How To Build A Pergola – Step By Step Instructions
So you’re looking to learn how to build a pergola? Well, let me give you a little background on them before we go through step by step in creating one. Pergolas were originally popular during the Italian Renaissance, and have been a huge hit ever since. The only unfortunate part is that they aren’t really designed to maintain the harsh weather, and often don’t hold up very well in the rain or snow.
>> Download In Depth Instructions For Building A Pergola
But I’m sure you’ve done your research enough to know that already, so let’s talk more about why exact you want to build a pergola.
A pergola is something decorative for a garden setting, and you want the sun to be let in. Though it lacks walls, the pergola still defines a space, and defined space is at the core of architecture. And although the pergola is mostly about beauty, it does have the practical value of being an excellent way of hanging vines and letting them grow, such as if you’re growing grapes.
So, whatever you would like one for, let’s look at how to build a pergola. Understanding how to build a pergola is actually not as difficult as you may imagine.
How To Build A Pergola – Step By Step
- First, select the pergola site, and then mark off the four post placements. With either a post-hole digger or a two-man auger to dig the post holes. They need to be two feet deep and 9 inches wide. Throw about a four-inch-tall pile of gravel into the bottom of the holes to allow for water drainage.
=> You Can Access In Depth How To Build A Pergola Instructions By Clicking Here
Or
Learn a few more tips about building a pergola here.
- Place four-by-four posts into the holes, making sure that they stand level and plumb. Use temporary two-by-four braces to hold the posts in place.
- Mix fast-drying cement by following the instructions on the bag. Pour it into the holes and let it cure for 24 hours.
- Cut joist beams out of two-by-ten boards. These will be spanning the posts. For ornamentation, draw a design on the ends of the joists and use a jigsaw to carve out the design. Clamp them in place and then drill holes through the beams and posts. Using three-inch lag bolts, attach the beams to the posts.
- Cut stringers out of two-by-six boards for spanning and overhanding the joist beams. For ornamentation, on the ends of the stringers draw designs and carve them out with a jigsaw. Space the stringers evenly, making them perpendicular to the beams and toenail them into place with three-inch galvanized deck screws.
How To Build A Pergola
You see? It’s simplicity itself. Knowing how to build a pergola allows you to make a more beautiful, romantic garden or back yard. Furthermore, it could help you with growing grapes, tomatoes, strawberries, roses, or other plants and flowers.
