How to Build a Pergola

Building a pergola is the perfect solution for adding a new dimension to your garden. On top of being a stand-out feature of your outdoor space, they give you the ideal spot for outdoor entertaining. Whether it is an alfresco dining area or a space for lounging and relaxing, a garden structure offers plenty of possibilities. They come in a plethora of styles to suit any aesthetic and can be made to any size so that they are tailored to your space.

If you are wondering how to build a pergola, we are here to help. You might be looking into how to build a lean-to pergola, or perhaps you want to know how to build a pergola attached to the house. This article and our accompanying how-to video focus on how to build a wooden pergola from scratch. Our DIY pergola building instructions will walk you through the process of creating a standard square or rectangular freestanding design.

This job requires two people at times, so make sure you have someone on hand to help you when required.

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TOOLS

MATERIALS

SHOP

To build a freestanding pergola, secure four upright posts to a flat surface using metal post bases, then attach four mitred ring beams to form the main structure.
The essential tools for DIY pergola construction include a drill driver, hand saw, hex screwdriver, tape measure, speed square, spirit level, and a mallet.
You can finish your garden structure by building a roof with decorative joists, fitting a retractable canopy, or planting climbing plants up a trellis for natural colour.

Before you start cutting timber, you need to gather the right equipment. The essential tools for DIY pergola construction include:

You will also need proper safety gear and a solid workbench.

Choosing the best timber to build a pergola is an important first step. You need sturdy, treated wood that can withstand the elements. You will also need the right fixings, including wall bolts, fixing screws, and specific brackets and connectors for building a pergola.

Step-by-step pergola building instructions

Firstly, ensure you have a level, flat surface to work on. Make sure existing decking or block paving is in good condition and safe to build upon. Once you’ve decided on how big you want your pergola, start by preparing the timber for your four ring beams that go on top of the upright posts. To do this, start by mitring each end. Use a speed square to mark your angled cutting lines.

Then use your saw to make your mitred cuts.

Now you can pop the corner brackets onto both ends of each beam. You might need to use a mallet to help slide it into place. Then secure it with one fixing screw for now. The rest will go in later.

The next thing you’ll need to do is measure, mark and cut your four upright posts to your desired length. This will determine the height of your structure.

You can install a pergola on most bases - we’re installing ours on a ceramic tiled patio. There are usually four post bases that need to be fitted to the floor. Place your first one in your desired location and fix it into place to give yourself a starting point.

Then measure out the distance between your four corners and mark out the screw holes for each base bracket.

Make sure to measure across the gap diagonally to make sure that it’s squared up.

Once you have all four post base locations marked out, you can screw them into the ground.

Once they’re fixed, you can insert each upright post into place. Use one screw for now to hold them in - the remaining screws can go in later.

You can now lower the front and back beam into place on top of the posts.

Then insert your side beams. To do this, you might need to pull the posts apart slightly. Make sure the mitre joints on either end are properly aligned. You can use a mallet to make sure the brackets are securely attached.

It’s also worth checking that they’re level, so you can make any adjustments before you fix them with screws. Once you’re happy, screw them into place.

Now that you’ve got the pergola built, insert any remaining screws where they’re still needed to make sure that everything is fixed and secured.

How to build a roof on a pergola

The foundation of your build is now set. Now the fun can really begin. We went for some decorative roof joists and corner braces.

You can use a mitre saw to create elegant, curved ends to the roof joists. Once you have them prepared, drill a pilot hole at both ends of each one so that it is positioned centrally with equal overhang on both sides.

Then place them in position, using an offcut of wood as a spacer so that they’re spaced out consistently. Then screw them into position.

Then screw in your corner braces and you’re all done.

Finishing touches and weatherproofing

It is time to add some finishing touches, and there are loads of directions you can take it.

It is time to add some finishing touches, and there are loads of directions you can take it. Weatherproofing and sealing a newly built pergola is a smart way to protect the timber and keep it looking great for years to come.

For smaller gardens, we have plenty of pergola designs for small outdoor spaces. You can install a trellis and have climbing plants for a pop of natural colour.

Adding shade sails or retractable canopies to a pergola is a great way to shade yourself from the sun during the summer.

Your new garden feature is ready for all your outdoor entertaining. We hope this guide has inspired you to get started on your own garden masterpiece.

FAQs

In most cases, you do not need planning permission for a standard garden structure. But pergola building regulations for the UK state that if the structure is within two metres of your property boundary, its maximum height cannot exceed 2.5 metres. Always check with your local planning authority before starting.

A corner pergola is designed to fit right into the edge of your garden. You will use similar tools and techniques, but you might only require three upright posts and specific corner brackets to suit the triangular or L-shaped space.

You can, but it requires adjusting your timber. You need to ensure the footing and foundation requirements for pergolas are met by creating level footings first, or by cutting your upright posts to different lengths to accommodate the slope of the ground.

If you want to avoid concrete, there are several options. You can use heavy-duty metal post anchors that bolt directly to decking or patio surfaces, or ground spikes for soft soil. Timber blocks or paving slabs can also provide extra support. Always ensure your posts are stable and upright before building the rest of your structure.