Trellis for Cayman
By Pedro F. Theye
Friday, September 23, 2005
No matter whether you call them a trellis or pergola, the
beauty of their function is loved by all. Trellises are semi-roof structures,
which have a variety of functions. The first and most common use is for
creating shade against the skin peeling sun’s rays. Another function for these
garden structures is for growing vines and fruits, like grapes. Pergolas have
been used since the ancient times throughout Europe to define outdoor rooms.
The Mediterranean countries have mastered the use of these romantic pergolas
to top their balconies and roof top terraces. Trellis structures, as they are
known here, are also a great way to decorate residential, commercial, and
office buildings. The aesthetic value of a well placed trellis structure is
immeasurable. People always wonder what they can do to make their home more
appealing to possible buyers. A trellis with landscaping is an inexpensive way
to spruce up the overall look of your building, even if it’s an eyesore.
Vines in general are quick growers, and a trellis is an
ideal place for growing your favorite creeper to cover or accent your trellis.
Vines like Bougainvilleas, Mandevilla, Allemanda, Thumbergia, and Petrea are
just a few. Ask your nursery growers about the various characteristics of the
vines you prefer. Bougainvilleas for example can survive with very little
water and have great color, but are full of thorns. This could make them a
poor choice in locations where children play. If your trellis is near the
oceans’ spray, be sure to ask about salt tolerance and wind resistance of your
selected vines.
If you are constructing a wood trellis structure on to an
existing concrete slab, it is important to keep the wood post away from
standing water to avoid wood rot. Metal base connectors and rods can be
drilled then inserted with epoxy into the slab for a strong weather resistant
connection. Where the top of the post meets the beam there are various
connection techniques. Using rust resistant connectors or counter sinking the
bolts are the best options otherwise you will find all the connectors
corroding within the first few years. If the trellis is being attached to a
stylistically traditional building then attention should be put on the rafter
tails of the trellis structure. Rafters are the very top members of the
trellis which create the shade. The rafter tails are the portion of the
rafters that hang over the beam, opposite the wall. Rafter tails can be cut
with angles and curves to increase their aesthetic appeal. It is always
advisable to paint on a water sealant to protect the wood for years to come;
ask the hardware store personnel to show you the different products available.
There are also a number of synthetic trellis structures that are available
which would greatly decrease the maintenance hassle. Trellis structures in the
last 20 years have modernized to include moveable parts as well as rollback
canvases. Long sheets of canvas can be woven through the trellis rafters and
tied down with ropes. The benefit of using strips of removable canvas is for
periodically washing them. The combination of trellis and canvas allows for
increased shade levels as well giving your trellis a wicked look. The colour
of the trellis structure is typically the same colour of the building’s trim.
The structure can also be stained to the desired wood finish. In some cases a
contrasting color is used for the trellis, but can look terrible if you are
color blind. In some cases lattice sheets can be screwed to the top of the
rafters for added shade. Ring screws can be drilled to the trellis structure
and adjacent walls to create an ideal hammock spot or useful for hanging
flower baskets. Trellis or pergolas are great for adding value and beauty to
any new or existing building. It is also a great space to entertain and enjoy
the Caribbean way of life.
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