Building a pergola will be most helpful if you have climbing plants in the garden. Use the following guide to help you construct one properly.
Required Tools and Materials
Tape measure
Cement
Braces
Wood
Framing square
Screws (3”)
Nails
Hammer
Shovel
Rake
Clamps
Nail gun
Prepare the Site
The climbing plants’ location will determine where the pergola will be. Prepare the site by clearing out the rocks and other materials around the building site. Don’t forget the structure can be used to beautify the garden too.
Use the tape measure / square to determine its size. Take the measurements with you when you get the supplies. The people in the store will be able to tell you how much wood is needed.
Laying Down the Base
Start building a pergola by digging at the site. Toss in the cement mix. Give it at least 48 hours to dry. When it’s dry, cut the lumber and make them into posts. Set the posts in place. Mark the spot on the post where you’ll put the screws. Hammer the nails and put some braces on the posts.
Create the Frames and Beams
Cut the beams to the desired length. Make indentations using the saw. Add the clamps and align them. Put each one in place with the screws. Next, cut the ceiling frames. Ensure the measurements are correct when you make the rafters. Always double check your measurements. This is necessary so the structure doesn’t collapse.
As you continue building a pergola, check the bolts and screws are properly set up. When the beams are set, make the roof using the remaining lumber. The design is up to you. Apply the nails and screws.
Finishing Touches
When the building process is done, you can paint it. The usual color is grey. However you can use white or any other color. For best results, use a color scheme that matches your garden style.
Tips and Warnings
Put on a mask when painting. This will keep you from inhaling any potentially harmful chemicals. Only a couple of layers will be necessary. When building a pergola, putting the posts in at least a foot deep is recommended. This ensures the posts will have a strong foundation. Any type of wood will do, but most builders prefer cider.
Your pergola doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s. Look over some designs and make them your own. At the same time, don’t lose sight of its primary function which is to support plants.
There is no standard or correct pergola size. It depends on how big
the structure needs to be. For new builders, you can try spacing the supporting posts by eight feet.
Planning cannot be emphasized too much here; make sure the pergola you make is big enough for the plants that are in the garden. If you plan it right, building will be easier.
The steps for building a pergola as described here, if followed, will allow you to create a working pergola. When it’s done, you can start rearranging the plants.
