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The Pros and Cons of a Wood vs. Vinyl Pergola Thinking about buying a pergola? It’s a great option to consider. With a classic, airy Italian design they are a popular choice because they are a minimal addition to a home or business, are easy-to-install, and easy-to-match to your current style. Most can be set on a pre-installed and leveled base. For that semi-shaded, comfortable place to relax in pergolas can hardly be beat, but there is one question many pergola buyers have: Should I buy a wood or vinyl pergola? Haven’t decided whether you want a pergola, gazebo, or pavilion? Here are some quick links to get you started. What is a Pergola? What is a Pavilion? What is a Gazebo? Back to the wood vs. vinyl question in pergolas. For your convenience we went ahead and highlighted some points below to give you a quick guide to the questions. Skim the pros and cons Does a wood or vinyl pergola last longer? Will a wood or vinyl pergola need more maintenance? Could vinyl crack or blow off in the wind? How long will paint last? Will it crack or chip? Design & Style: making the choice for a wood vs. vinyl pergola Let’s get started. Does a wood or vinyl pergola last longer? They both have approximately a lifetime of use with proper maintenance. The vinyl takes less major maintenance, though it can crack or become brittle with age and may be a harder fix if certain sections need to be replaced. Wood can withstand a little more in regards to being hit with stray objects, such as a rock thrown up by a lawn mower, but will need to be repainted or stained periodically. Takeaway: both have a lifetime of use with good maintenance. Will wood or vinyl pergola need more maintenance? Wood siding won’t last nearly as long if it isn’t maintained, though if kept properly painted or stained every 7-10 years it will age well. Vinyl can last for decades without major care, needing only periodic power washing to keep it from looking bad. In some climates mold is more apt to “go green” on vinyl making a difference in how often a good washing is needed. A good rule of thumb is that vinyl will probably need periodic power washing every 1-3 years, especially here on the east coast with the higher humidity and temps. It’s up to the home or business owner to keep the pergola looking as they prefer. Takeaway: time between maintenance. Do you prefer a large project less often, or a smaller maintenance every 1-3 years? Could vinyl crack or blow off in the wind? It could, but it is resilient, especially when it is still new. Over the years it can become more brittle and a fugitive stone from a mower blade can damage it, but it isn’t likely to blow off in winds if it has been installed well, and a storm would need to be extreme to harm it. We recommend going with a manufacturer that uses top notch material for pergolas. The cost may be a little higher initially, but the return you will see in a quality product will benefit you for much longer than an average building would. Of course, we can recommend our own selection at Ulrich Lifestyle because we know firsthand that top-quality materials are selected, and our craftsmen build them for strength and durability. How long will paint last? Will it crack or chip? The sun is paint’s worst enemy. Good quality paint (or stain) should last 7-10 years if the pergola is in a shady spot, or perhaps a year or two less in direct sun. Finishes these days come with a lifetime warranty, but we find that the hard fact of the matter is paint and stain does wear out more often than that if you want to keep the pergola in tip top shape. Some manufacturers use subpar materials that interfere with how long the structure will last. For example, we try to avoid the “limited lifetime” mindset at Ulrich Lifestyle by using LP Smart Siding as a wood option. The LP option is highly moisture resistant, and with a proper stain schedule the pergolas we build should easily last a lifetime. Design & Style: making the choice for a wood vs. vinyl pergola Look around. What is the current material on your home or business? What is the style? Which maintenance will suit your home or business better: periodic washing more often, or  a major paint/restain less often? An advantage of wood is that the color scheme can easily be changed just by repainting. This would not be possible for a vinyl pergola. An advantage of vinyl on pergolas is that most houses these days have some form of vinyl siding, so it can be an option that blends easily with your home or business or the neighborhood. The colors will be more limited, but it may be easier choice to match what is already on the property. Either way you decide, wood or vinyl, they should both serve you well for many years of the ultimate goal here: place of relaxation for customers, family or friends.

