Place the top beams on the posts you’ve installed. Step 2 - Attaching the Support Beams & Crossbeams

Mix and pour cement, then allow it to dry.įor those interested in how to build a pergola on a concrete patio, it’s possible to skip this step, and instead use post anchors drilled into concrete or decking with lag bolts and decking screws. Ensure each post is level before attaching a 2” x 4” brace to keep them in position. In most cases, that means 24” holes with a width of 9”.Īdd 2” of gravel to the bottom of each hole to allow for drainage. The depth of the holes should match regional building codes pertaining to the frost line. Use an auger to dig two post holes per row, each hole 8’ apart. The easiest way to build a freestanding pergola is to start with post holes. In this instance, we’ll cover the easier DIY project of building an unattached pergola that can be built around a concrete patio or as a freestanding structure in your backyard. However, you would only need minor modifications to alter it to better suit your unique circumstances. Learning how to build a pergola attached to the house or on your deck is a little different from learning how to build a pergola that sits on the ground in your backyard. The first thing you’ll need to do is determine the placement of the pergola. Browse through our collection of pergola ideas and designs for inspiration! Building A Pergola: Step-By-Step As for the type, pressure-treated lumber is a cost-effective choice for building a pergola, but there are many alternatives that make sense, such as composite. Precisely how much lumber you’ll need will depend on the space you want to fill. To get started building a pergola, you’ll need several tools and materials, including: Learning how to make a pergola isn’t difficult. It takes some preparation to build your own DIY pergola, but it’s nothing that an amateur can’t handle. With many different possible designs, pergolas can be used to define a passageway, add a focal point, cover a walkway, provide shade, or otherwise enhance an area.

Helping to shape an outdoor space, a pergola can generate a distinctive environment which simultaneously gives the feel of the indoors meeting the outdoors.

Pergola design tool