More than half of homeowners would like to make home improvements in the coming months according to recent reports. People have different ideas in mind for those projects. For the most part, though, they want to make their homes look better and make them work better for them. Of course, projects like those cost money, and homeowners want to be able to recoup as much of their investments as possible.
Not all home improvements cover all those bases. Some may make a home more aesthetically appealing, but they’re not very practical or functional. Others offer added functionality, but they do little to improve the appearance of a home. Certain projects may allow people to enjoy their homes more, but they ultimately cost more than they’re worth. An amazing diy pergola may be an exception to that rule.
Does a Pergola Increase a Home’s Value?
Like many property owners, you may be wondering where pergolas stand on this scale. Can they add value to a home? Overall, the answer here is yes. A pergola can certainly boost your property value. In fact, by some accounts, these structures can generate an ROI of up to 80 percent. That makes them one of the best improvements and additions for homeowners. This is a complex subject, though. Read on to learn more about how a pergola can raise your property value and how to get the most out of an investment like this.
How Do Pergolas Boost Property Values?
First, let’s delve into exactly how pergolas boost property values. On the most basic level, they’re useful structures that can add square footage to your home or give your property more functional space. That, alone, can bolster your property value because this figure is calculated in part based on square footage, usable space, and upgrades that have been made. Pergolas touch on all those points if they’re designed and built correctly. That’s only one factor to consider, though.
Improved Curb Appeal
Aside from that, a pergola can improve your home’s curb appeal. That means it’ll be more attractive to you, your guests, and random passersby. It’ll be more appealing to potential buyers as well. When they see that you’ve added this beautiful, versatile structure to the property, it’ll definitely pique their interest. It’s a nice feature that just isn’t found with all homes on the market.
As such, it’ll make your property stand out to prospects and increase the likelihood of getting your asking price if you decide to sell. Of course, you don’t have to sell your home to see this increase in property value. Simply seeing your home and your new pergola from afar will give you plenty of personal satisfaction.
Increased Functionality
Another way a pergola can raise your property value is by providing added functionality. Pergolas are extremely versatile structures. They can be used in any number of ways from providing simple spaces for enjoying time outdoors to housing outdoor kitchens and dining areas and beyond. You can even add to your pergola over time or change the way you use it as your needs and lifestyle evolve.
A pergola can give you year-round use as well if it’s equipped with the right features, like a retractable awning, an adjustable louvered roof, glass windows, or screens. Adding lighting, built-in seating and storage, and other features to the mix can further ramp up its functionality. All those elements may factor into just how much of a return your pergola generates. It’ll give you endless ways to enjoy your home and outdoor space as well, which is worth far more than money.
How to Get the Most Out of a Pergola
Those are some of the key ways a pergola can improve your property value. As is the case with any home improvement project, though, not all pergolas are created equally. To get the maximum return on your investment, you’ll need to approach the project in the right way. Several factors enter the mix here, so it’s best to plan ahead and think carefully before adding a pergola to your property. Keep the following points in mind when you’re planning your pergola.
Materials Matter
One of the most important aspects is the material your pergola is made of. Brick and natural stone can make for a lovely pergola, but they’re quite costly. They’re not as versatile as other materials, and they don’t mesh well with all homes and properties, either. On top of that, they may require a great deal of upkeep. Wood is also popular. Wood pergolas cost less upfront than other versions, but they require constant maintenance to keep them in good condition. That increases their long-term costs.
Vinyl is a bit more expensive than wood, but it doesn’t require a lot of care. It can last a long time under the right conditions. Unfortunately, though, it may not live up to local building codes for wind tolerance. Composite wood is also gaining popularity. It looks like natural wood but isn’t as vulnerable to the elements. Aluminum has become the material of choice for many homeowners. It’s durable and long lasting, and it requires little maintenance. It’s more expensive than some other materials, but its lower long-term costs make it well worth the upfront price.
Choose the Size Carefully
Another way to make the most of your pergola is to choose the size carefully. If your pergola is too small, it won’t add much square footage and functional space to your property, and you won’t be able to get as much use out of it. If it’s too large, though, it’ll take up too much space in your yard, and it may end up being more of an obstacle and an eyesore than an improvement. Find a nice middle ground based on the size of your home and property.
Maintenance Is Important
Additionally, it’s important to keep your pergola in optimal condition. Even those that don’t require much maintenance can benefit from an occasional touch up or pressure wash. Giving your pergola the attention it deserves will keep it beautiful and ensure it lasts for years to come. If you ignore maintenance, the pergola is bound to deteriorate, and it’ll detract from your property value rather than improving it.
Maximizing Your Property Value With a Pergola
A pergola can increase your property value in several ways. It’ll also give you more ways to enjoy your home. To get the most out of an investment like this, in terms of your ROI and personal satisfaction, you’ll need to take the right approach to installing a pergola on your property. Choose the right size, shape, and materials, and don’t overlook the value of routine maintenance.