The Pros and Cons of a Wood vs. Vinyl Gazebo After scrolling Pinterest, surveying your backyard or business location, and checking to see the options in your area, you may have decided that the gazebo is the outdoor building of your dreams. We congratulate you! It’s not easy to decide on a large feature like a gazebo, but we feel that the return on how much enjoyment you will get out of it is amazing. There might be one question, though, that you just can’t seem to settle. Do I want a wood or vinyl gazebo? For this one it doesn’t make a difference whether you’re running the options by the board, your husband or wife, or sifting through options for yourself, there are a good amount of pros and cons to consider. Haven’t decided whether you want a pergola, gazebo, or pavilion? Here are some quick links to get you started. What is a Pergola? What is a Pavilion? What is a Gazebo? Back to gazebos. For your convenience we’ve gathered a few Q’s & A’s we’ve gathered to help simplify the process. Skim the pros and cons Will a wood or vinyl gazebo last longer? What is the maintenance schedule for wood vs. vinyl gazebos? Could the vinyl on a gazebo crack or blow off in the wind? How long will paint on a gazebo last? Will it crack or chip? Design & Style: making the choice for a wood vs. vinyl gazebo. Will a Wood or Vinyl Gazebo last longer? They both have approximately a lifetime of use with proper maintenance. The vinyl takes less major maintenance, though it can crack or become brittle with age and may be a harder fix if certain sections need to be replaced. Wood can withstand a little more in regards to being hit with stray objects, such as a rock thrown up by a lawn mower, but will need to be repainted or stained periodically. Takeaway: Both wood and vinyl have a lifetime of use with good maintenance. What is the maintenance schedule for wood vs. vinyl gazebos? It’s mostly in the type of care needed. As we mentioned above, wood will need periodic repainting or staining, whereas vinyl usually only requires a good power washing.  Vinyl takes less major maintenance, but needs it more often, especially in humid climates such as we have on the east coast. Mold grows easily here and it means we have to keep after our buildings a little more often than say, a place like Arizona. Takeaway: What maintenance schedule works for you? Do you prefer a large project less often, or a smaller maintenance every 1-3 years? Could the vinyl on a gazebo crack or blow off in the wind? It could, but it is quite resilient, especially when it is still new. Over the years it can become more brittle and a fugitive stone from a mower blade can damage it. It isn’t likely to blow off in winds if it has been installed well, and the storm would need to be extreme to harm it. We recommend going with a manufacturer that uses top notch material for gazebos. The cost may be a little higher initially, but the return you will see in the quality product will benefit you for much longer than an average building would. For example, with Ulrich’s gazebos we know firsthand that when top-quality materials are selected and buildings are built with strength and durability in mind, they go easier on your wallet and time in the long run. How long will paint on a gazebo last? Will it crack or chip? The same sun in Arizona that inhibits mold growth on siding will also quickly wear down a paint job, and a building in the east may not need refinished as quickly as out west for that reason. The fact of the matter in any climate though, is that to keep a gazebo in tip top shape it will need periodic care. This is especially the case when cheap wood and paint is used. Top quality wood on a gazebo can make the world of a difference when comparing it to the lifetime of a gazebo built with subpar wood. For example, for Ulrich’s gazebos we use pressure-treated southern yellow pine, which is highly moisture and rot resistant and can easily last a lifetime with a proper refinish every 7-10 years. In the end analysis, we find that using cheaper products simply won’t hold out for your wallet or lifetime use in gazebos that have to stand up against the weather. Design & Style: making the choice for a wood vs. vinyl gazebo Now it comes down to the freedom of choice. Which one will you decide is best for lifestyle, maintenance, and design? Design is a biggie. You want to know how much it might cost and that a gazebo will stand the test of time, but when it comes down to it you have to decide what is going to match the current style of your property. Here are a few questions to consider: What is the current siding material on my home or business property? What is the main color scheme? Which style is going to look best: traditional, contemporary, modern, or classic? It’s a fascinating lot of questions, and exciting to figure out. Style boards on Pinterest can help, but in the end the biggest help is going to be to get out there and start looking at the options available. We’d be glad to help you at any time with our experience and resources–click here to contact us.  In the meantime, happy shopping!

