For many years pergolas have been fashionable in Australian backyards, either freestanding or attached to the back of the house. In theory if you plant deciduous climbers they'll grow over your pergola and give you shade in summer and sunshine in winter. The problem is that they won't keep the rain off or protect you from the really hot summer sun, so they're not very practical for barbecue or entertainment areas. What's the best thing to do? Well Don recommends a large pavilion style roof over outdoor entertaining areas. Depending on the size of the area to be covered, four or six support posts would probably be sufficient, and ideally the roof should match the roof on your house. Imagine sitting with your friends under the shade of a decent roof, no rain on you, relaxing and having a quiet glass of wine or beer. It really does make a lot of sense.

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