A standard pergola will most often use 6 x 6 inch posts for support. A very small pergola may use 4 x 4 inch posts as long as it has less than 4 to 6 feet between posts. As a general rule of thumb the depth of hole you use for your posts should be approximately 1/4 of the height of your post.
What is a good post depth for Pergola?
Pergola Post Information: Pergola Post Length
- Desired height above ground. ...
- Post installation method, whether you are installing either buried in a concrete footer, or installed on top of a concrete footer or existing concrete slab; and
- If installing buried in a concrete footer, then you will need to add the length of the post below the ground to the desired height of the posts.
How far apart should pergola posts be?
Subsequently, question is, how far apart should pergola posts be? Spacing the rafters 16 to 20 inches apart is common. The most important rule in spacing is to keep the distance consistent between all the rafters.
What is the best way to anchor a pergola?
Pergola Footings that Install with an Impact wrench & support 19,000 lbs
- Post set in hole on flat concrete footing. Back filled with soil or cement.
- Post set in hole with pyramid concrete footing. Back filled with soil or cement.
- Flat footing with concrete pier and concealed post base.
- Flat footing with concrete pier and common post base.
- Bell form footing with concrete pier and concealed post base.
How tall should a pergola be?
- Cut Tops of the Posts. After the concrete in the post holes has set, and the beams and rafters are cut, cut the tops of the posts to an even ...
- Install the Beams. Install the beams.
- Measure Rafters. Take time to measure the overhang of each rafter carefully to keep the whole set in alignment.
Should pergola posts be 4x4 or 6x6?
To adequately support the lumber overhead as well as give the pergola a sturdy look, you'll probably need to use 6×6 for the support posts. For a very small pergola with only 4 to 6 feet between posts, 4×4 supports will work.
What posts do I need for a pergola?
You will needwooden posts, 85mm x 85mm x 3m (3.3in x 3.3in x 9.8ft)wooden cross members, 33mm x 33mm x 1.8m (1.3in x 1.3in x 5.9ft)wooden beams, 45mm x 95mm x 3m (1.7in x 3.7in x 9.8ft)bolts to support the frame.stainless steel screws, countersunk.ballast and cement.
What size should pergola beams be?
As per thumb rule and general guidelines, it is recommended that for a 10′ span you will need at least 2″x6″ size of wood beam used for pergola, for a 12 foot span – 2×8 size timber, for a 14, 15 &16 foot span – 2×10 size timber and for 18 to 20 foot span you will need 2×12 size timber.
Can I use fence posts for pergola?
There are now 2 different options depending on where you are building your pergola. Adding fence posts into grass or mud! 2) Position your fence post footings in the correct position needed and push down into the soil as much as possible, ensure that he post is level from the top and both sides.
How deep should a pergola post hole be?
1. Mark Your Holes. Dig holes in the locations for the pergola's posts, making each hole at least 12 inches in diameter and the depth of one-third the height of one post. If, for example, each post is 12 feet tall, then make each hole 4 feet deep.
What size timber do you use for a pergola?
Softwood is the cheapest, and provided you buy pressure-treated timber and look after it, it will last well. For the uprights you will need at least 75mm x 75mm (3” x 3”) timber, and 100mm x 100mm (4” x 4”) is better if it is to be a sizeable structure.
How do I strengthen my pergola posts?
Some potential options:sink the front two posts into the ground several feet and surround with concrete (typically you'd want 1/3 of the post in the ground.add diagonal bracing. ... metal reinforcement. ... add a railing to that side of the deck and diagonal brace that (tensioned cables, wood panels, diagonal rails, etc.)More items...•
How far can a 4x4 span without sagging?
The initial sag or deflection will typically increase by as much as 50% over time, even with nothing other than gravity affecting it. By itself, with no load, a 4×4 will span 8 feet without noticeable sag.
What timber is best for pergola?
Western Red Cedar Western Red Cedar is one of the most popular timbers for a pergola. Naturally stunning, it has an irresistible reddish-brown colour — often with pink hues — slotting seamlessly into almost any outdoor project.
Can you use fence post spikes for pergola?
Bolt down fence post shoes and spikes are a quick and easy way to erect garden Pergola posts as they require no digging or concreting into place, saving time and money.
How high can you build a pergola without planning permission?
height must be no greater than 2.5m (8' 2"). Further away from the boundary it can be 3m (9' 10"). A pitched-roof structure (A-shaped roof) can be up to 4m high (13'). It mustn't cover more than half of the area of your land.