Gazebo Options: Making the Best Decisions It’s a warm summer evening, cold drink in your hand, friends sitting around, the smell of burgers are coming across the fresh-cut lawn, music is playing, and you’re finally hosting the reunion your family has talked about for years. The best part is the brand-new gazebo that was delivered just beforehand, and it’s the focal spot of your dream landscape. Everyone loves it. Regretfully for most of us the dream gazebo is still sitting on our Pinterest board, or in the outdoor living catalogues we’ve collected the past few years, until now. It can be hard to go from dreaming about gazebo ideas to turning your ideas into reality. If you’ve been staying tuned into to Ulrich Lifestyle’s blog you’ll see we’ve been doing a series of info posts to help you get started. What is a Pergola Wood vs. Vinyl Pergola What is a Pavilion Wood vs. Vinyl Pavilion What is a Gazebo Wood vs. Vinyl Gazebo Today’s post is about gazebo ideas and options, and it gives some of the basic and luxe options available. We can’t vouch that every company offers the same things, but this covers many of the options we have available at Ulrich Lifestyle. Skim the ideas and options: Roof materials for gazebos Floor materials for gazebos Gazebos for entertainment: electrical, lighting and fans Gazebos with screens: no bugs allowed Style & design: the customized gazebo Roof materials for gazebos Of all the options you can look at for a gazebo, roof choices are actually more of a necessary part of structure. We’ve included it in the gazebo options because while the roof is one surface of a building that is going to be most exposed to the most weather, it is one of the first things people look at and you want to make a great  impression. Options for gazebo roofs Shingles are made of asphalt and are the workhorse of the roofing industry, coming in at lifetime guarantees of up to 30 years. They are considered an entry or mid-level option for those looking to go easy on their wallet and get a roof that will last them a good while. Usually come in a nice variety of color options. Metal is the relatively new kid on the block and is becoming a desired choice for gazebo owners because of its longevity and the lovely, relaxing sound it makes when it rains. It has a slightly increased price tag, but by the same token lasts for more than a lifetime. Also available in a good range of colors and designs. Luxe roofing options aren’t sold everywhere, but can make for a show-stopping gazebo. This includes materials such as cedar wood shakes, rubber slate shingles, or the option of going with the new, minimal look of bare wood (treated, of course). If you’re looking to create a focal centerpiece of a garden, landscape, luxury home or business, these are excellent options. Floor materials for Gazebos Flooring is another necessary part of any gazebo, so you will want it look good and stand the test of traffic. The quality and support in any flooring varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but Ulrich Lifestyle’s standard gazebo floors come built with pressure-treated southern yellow pine wood, double 2 x 6 floor joists for support, and 2 x 6 solid wood decking boards finished however you want them. From there on out the options are icing on the cake. A couple of floor options to consider in gazebos: Composite decking is made of a combination of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastic. Because this material is so durable and impervious to rot it has a longer life-span than an average wood used for decking. The lifetime increases even more in gazebos because it is not exposed to as much weather as an average deck would be. Wood floor boards are the standard in most gazebos, and if built well with a quality pressure-treated wood last a lifetime. If you’re looking for many stain and paint options this would definitely be a quality, yet economical way to go. Gazebos with screens: no bugs allowed One of the things that can most quickly disturb the peace are mosquitoes. They may come and go with cool and warm weather, windy or still nights, and aside from spraying vast quantities of DEET sprays there isn’t much to do about it except keep slapping. This is why adding screens to a gazebo is a fantastic option. In fact, if you live near mosquito-prone areas this may be one of the most important options you can add to the gazebo to make it comfortable and usable throughout the year. Screens are truly worth every extra penny it takes. Gazebos for entertainment: electrical, lighting and fan options Full use of a gazebo for entertaining and relaxing, especially in evenings when most of us have the time, often means adding some conveniences like lights, fans, and outlets. While some people view this as a DIY project we see it more from the perspective that there is a reason electricians are licensed; you want to light your evening, not create fireworks. Adding an electrical package to your gazebo will not cost much and can add hours of fun to the night. Most gazebo companies have a range of ceiling fans, lights and outlet placements to choose from, and the convenience of having the building delivered “ready-made” is usually greater than hiring someone to do it after the fact. Style & Design: customizations The fun of any outdoor building is that there are possibilities for customizations galore. There are railing styles from Baroque to Colonial, roof styles that include pagoda and bell tower roofs, and little details such as lighting and trim that create a truly memorable gazebo. For design inspo, as always, we suggest Pinterest and ideas from one of our recent blog posts with gazebo ideas. Or we would love to see you at one of our locations in Virginia. Stop on by, we’d love to discuss the options in detail with you. Looking for a gazebo for your backyard? We’re here to help!

