Gravel
lag bolts
4″ x 4″ pressure-treated posts
2″ x 4″ pressure-treated boards
2″ x 6″ pressure-treated boards
2″ x 10″ pressure-treated boards
galvanized deck screws
circular saw
level
shovel
wheelbarrow
socket set
screwdriver
drill
hammer
spade
post hole digger
ladder
jigsaw
1. Select the site for the pergola and mark the placement of the four posts. Use a post-hole digger or two-person auger to dig holes to a depth of 24″ and width of 9″. Add a few inches of gravel to the bottom of the holes for drainage. Insert 4″ x 4″ posts in holes. Ensure the posts are level and plumb. Attach temporary 2″ x 4″ bracing to hold in place. Mix fast-drying cement according to the manufacturer’s directions and pour into holes. Let cure for 24 hours.
2. Cut joist beams from 2″ x 10″ boards to span the pergola posts. To create a decorative look on the end of the joist beams, draw a straight or curved design on the wood and cut along the line with a jigsaw. Temporarily clamp in place while holes are drilled through the beams and posts. Attach the beams to the posts using 3″ lag bolts.
3. Cut the stringers from 2″ x 6″ boards to span and overhang the joist beams. To create a decorative look on the end of the stringers, draw a straight or curved design on the wood and cut along the line with a jigsaw. Evenly space the stringers perpendicular to the beams and toenail in place using 3″ galvanized deck screws.
