How to Build a Pergola

A pergola can be the perfect complement to your patio. Take the appropriate steps to build a pergola and enhance your garden and plants. Get information on how to build a pergola using time tested methods.

The following materials are needed to build a pergola. You can get them in hardware or home improvement stores. Have all the materials by your side during the building process.

Required Tools and Materials

• PVC / sheet roofing
• Wood (to be used as posts)
• Concrete mix
• Metal braces
• Ledger plates
• Fascia boards
• Bolts
• Head screws (hexagonal type)
• Drill
• Silicone sealant
• Shovel
• Joist hangers
• Pencil and papers (for sketching)

Select the Area

The right area is something only you can decide. A good tip is to observe the entire surrounding. Factor in the plants, and how it will blend in with the garden and patio. Make sure you have a layout or sketch of your pergola.

Install the Wood Posts

Start by digging five holes for the posts. These need to be 14” x 14” and 20” deep. The holes must be spaced at least eight feet apart. To build a pergola, pour in a concrete mix in the hole. The mixture needs to be four inches deep.

Put the wood posts in place. If necessary, have someone help you set them up. Make certain the posts are balanced. Adjust them before the cement dries up. Concrete needs 2 to 3 days to dry. The total drying time may vary from product to product. Cut the posts at the required height.

Install the Beams

Carve an L shape at the top of each of the five posts. The L should be 8” deep. Use 2 x 8s for the beams. Use bolts to fasten them on the posts. Use as many washers and screws as necessary to keep it in place.

Create the Frame

Get the ledger plates and attach to the house’s eaves. To build a
pergola you must utilize screws to attach the plates. Apply some silicone sealant on the screws. Make sure the rafter measurements are correct.

For example, 96 in roof sheets will require rafters 91.25 in long. Slice the edge to get the slant you want. The space distribution should be 30 in.

Connect the angle rafters on the ledgers using the joist hangers. Use skew nails to connect the other end. Set down four rows of purlins by the corners of the rafters. The spacing must be four inches.

Now you can add the fascia board on the pergola’s ends. Add two more fascia boards along the sides. Use metal braces to frame the structure.

Connect the Roof

To build a pergola’s roof, saw the PVC as large as necessary. Drill holes in the sheet roofing (10 mm). Make it at least 2 mm bigger than the screws for expansion purposes. Set the holes at a high location. The hexagonal screws should be used to link the roof to the pergola. Connect the roofing per fourth corrugation.

Tips and Warnings

A wood with a hole can be a handy guide when drilling so it remains straight. Take care when you use the drill. You don’t want to make the holes too big. Also remember that the measurements used here may differ from what you’ll use.

You don’t need a high degree of carpentry skill to build a pergola. Just follow these simple guidelines and you’ll be able to finish this task without hiring a contractor.