Start by asking the right question Do I need permit to for a shed in Waynesboro, VA? This is a very important question. And if you aren’t directly involved with the building and construction industry, this tends to be an overwhelming subject. All this business of filling out the right paperwork, coordinating everything with the builder or delivery guys, and paying permit fees can be a major headache. It’s no longer just the decision of which gazebo, pergola, pavilion, shed or garage to buy, but the process of figuring what you can or can’t do. After years in this industry, we get it, so we gave city Building & Zoning office in Waynesboro a call to see what it takes. There are a few steps involved, but it turns out to be less complicated than it sounds. Check out the overview and details of the specs below. QUICK STATS Do I need permit to for a shed in Waynesboro, VA? The 10-second answer: Accessory permits: any building under 256 sq. ft. can be delivered/built with an accessory permit. Building permits: any building over 265 sq. ft. will need a building permit. Options such as heating and electrical require separate and specific permits. For zoning: building must be installed more than 5’ from property line. The exception to this is corner lots, those need to be at least 9′ from property line. Let’s hit the “fun” details. Accessory & Building Permits The first step is figuring out whether you will need a building or accessory permit. According to the Building & Zoning office in Waynesboro it’s really a simple answer: is the building under or over 265 sq. ft? If it is under 256 sq. ft you will need an accessory permit, and if it is over that size you will need to apply for a building permit. For example, to find the square footage of the building you would like to purchase, multiply the ‘length x width’ of the building, or simply ask a sales reps for help. Examples for common sizes of buildings under 256 ft2 are: 12×20, or 14×18. Checklist for Accessory permit (- 265) Fill out Accessory Structure Building Application Pay fee for accessory permit of $25. Double check the exceptions list below for Accessory permits. File Permit with office at 503 W. Main St., Waynesboro, VA 22980 (map this) Checklist for Building permit (+ 265) Fill out Building Permit Application Pay the building permit fee of $50 Find out if inspection is required for your structure, foundation or options. You can do this by calling the Building & Zoning Department at 540-942-6628. Call at least 24 hours in advance to schedule an inspection. File Permit with office at 503 W. Main St., Waynesboro, VA 22980 (map this) Exceptions for buildings under 256 sq. ft. that will need additional permits Electricity: building wired for electricity require a separate electrical permit. Heating: buildings to have heat installed will need a separate permit, unless you are planning to use a space heater. Foundation: if you’re pouring in a concrete foundation you will automatically need to apply for a building permit, regardless of size. If the building is below the 256 sq ft and you have plans to set it on gravel only the accessory permit is required. Advice from Ulrich Lifestyle: we suggest that if you need a building permit, you should still bring in a drawing for the Building & Zoning Office to stamp and give back to you so you have a copy of the approval. Should you choose Ulrich Lifestyle your sales rep should be able to give you that drawing. Buildings under 256 sq. ft. must still be built to code for adequate snow load, wind resistance, etc. Some manufacturers such as Ulrich Lifestyle, already submit building plans to permit and zoning offices to verify that they are up to common code – some manufacturers don’t so each home or business owner is responsible to check into and see what is needed. The advantage of Ulrich Lifestyle is that the entire process should go faster, and there’s little chance of inspection failure. As one Building and Zoning officer said, “You all have done a lot of work – it takes the guess work out of it.” Zoning Permit or Permissions Zoning permits are all about concern for where the building is placed. This is about three primary issues. Utilities. This concerns the electricity, water, sewer, electricity and gas companies. If your gas company comes to check out a leak and your new shed or gazebo happens to be sitting on top of where the leak could be, it’s a fairly sure bet the gas company will win on whether or not the building gets moved. Easements. This looks similar to the utilities questions. Easements is the land you may own and pay taxes on, but land utility companies can still dig up as they please. Setbacks. This is the distance your building sits from a property line. In Waynesboro the minimum setback is 5’, or on a corner lot 9’. This is something that should be paid attention to, because confirming that it’s ok to set a building or outdoor structure somewhere could save you a bucketload of trouble down the road. The city doesn’t want to have to tell you to move a building, so make sure to check with the Building & Zoning office first for any applicable permits or permissions for your specific location. Building & Zoning can be reached at (540) 942-6628 Their hours are Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Website is located at https://www.waynesboro.va.us/131/Building-Zoning. That wraps up our ‘Permits in Waynesboro’ guide. If you have any questions feel free to contact the Building & Zoning office directly at: 540- 942-6628, or check in with Ulrich Lifestyle for specs about ordering a building. Thanks for stopping by! As of  November 2016 this information was accurate. And the links worked! Please — let us know if anything needs to be corrected, updated, or expanded. And next time you have to ask “Do I need permit to for a shed in Waynesboro, VA” remember Ulrich Lifestyle is here to help.

