The garden arbor is one of the most attractive features in a garden by virtue of its large size, lush plants and lovable shape calling out to passersby. Indeed, if you want to add oomph to your garden without making your pockets say ouch, then a garden arbor is the best project you can undertake this weekend. Here then is the ABC that every homeowner must know when planning this garden structure.
A – Architectural Layers
At first glance, the garden arbor may appear complex mainly because of its basic shape coupled with the necessary support system. You will be changing your mind when the five basic architectural layers are exposed for your better understanding of how the arbor is constructed from the ground up. These five architectural layers are:
- Concrete is poured beneath the ground to serve as the structure’s stable, strong and secure foundation
- Two posts are sunk into the concrete to act as the pillars
- Two crosspieces run along the sides of the two posts and placed perpendicularly at the very top to form a sandwich
- Rafters will be placed atop the crosspieces in a perpendicular position
- Wood will lie across the rafters also in a perpendicular pattern
When you see the patterns that the wood makes, you will realize that the garden arbor is actually an easy do-it-yourself project. You may, however, opt to hire a professional carpenter to do the job if you are not confident about your woodworking skills.
B -Benefits to the Arbor
Well, of course, there are numerous benefits to the garden arbor that account for its popularity among homeowners and gardening professionals alike. A few of these benefits are:
- Ease of Construction – As previously mentioned, the garden arbor can be an easy DIY project with the average enthusiast able to build a mid-sized structure in approximately 2 days of wood.
- Affordable Cost – Scrap lumber can be used to build the arbor. The main requirement is that the wood must be pressure-treated to withstand the rigors of exposure to weather.
- Function – The garden arbor can be used as a cultivation platform wherein plants can be made to climb up and over the structure. Grapes, roses and vines are great examples of such plants.
- Beauty – The structure can be used as a man made accessory to add beauty to the garden. You can place twinkling lights on top, shine a spotlight on it or surround it with lights, all of which are designed to call attention to the arbor during the night. Its beauty during the day is already evident in the plants.
C – Construction of the Structure
You can find many garden arbor plans over the Internet. These plans usually have a complete list of the materials, small tools and equipment necessary to construct the arbor from the ground up. Look for other important guides like a schematic diagram, a detailed drawing and even extension plans just in case you will need these in the future.
Truly, when you come to think about it, the garden arbor can be as easy as ABC. The trick is in following instructions, which everybody is expected to do anyway.