A pergola is an outdoor building made up of columns that hold up a grid of beams for the roof. This roofing grid can be closed off or left open to create a protected space from the elements. Both freestanding and house-attached pergolas are possible. However, the term "pergola" is now used more broadly and refers to timber buildings. Considering that pergolas are frequently built into homes, they create an outdoor living area that effectively works as an extension for the inside rooms. A pergola is commonly placed over a patio or deck; it is built with posts and beams. A pergola that is fixed to a home will project from the external side or roof to create a shaded area that connects the interior of the house to the exterior. In other words, it gives a patio or outdoor area some form of roof, making your home's backyard even more attractive. Building a Perfect Pergola A pergola can be planned and built specifically for you by a contractor, though it is typically constr...