Pergola Options: Making the Best Decisions By definition a pergola is a glorified arbor, but what glory! For a simple wooden structure with at least four supporting posts it covers ground with class and sophistication. The very nature of pergolas suggests outdoors, sunshine, warm breezes, and if you’re lucky, some kabobs grilling nearby to add to the general sense of well-being. Pergolas are simple, but they come with a fair share of options and we’re going to go ahead and cover some of these for you pergola-lovers who are hoping to buy in the near future. Next Summer: Skim the options Install a base: does a pergola come with a floor? Wood vs. Vinyl Pergolas Roof cover options for all-weather pergolas Style & Design: accessories for Pergolas Start now: checklist to buying a pergola Install a base: does a Pergola come with a floor? Excellent question. Pergolas don’t come with an installed base or floor like a gazebo, so it will need some type of base. You could set them on a level base of any type, though most people go with options like concrete, stamped concrete, stone, and wood decking. The idea of having a foundation is to give the pergola a secure foothold, and companies like Ulrich Lifestyle will offer anchor brackets and concrete lag bolts to make sure that a stout wind doesn’t topple the pergola. If you don’t like the look of exposed brackets there is the option of adding post skirtings, which are a little like installing door and floor trim in your house to give it that perfectly finished look. Wood vs. Vinyl Pergolas Wood or vinyl comes down to two basic considerations: maintenance and style. Quality wood with a good stain or paint will last approximately 5-10 years in between finishes whereas cheap wood or stain may need it every 3-5 years. A good vinyl will not need refinishing, however it will probably require a power washing every 1-3 years depending on humidity in your location as eastern locations tend to “Go Green” more quickly. Style is the other factor here, and for some people all it takes is to match the current siding on your home or business to the new structure. If everything on the property is already vinyl you might decide it’s not worth it to deviate off the designs already going. On the other hand if your property is all about a rustic log cabin look – wood may be the sweet spot for you. We’ve written about this more in-depth in a blog post here, so if you need a little more info on the pros and cons feel free to head on over there for the full FYI. Roof cover options for all-weather pergolas Most of us aren’t interested in relaxing in either blinding sun or light rain, and since we aren’t all-weather ourselves prefer to bring in some outside help: enter the EZ Shade System. Available in canopies and curtains, this system is the one we use almost exclusively with Ulrich Lifestyle’s pergolas to provide the ultimate sunblock/rain protection. The EZ Shade is installed on a triple track system that is manually controlled, and the material quality is manufactured to hold out against the elements, plus resist mildew and fading. We recommend this highly for the protection, privacy, and unique style it brings to a property. The fabric designs and colors cover a wide range of style and taste, and we find there is usually something for everyone. Check out this photo below for ideas on how the EZ Shade or Canopy is utilized. Style & Design: accessories for Pergolas Love details? You will have fun with the smaller options on pergolas, such as: higher posts changing the post style replacing posts with stone columns electrical packages headers to attach the pergola to your home or business. These choices are what differentiate between common pergolas and those that stop the show, or host it. Install the right option, such as an electrical package, and you have a ready-to-go venue for an outdoor dinner or party. Attach it to your home and the kitchen will be right there for easy convenience. Adding a pergola to your property will enhance the curb appeal a great deal, and the options and accessories will set it apart to make it both a relaxing retreat and unique venue for a party.  A pergola might not be able to change the world, but it can change your world. Start now: checklist for buying a pergola Fall & Winter: create a budget and plan your space. Look at building sizes, measure your outdoor space, search Pinterest, pick-up brochures from companies, browse websites, and dream of the greener days to come. Decide on whether or not to hire landscaper. Spring: actively begin shopping. Price and quality compare, check to see who offers free delivery and installation and who doesn’t. Surprise! Manufacturers really get busy in the spring, so you may have over a month of lead time for the best pergolas. If you wait until April or May you might have 1-2 months to wait. Engage someone to level your space or put in a base. Summer: provide level base or foundation, and start haunting greenhouses and home project stores. Pergola installed. Enjoy: Once the pergola is in you have the major part of the project out of the way and you can lay stone, plant flowers and begin to cook-out to your heart’s content! Helpful links: What is a Pergola → Wood vs. Vinyl Pergola Feel free to stop on by Ulrich Lifestyle and ask a few questions, we’re here to help.