Is it cheaper to build your own pergola?
When homeowners ask us, “Is it cheaper to buy or build a pergola?”, we always tell them that it is cheapest to buy it from a kit. With just a basic set of tools, you can put together your brand-new pergola in an afternoon. The reason that it's cheaper to build a pergola rather than paying for installation is two-fold.
How big should a pergola post be?
The standard size is about 13 feet by 19 feet in total. This size typically refers to the size of the rafters that go along the top of the pergola. The posts are recommended to be about 1 foot and 6 inches in from the end of the rafters. This makes the post to post dimensions about 10 feet by 16 feet, which is about the size you will get to use.
How wide should a pergola be?
The diameter of the holes should be no less than 10 inches wide, with larger 6″ posts requiring 12″. Some pergolas are attached to an existing structure, meaning there will be less posts, and a lot of the weight is taken off due to the attachment to the home or outbuilding. The posts do still need to be weight bearing.
How long should a pergola rafter be?
Even the material can change the sizes of the rafters. Typically the rafters could be 2 inches by 6 inches, 2 inches by 8 inches, or 1.5 inches by 7.25 inches. The length of the rafters be as long as you desire the pergola itself to be.
How big is a standard pergola?
There are usually a few ways to put these together as well based on how you want the pergola to look in the long run. The standard size is about 13 feet by 19 feet in total.
What do you need to know when building a pergola?
Basically it is like building a room outside without any walls. This means you need to figure out the desired height, length and width.
Do pergolas need squares?
That gives a large range of options, especially since they do not even need to be squares if that is not the desired aesthetic. Additionally, just because these are the common sizes of a pergola does not mean you are unable to create something different. There are limitless custom options for specific spaces.
What is a large pergola?
Larger decks often include more luxury features like outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and built-in seating. Larger pergolas accommodate larger decks for both practical and stylistic reasons. Practically speaking, you’ll want to use your large deck for entertaining — you need an equally large pergola to keep your guests cool and sun-shaded. Stylistically, your dream deck is an extension of your home — you want it to look impressive. If you opt for an undersized pergola, it will stand out from the rest of your outdoor space. However, a striking and proportional vinyl pergola can be a fitting cap for your outdoor space.
Why are pergola dimensions important?
Why Pergola Sizes and Dimensions are Important for Planning. Almost any outdoor living space can be enhanced by the addition of a stunning vinyl pergola. Making sure that pergola is a good fit for the space is important, though. If your pergola is undersized for your needs, you’ll have trouble arranging your furniture in the pergola’s shade.
How many people can sit under a free standing pergola?
If you need space for no more than 6 people, a 12X16 pergola should work for you. However, if you think you’d like to accommodate seating for 12 people, we recommend a spacious 16X20 foot pergola.
Can a patio be a pergola?
Patios can vary in size nearly as much as decks — and the pergolas that best accompany them vary as well. Since small patios are a popular choice for pergolas, we’ll profile small patios in our pergola size guide.
Can you put a pergola on a deck?
A gorgeous vinyl pergola can add a luxurious flair to your deck or patio, while providing you with the practical shaded space you’ll love. If you prefer a free standing pergola, it can transform an empty yard into an eye-catching outdoor living space. Essentially, we say that whatever kind of pergola you choose will improve ...
Step 1. Plan Your Space
Choose the location and get an idea for the amount of space you would like to use for your pergola.
Determine Rafter Length (Attached Pergola)
The length of rafters (also referred to as “Depth”), will be calculated by measuring the distance you would like to have from the wall to the outside of the posts (for attached), plus the overhang.
Determine Rafter Length (Freestanding Pergola)
For a freestanding pergola, the difference is that the Rafter is not attached to a wall, so there is overhang on both sides. The length of rafters (also referred to as “Depth”), will be calculated by measuring the distance you would like to have between the outside of the posts, plus the overhang.
Step 3: Determine Beam Length
The length of beams (also referred to as “Width”), will be calculated by measuring your desired outside post to post width plus the overhang. Using a tape measure, pull your second measurement between the points where you’d like the outside edges of each post to land. This is Measurement B. Then, add the overhang on each end to that measurement.
Step 5. Determine Post Height
Once you’ve decided on the size pergola you’re ordering, you’ll choose the height of your posts. We offer posts with standard lengths of 8 feet, 10 feet and 12 feet, and can customize post lengths upon request. When trying to decide the length of pergola posts needed for your wood pergola kit, there are a few things to consider.
Need Help Finding the Correct Size Pergola?
