If you are looking to spruce up your yard and get ready for those spring and summer cookouts, then hop on this summer’s hottest DIY project! Building a pergola or arbor is easier than you might think, and it adds a beautiful lattice roof to frame, accentuate, and shade wherever you plan on entertaining.
Below we will walk you through the simple step-by-step method to easily construct a pergola or arbor on your own!
What Is a Pergola?
A pergola is a yard feature that is made to shade and accentuate an area. They are made with four beams that support a type of roof made from cross beams. They are open and do not completely cover an area. Pergolas are used to frame a sitting space architecturally and can be used to grow vines, hanging plants, and grapes.
What Is an Arbor?
The words arbor and pergola can be used interchangeably to describe the lattice-roofed structure described above. Arbors are sometimes smaller and frame a walkway or yard entrance. They provide some shade, but they are mainly used for accentuating a walkway, sitting area, patio, or barbeque.
How to Build a Pergola or Arbor?
Believe it or not, building a pergola is not as hard as it might seem! These structures are relatively easy to construct and even easier to maintain. Follow these simple steps below if you want to create a beautiful structure for any section of your yard or patio. Before you begin, you will need a full toolbox and some basic building skills.
1) Pick Your Spot – Choose a spot for your arbor or pergola to stand. This can be over a patio where you have laid concrete or tile, or you can pour gravel or wood chips underneath to make a makeshift patio. Call your local utilities to make sure you won’t be digging up any buried lines in the process.
2) Get a Pergola or Arbor Design – Purchase or print a pergola blueprint and design that specifies exactly what you will need for the pergola you plan to build. There are hundreds of different pergola and arbor designs, so find one that fits your needs.
3) Obtain and Cut Woods – Obtain your desired wood according to the blueprint you are using. You will likely want to use more expensive, sturdier wood if you want your structure to last. Spending more on wood rather than getting something cheap will ensure that it withstands the weather. You will need to cut the wood to the necessary lengths with a circular saw.
4) Dig Holes – Measure the exact distance you will be staking the four outer posts and mark them with stakes and strings. You can set the columns in concrete for a more stable pergola or line the holes with gravel to allow for drainage and prevent wood columns from rotting.
5) Assemble the Top – Once your lumber is all cut to size and your columns are placed, you will want to assemble the lattice top. Secure the four main beams in place using angle brackets or screws, depending on your desired layout.
6) Attach Rafters – If you are designing a large pergola, attach ledger strips to the beams and place your rafters on the ledgers. Screw them each into the main beams. If you are designing a small arbor, you may just need to simply screw the rafters onto the top of the beams to create an overhang design.
7) Attach Lattice Beams – Once your rafters are secured in place, you can lay your lattice beams on top of them and space them evenly across the roof. The more you add, the more shade you will receive. Screw them into place.
8) Finally – you can paint or stain your arbor or pergola however you want. This can also be done at the beginning before you assemble the lumbar if you are building a large pergola rather than a small walkway arbor.
Conclusion
If you want to step up your spring and summer entertaining, adding an arbor or pergola to your patio or yard could make all the difference. With dappled light coming through, these partially shaded structures will help keep you cool while allowing you to enjoy the outdoor weather.
If you want an extra hand constructing your arbor or pergola, give us a call. Contact us at One Man & a Toolbox to see how we can help!