When you think of Christmas, you may not think of home repairs, but Christmas in Action of Cleburne, TX does.  For them, as quoted by Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street; “Christmas isn’t just a day, it’s a state of mind,” and with that mindset, they keep the spirit of Christmas alive all year long.   The Christmas in Action program started in Midland, TX by a man named Bobby Trimble, who was moved to help the elderly in his hometown to make home repairs that they could not.  One sunny day in April, as they made repairs for an elderly woman, she exclaimed “This is just like Christmas in April,” and Christmas in April was founded.  When they decided to complete more projects throughout the year, they changed the name to Christmas in Action. A worker for the City of Cleburne, Theresa Bednar, used to travel the city and would be forced to write tickets to elderly people, she knew had no ability to fix the things she was ticketing them for.  The leaning carports, the falling fascia, and unsightly landscaping they had no power to repair themselves, so she decided to take matters into her own hands and give them the helping hands they needed.   She contacted Bobby Trimble and brought him up to train her team in how to help those who could not help themselves. Christmas in Action is run completely on donations and volunteer labor, and each year, Ulrich donates a playhouse to be auctioned off to raise money for any upcoming projects, blind bids are taken throughout late November and December, and the highest bidder gets the building delivered to them for Christmas.  The building is also used as a parade float for the city parade, adorned with lights and garland; the building is showcased for the entire city to see.  We encourage anyone in the Johnson County area to either bid on or donate to this wonderful charity, who is not only beautifying neighborhoods but building relationships between neighbors. For more information, please visit their website at www.christmasinaction.net #BobbyTrimble

Pavilion Options: Making the Best Decisions Do you have a personal retreat in mind that you’ve been itching to create in real life? We’ve all been there; hustling the hustle to get to our dream life, and some of us have forgotten to live out our dreams in real time. If you think it’s time to create reality, we have the secret to finally getting from Point A (grassy area) to Point B (lush outdoor living space). Let’s get started with the options and choices. Next Summer: Skim the options Install a base: does a pavilion come with a floor? Top it off: roof options for pavilions Entertaining in pavilions: accessorize EZ Shade Canopy System Start now: checklist to buying a pavilion Install a base: does a pavilion come with a floor? Pavilions come without floors, which leaves the question of whether you like a base of stone, wood, or concrete better. Concrete is the first option, and one that sounds unglamorous but can actually masquerade as almost any type of base. There is the option of pouring a simple flat floor of concrete, but concrete can also be stamped, stained, and finished to look like stone or wood. This is a project you will want to hire a professional to have done, as the tools and skills of the trade aren’t usually laying around the garage. Stone is one of the traditional and beautiful bases. Lay in a pattern of “tile,” flagstones, or simple geometric patterns and you will have something to admire that will hold up for years to come. Only attempt this yourself if you have landscaping or construction background. Wood, the option that isn’t quite as popular but nonetheless viable. Probably a best option for the type of weather it will have to withstand is composite decking, or a sturdy decking board made of something like a hardwood and finished with an outdoor stain or paint. Also best done by a professional. Top it off: roof options for pavilions Roofs are arguably a necessity for a structure like a pavilion, but they are also a fun option to decide on. Shingles are made of asphalt and are the workhorse of the roofing industry, coming in at lifetime guarantees of anywhere from 10-25 years. They are considered an entry or mid-level option for those looking to go easy on their wallet and get a roof that will last them a good while. Come in a nice variety of color options. Metal is the relatively new kid on the block and is becoming the desired choice for many gazebo owners because of its longevity, look, and beautiful sound it makes when it rains. It has a slightly increased price tag, but by the same token lasts for more than a lifetime. Also available in a good range of colors and designs. There is a difference between standard metal and standing seam roofs. The basic metal roof has exposed screws, with seams overlapped, while a standing seam roof has overlapped ridges bent to shed water better. The standing seam roof has hidden fastenings and more of a “finished” or polished look. Standing seam tends to run more expensive. Entertaining in pavilions: accessorize By nature these open air outdoor structures are charming places to host a crowd, and there are a few options to make it even better for a home or business venue. This pavilion combination is the perfect way to illustrate the customizations and accessories you can add to a pavilion. The owners first began by dreaming up a building/pavilion combination and then added a beautiful wood ceiling, light fixtures, and an electrical package. The floor is laid with stone tile and the pergola itself has 10” columns instead of the standard posts. Not all outdoor living companies may offer advanced options such as this, but if you want to discuss options for simple of luxe outdoor structures, Ulrich Lifestyle will be glad to help you with questions. EZ Shade Canopy System Again, an option not available with every manufacturer, but a fantastic option to add to your pergola for comfort and design. This canopy can be installed on a pergola to give you privacy or protect from the sun, wind or rain. It is installed on a triple track system to be opened and closed easily, and the material used is strong, fade-resistant, and available in a fun variety of prints and colors. The other, more permanent option is a wall built in on one side for the same reasons, but with a longer lifetime. Start now: checklist for buying a pavilion Fall & Winter: create a budget and plan your space. Look at building sizes, measure your outdoor space, search Pinterest, pick-up brochures from companies, browse websites, and dream of the greener days to come. Decide on whether or not to hire landscaper. Spring: actively begin shopping. Price and quality compare, check to see who offers free delivery and installation and who doesn’t. Surprise! Manufacturers really get busy in the spring, so you may have over a month of lead time for the best pavilions. If you wait until April or May you might have 1-2 months to wait. Engage someone to level your space or put in a base. Summer: provide level base or foundation, and start haunting greenhouses and home project stores. Pavilion installed. Enjoy: Once the pavilion is in you have the major part of the project out of the way and you can lay stone, plant flowers and begin to cook-out to your heart’s content! Helpful links: What is a Pavilion → Wood vs. Vinyl Pavilion Happy shopping!