If you need help measuring for your backyard pergola and determining the correct size and style pergola you need, complete our Contact Us Form, send us an email at info@pergoladepot.com, or call us and we’ll get back to you.
How many feet between pergola posts?
For a very small pergola with only 4 to 6 feet between posts, 4×4 supports will work.
What is a pergola made of?
Typically built of treated lumber, cedar or redwood, they are fairly simple structures in design, but you should keep some basic building practices in mind to ensure construction of a pergola lasts for years to come.
Why do Steve and Blakeney have a pergola?
That was Steve and Blakeney’s reason to add a new pergola to their back yard.
What is a tail on a pergola?
The tails impart the pergola with its signature elegant design, and can be cut to a curved scalloped profile or a more angular geometric design —or anything in between. The longest edge of the boards should always be positioned at the top, but aside from that rule of thumb, the pattern is completely up to you.
Can treated lumber be covered with a protective finish?
Treated lumber, however, should definitely be covered with a protective finish . The question then concerns when to treat lumber, and the answer lies with how wet the lumber is. The rafters are made of 2×10 on this project, one size smaller than the 2×12 girders.
Pergola Post Size
I wonder if three 4x4 (actually more like 3.5"x3.5") redwood posts will be enough to support the front (long) side of a 10'x20' attached pergola? The above-ground height will be 7.5', with 2.5' of the posts put in concrete in the ground. I wanted to use 4x6 or 6x6 posts, however I was unable to find those sizes around where I live.
Comments (8)
The posts will support a lot of weight. But I assume since it's 20' long that means one post on each end and one in the middle. That means a 10' span, and you will probably have sagging of the joists running across the tops of the posts, unless they are sized large enough.
Square Pergolas
Square pergolas work great for one side of a backyard patio, housing two chairs and a small table. Furthermore, a 10 x 10-foot pergola can be an easy install for the handy amateur. If dealing with a 16 x 16-foot pergola and over, you may want to leave this job to the professionals.
Rectangular Pergolas
Rectangular pergolas are yet another very popular option similar to square pergolas. They range in size from the standard 8 x 10 feet all the way to 18 x 24 feet and larger. However, the size of your backyard or outdoor area that needs the pergola will determine which shape works best.
Attached Pergolas
Attached pergolas are an outdoor extension of your home, creating additional living space and added enjoyment to your patio. This example is 78 inches long by 12 inches wide.
Pergola Post Size
Standard 10 x 10 foot or 12 x 12-foot pergolas typically used 6 x 6-inch posts for support. They are usually 9 to 11 feet in height, depending on the desired ceiling height. Always include extra length to help support the top and also to dig deeper into the ground for added stability.
Pergola Rafter Size
Rafter size is another thing to consider before deciding on your choice of a pergola. You must determine what you will use your pergola for and decide if you need minimal or maximum shade. When needing extensive shade, pergola covers may be the way to go beyond simply rafter size.
Pergola Ceiling Height
The typical ceiling height for most pergolas professionally installed or from a DIY kit is about 8 to10 feet tall. This is the standard height for most enclosed areas such as garages, sheds, and the like. With an attached pergola, ensure that the top beams align with the structure you are connecting it to.
Choosing the Right Size Pergola Cover
A pergola cover can be a great way to cover your patio. It doesn’t merely provide shade, but the right one adds another dimension of style and function to your existing pergola.
How long does it take to install a pergola footing?
The beauty of installing pergola footings this way is that you can literally have the footings and posts in place in as little as 30 to 45 minutes if your locations are already set. Best of all is you can start building the pergola right away.
How long does it take to dig a hole for a pergola?
Pergolas require a minimum of three and usually four or more footings. Digging three or four holes will take you at least two or three hours depending on the soil type.
What happens if you don't build a high point on a pier?
If you do not create a high point in the middle of the pier, there is a risk that water may continually pool on the concrete subjecting the hardware to frequent and prolonged wet conditions. Ideally, water should naturally flow away from the anchoring hardware on the pergola footings.
How to make a right angle triangle?
Using string and batter boards to layout a right angle triangle to get started. If you use the Rule of Thumb and make a 6' by 8' triangle with a 10' diagonal (hypotenuse) you will have a right angle to measure each footing location.
Can you build a pergola without digging?
Bet you thought it wasn't possible to build pergola footings without digging and setting the posts into the ground. Fortunately there are some excellent ways of installing footings for a pergola that are strong, stable and durable without the need to dig, mix and pour cement. Posts for this pergola pass through the deck and are supported by ...