the other hand, depending on the material used.

With respect to the first factor, the differences are as follows:

Open pergola

The open-top pergolas  are those that allow the light to pass intermittently, since, as their name indicates, they are open.

They are usually used as decorative elements in gardens, terraces and facades. They are made up of beams that can be adapted in size and shape to the project. If you wish to have privacy, you can always incorporate awnings or climbing plants.

Pergolas with enclosures

Pergolas with enclosures are those that, although allow us to enjoy the outside, are not as open as the previous ones. In this case, the ceiling or walls are almost completely covered.

In order to continue to be considered a pergola and not a room or an enclosed space, glass windows are used, for example.

Pergolas with 1, 2 and 4 slopes

Depending on the falldown of their roofs they can have one, two or four slopes.

When we talk about a slope, we mean that they are pergolas that are attached to the walls with a beam and several downpipes as pillars. The end result is similar to an awning.

Of all of them, the four-slope ones  are usually the most popular, as they have a more elegant finish.

As they have four falldowns, the sun cannot penetrate inside so they are perfect for garden settings, swimming pools, spa or restaurants.

GLASSYDUR PERGOLAS, THE MOST VERSATILE SOLUTION OF PRECAST CONCRETE

Once we have decided on the shape of our pergola, the next step is to choose the material. The most commonly used are: wood, aluminum, plastic and precast concrete.

The criteria for deciding on one option or another will depend mainly on the external factors to which the pergola will be exposed. If we take into consideration that they will always be outdoors, a humid climate is not the same as a warm one.

For example, in the case of wooden pergolas  we have to consider that their use in rainy places requires a lot of maintenance.

On the other hand, plastic pergolas  are not recommended for hot climates because they deteriorate easily. If we are looking for a material that does not require maintenance, is resistant and can be personalized, that is precast concrete.  Thanks to the innovations in the sector, it is possible to manufacture pergolas with prefabricated elements such as Glassydur.  

The high performance of a fire-resistant, thermally insulating and sustainable material such as Glassydur  applied to pergolas.

Did you know that it is even possible to reproduce the textures and colors of natural wood? The perfect combination.

SUCCESS STORIES

The versatility of Glassydur’s precast concrete pergolas  has been proven by practice.

Many are the projects in which its high performance has allowed it to offer innovative solutions.

On the island of La Palma, the municipality of Fuencaliente  wanted to incorporate an original and rustic decorative element in its new lookout point. In order to fulfill the second requirement, wooden logs were reproduced with Glassydur concrete.

The end result was a complete success.

In the case of Canary  Garden Club, the bungalow complex wanted to incorporate a decorative, innovative and minimalist structure. For this, a series of pergolas with matt white finishes were manufactured that completely transformed the room.

Rustic, culminating, innovative, modern and elegant. These are the Glassydur  precast concrete pergolas, a decorative solution for you.