Do I Need a Permit to Build or Buy a Storage Shed in Mechanicsville, VA? If you’ve landed at this blog post you have already asked the question “Do I Need a Permit to Build or Buy a Storage Shed in Mechanicsville, VA” Most of us have a general idea that permits are needed for new construction, but for buildings pre-built and then delivered things get a little fuzzy. Adding a small 8 x 10 garage or 12’ octagon gazebo isn’t a big deal, and since we own the property we get to decide what to do with it, right? Well, yes, and no. Adding an 8 x 10 garage shed wouldn’t require a building permit, but it may need a zoning permit. Suppose that new building gets placed on a gas line, and that gas line leaks? You will soon find out from the city or county that it would’ve been better to check first before installing the new building that is making your life so much easier, until now. Much of why you may need a permit is common sense, however the process may look daunting, so we called up the Hanover County office (also the offices for Mechanicsville, VA) and got some stats for you. Shed Permit Requirements for Hanover County (Mechanicsville, VA) Sheds or garages under 256 sq ft. do not require a building permit. Anytime an electrical package or heating system is added you a type of building permit is required. Zoning may require you to get a permit to make sure the building location is fine. Setbacks in Mechanicsville require that any new building must be installed at least 5’ from rear property lines or 3’ from side property lines with possible variations that depend on locale. Pergolas, Pavilions and Gazebos do not require a building permit if they are under 256 sq ft. When do I need a Building Permit If you are in doubt whether or not your building comes in under the 256 sq ft. size there is a simple mathematical formula to help out: multiply length x width of the building you are looking at buying and you will come up with the square footage of the structure. Most common building sizes such as 8 x 10, 12 x 20, and 14 x 18 come in under that threshold. If you’re going for a larger structure check this list to see what will be needed for a building permit. Building Permits for buildings over 256 sq ft. Get two plans of the building from manufacturer (salesman should be able to provide these). Fill out this building permit application. Prepare to pay fee of $99.25, and any applicable charges for especially large structures. Submit plans, application and fee to the Hanover County Building Inspection office. Contact information is phone #: (804) 365-6040, and location is at 7516 County Complex Rd, Hanover, VA 23069. When do I need a Zoning Permit Most of the available spaces in the east are crisscrossed with property, gas, water and electricity lines, so the answer is that you will probably need a zoning permit. Because this varies so much by address it is necessary to find out from the Zoning office what the permissions are for your property. Check out the list below for how to do that: Call the Zoning office to find out what the specific zoning is for your address at phone #: (804) 365-6171, or email planning@hanovercounty.gov. Keep in mind that setbacks in Mechanicsville are that the building must be 3’ from the line on the sides and 5’ from the rear of the property line. If the building will house any animals you may need special permissions. Tip from the Hanover office: remember that your community may have organizations that decide on colors, styles, and placements of buildings. Honorable mention: the building office pointed out to us that accessory structures are usually not allowed to be place in a front yard. Building and Zoning Permits for Pergolas, Pavilions and Gazebos The good news for outdoor living structure permits is that if you are buying a gazebo, pergola or pavilion you probably won’t need to buy a building permit. The only exception to this would be if the building is over 256 sq ft. or you are planning to use it for a commercial venue. Permits for pergolas, pavilions and gazebos Residential – any building under 256 sq. ft. does not require a permit. That’s it, and happy shopping to all you Mechanicsville VA/Hanover County folks!

