How to Build A DIY Pergola

Last updated on September 23rd, 2019 at 11:51 pm

 

 

If you ask me, I think your yard says a whole lot about you! Help it say the right things with a gorgeous DIY pergola! Don’t spend a fortune on having a pergola installed, just use my simple guide to build your own. Here’s how to build your own DIY pergola:

Here’s what you’ll need to begin:

–measuring tape

–circular saw

-saber saw

-8′ 2×4 pretreated boards

–ready to use concrete

–construction adhesive

-5′ galvanized drive screws

Step One: Dig the post holes! Prior to beginning, you will need to call your local authorities to determine if this is going to run into any water, power, or gas lines. It’s always better to be safe. If you plan on using a standard 4×4 post, your post holes should be 12 inches square. The hole should be about a forth of the height of your posts.

Step Two: Once the holes are dug, make sure that you properly set your posts. Use a brace system to ensure that the posts are completely straight and pour concrete into the holes. Leave the brace system in place until the concrete mixture is completely dry (usually about 48 hours). Wait until the concrete has fully dried before attaching anything.

Step Three: While you are waiting for the concrete to harden you can begin to build the support beam structure to hold the rafters overhead! Notice how there are two support beams about 7 1/2 feet above the ground, supporting the ends of the posts (an outer and an inner beam). These two posts will make sure that your pergola is completely strong, and it gives something for the rafters to hold on to. Cut the beams to 45 degrees for the cool decorative touch. Attach with small screws temporarily.

Step Four: Now it’s time to lay out the rafters! Lay out the rafters at one-foot intervals across the entire length of your pergola. Attach the rafters to the support beams with your 5 inch galvanized steel screws. They should be securely attached on each end of the pergola. If everything looks perfectly even, you can permanently attach the support beams with bolts.

Step Six: Enjoy your DIY pergola! It only cost about $100 to make, and you did all of the labor yourself; saving you a fortune.