The old saying, “Couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn” implies that barns must be easy to hit. But that’s not always the case, as contestants have recently discovered at the Cleburne Railroader’s home stadium, The Depot. We have a unique contest in cooperation with the Railroader’s baseball club. If you can hit the “broad side of a barn” with a baseball, you could get a $5000 storage shed from Ulrich. Gabrina Soliz, Manager of Relations and Events with the Railroaders, and one of her colleagues came up with the “broad side of barn” idea. Here’s how the contest works: At a Railroader’s home game, fans text “Barn” and are prompted to enter their first and last names. Between the top and bottom of the 6th inning, one lucky person gets a chance to hit a baseball toward the target. The target, in this case, is the front  of an Ulrich storage building, mounted on a trailer. The contestant gets three tries to hit the shed with the baseball. If she is successful, she is entered into a drawing. At the end of the season, contestants will have a hitting playoff. The winner will receive a new $5000 Ulrich storage building. The contest requires luck and skill. Luck, to be chosen; skill to actually hit the “side of the barn”. In early June, Ulrich employees and family members enjoyed watching a game from the party deck at The Depot stadium. Steven Lockwood, in our Internet Sales department, got the chance to swing at the ball. Unfortunately, the “side of the barn” remained unscathed, as Steven couldn’t get the baseball to connect with the barn. Amanda McClure, in our marketing department, said getting the heavy shed front stabilized on the trailer was quite a challenge. The work seems to be paying off, though. “Everybody loves the idea,” says Gabrina Soliz. The contest remains in effect for the season during select games, so come on out to a game and see whether you have the luck and the skill to win a new Ulrich storage shed! #GabrinaSoliz

With 14 acres of thick woods and hosting 7,000 kids per summer, Camp Thurman finds plenty of need for daily maintenance.  With their use of many of tools, lawn equipment, and ATV’s the camp saw the need for a few storage sheds.  Ulrich provided Camp Thurman with two storage sheds and a portable garage. There will always be lawns to mow, and trees to be trimmed to keep the camp clear and safe for the kids.  The first shed houses tools, they need to maintain all of the bridges, rock walls, picnic tables, and equipment on the property.  Counselor “Tarzan” is happy to swing to the rescue fixing anything that has broken around Camp. You will also see Manager “Buckwheat” driving through on his ATV checking in on staff and campers alike.  His vehicle and others are kept safe from the weather in their dual entry portable garage. What you may not see is the quiet oasis that Camp Thurman has set up secretly behind their sheds and offices.  A quiet place for Staff to relax, BBQ and enjoy each others company, after a long day, working with young campers.  The walls of their Ulrich Buildings provide security to the items inside, as well as a sanctuary of the space created outside their walls.

You wouldn’t imagine finding a wooded oasis in the middle of the city. However, that is just what our friends at Camp Thurman have created.  Located in Pantego, TX, is a summer camp for children of all ages teaching leadership and teamwork with a Christ Centered-set of values.  Hosting an average 7,000 students each summer, Camp Thurman had several needs for Storage that Ulrich was happy to meet. Camp Thurman has grown rapidly since opening in 1969, and this year added their largest pool project; The Sea of Galilee, and Nile River.  With a total of Three Pools, Water Slides, Water Fountains, and a Lazy River, there is certainly the need for a Pool House.  The camp has two in total;  one shed houses pool toys, life vests, and miscellaneous supplies; and the other hosts Pool Chemicals. The Shed containing Chemicals needed to be in a particular spot that proved difficult to maneuver.  However, our driver Tim Glick worked hard into the wee hours of the night to ensure that the building was set exactly the way they needed it. He also carefully blocked and leveled to ensure they would never have issues with the doors, so it can always be safely locked for the protection of the young campers

“That’s probably my favorite, is knowing that the Liney Moon is a part of a lot of people’s families, due to the memories they’re making there.” – Caroline Bradford The Liney Moon is a unique “hotel” tucked away in the Central Texas hill country near Dripping Springs. The idea for the venue was born when owners Caroline and Stephen Bradford got married. There were options for wedding venues around Dripping Springs, but they had trouble finding exciting lodging for their guests. So they decided to solve that problem for other couples by starting The Liney Moon. The Liney Moon began with the “Stellar House,” the main building with lodging, kitchen, and leisure amenities. With the Stellar House being booked every weekend, the Bradfords quickly looked at expanding their capacity. They decided to add ten Ulrich cottages in a horseshoe shape, a short walk up the hill from the Stellar House. The Stellar House is great for larger groups, and the Horseshoe Cottages are great for couples. But the Bradfords wanted to add an “in-between” option. Enter the Triplets. Caroline worked with Brian Wrinkle, Ulrich Cabin consultant, to design the Triplets. The Triplets have much of the same modern design ethic as the Cottages. However, instead of the steel siding, these three cabins feature a painted exterior. While they look small from the outside, they can comfortably sleep six, due to their unique bunk bed arrangement. Ulrich Cabins has been an important part of what Caroline and Stephen have been able to create. “I don’t think there’s another company out there like them,” says Caroline, “and could’ve done a better job, more efficiently than they did. With the addition of the Triplets, the Liney Moon can now host a group of 70 people. In addition to wedding parties and guests, the Liney Moon is also a great option for corporate off-sites. For corporate events, guests get the best of both worlds: they can enjoy their own private, comfortable cabin without needing to commute to a different location for the night. So go ahead and book your stay — enjoy the stars, and the Liney Moon! #TheLineyMoon