Ideas for Your Backyard Living Space

measuring standard pergola dimensions

How to Measure Pergola Dimensions

Ready to take the big leap and add a backyard pergola to complete your patio design? First step - you'll want to measure your space so you know the best size pergola for your outdoor living setup. Here are a few steps that'll walk you through how to measure and find the pergola dimensions and size to fit your space. We've outlined how to measure for a pergola attached to a wall or a freestanding pergola. For our pergola kits, standard pergola dimensions range from 8x8 to 20x20. Once you take your measurements, you'll know if a standard size will work, or if you'll need to request a custom pergola size. Planning Your Pergola Space One of the first considerations is how much useable...

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pergola installation

Nine Site Preparation Tips for a Successful Pergola Installation

A pergola adds beauty and a sense of intimacy to any outdoor space. But there are crucial steps you need to take before your pergola installation to ensure the success of your project. This article will provide site preparation advice, yard prep suggestions and other tips to help you get ready for your pergola installation. As you learn how to properly install your pergola, you'll want to follow these steps: Select Your Material Check Local Building Requirements Review HOA Regulations Choose Your Pergola Installation Site With Care Investigate Impediments Look Out for Landscaping Inspect Site Lines Call 811 Consider Hiring a Pergola Installation Professional   Why Build an Outdoor Structure? People choose to build an outdoor structure like a custom-built pergola for many reasons. Wood pergola designs can: Offer shade Extend a home's livable space Create an outdoor living area Add a focal point to...

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Rough Sawn Cedar Pergola Wood

Best Wood for Pergolas

This easy to follow wood pergola guide offers a brief overview of two of the most popular wood types for pergolas. What are the most important factors when choosing pergola wood? We've found that durability, sustainability, and easy of installation are 3 of the top features that homeowners are looking for when shopping for a wood pergola. Two classic choices of wood for pergola kits that offer those features and more are #1 pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine and Western Red Rough Sawn Tight Knot Cedar. Both are excellent choices for a sturdy pergola that will last for many years. These wood types offer strength and durability that look good in many types of settings from rustic to traditional. Which type do you prefer? We’ll compare...

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DIY Pergola Kit Assembly Post Installation - Big Kahuna

How to Build a Pergola Step by Step

If you've been searching through pages of DIY sites on how to build a pergola, you already know that there many ways to achieve a beautiful backyard dream pergola! Sometimes it's difficult to choose from the countless options out there. As you're wading through detailed how-to plans and assembly instructions, we'd like to offer another option. Have you ever considered taking a hybrid approach to create the ultimate wooden structure for your backyard? Let me introduce you to the game-changer: pre-cut pergola kits. With our pine and cedar pergola kits, you get the best of both worlds, no guesswork involved. We take care of all the time-consuming cutting and drilling, ensuring you have the right materials. Your job will be to measure your space, unload the kit when it...

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Solid Roof Patio Covers Planning

Transform Your Outdoor Space: The Ultimate Guide to Solid Roof Patio Covers

Creating a solid roof patio cover is a great way to enhance your outdoor living space, offering comfort, style, and year-round usability. Whether you're looking for shade, better aesthetics, or a functional extension of your home, planning each step carefully will help ensure a successful outcome. This checklist is designed to guide you through the entire process—from outlining your goals and choosing materials to installation and finishing touches—so you can confidently transform your outdoor area. Benefits of Installing a Solid Roof Patio Cover Installing a solid roof patio cover can transform your outdoor space into a versatile environment that serves multiple purposes. The top 7 reasons for installing solid roof patio covers: Patio covers provide protection from weather (sun, rain, wind, and snow) - One of the most significant advantages to gazebo...

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Stained Wood Attached Pergola

Full Guide on Pergola Staining & Sealing

When is the best time for staining and sealing wood on outdoor structures? In warm climates, winter and early Spring are the perfect time of year to take care of outdoor tasks, like staining and sealing wood. In cooler climates it's best to wait until the temperatures warm up before getting out your brushes and other supplies for staining outdoor wood structures such as pergolas. If you're gearing up for adding a fresh coat of sealant or stain to your backyard wood structure, this article will answer questions such as: Why is staining and sealing wood important? When should you stain or seal a wood pergola? What types of products are best for staining and sealing wood? What are the steps for staining and sealing a wood pergola? Which colors look best on a pergola? Before...

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A pergola lit up at night

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Pergola?

Are you planning to install a pergola in your outdoor space? Normally one of the first questions people ask is, "Do I need a permit for a pergola?" Often a pergola does not require a building permit, but exceptions exist in various locations throughout the contiguous United States. Installing a wood pergola is similar to other outdoor home improvement projects, so it's highly recommended to investigate the regulatory requirements in your area as part of your initial outdoor project planning phase. Do not wonder, "do I need a building permit for a pergola?" — find out for sure before you make a purchase to avoid headaches and additional costs later. While exploring common requirements, Pergola Depot cannot offer legal advice. Every locality has different ordinances, so customers must make sure their...

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custom cedar BK with flowering plants

Easy and Low-Maintenance Patio Plants to Grow Under and Around Your Pergola

You've just installed a Pergola Depot pergola — congratulations! Or perhaps you're still planning out your perfect custom pergola or looking to perk up an existing structure. In any case, you'll be looking for some low-maintenance patio plants to enhance the look and feel of your outdoor living area. Whether you want glossy, heart-shaped foliage, climbing vines or colorful flowers, we have you covered with ideas for pergola plants that do well in full sun or partial shade. Read on for recommendations on the best pergola hanging plants and climbing plants for pots. Enjoy the blooms of each season and consider choosing some that are evergreen for a year-round display of beautiful greenery.   Pergola Planters for Every Need Pergola planters are an excellent choice when you want to soften the look...

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7 DIY Outdoor Patio Cover Ideas For Various Space & Shade Needs

Transform your patio into a protected area where you can unwind and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. With our all-season DIY patio covers, you can easily add shade to your deck or backyard. Our pergolas come in various sizes and can even be equipped with a retractable canopy for ultimate flexibility. We even have a roofed pergola that is offered with optional metal roofing for maximum shade and beauty in your backyard! Whether freestanding or attached, our quality-built structures will enhance your outdoor space and provide year-round enjoyment! Achieve Maximum Shade with our DIY Patio Cover Kits Say goodbye to sweltering summer days and hello to cool comfort with our Big Kahuna pergola kit. Designed to provide ample shade, this is the perfect solution for protecting yourself and your loved...

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Cost to Build Pergola

Cost to Build a Pergola: A Guide Covering Materials, Labor, and Budgeting

Pergolas are a timeless addition to any outdoor space, providing both shade and structure to your garden or backyard. Whether you're looking to create a cozy nook for relaxation or a stylish spot for outdoor entertaining, pergolas can offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, before you jump into the project, it’s important to understand what it will cost to build a pergola. This guide will help you navigate factors that impact the total cost, from materials and labor to permits and ongoing maintenance. Whether you're a homeowner, property developer, or contractor, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to budget for a pergola, compare DIY vs. professional installation, and make informed decisions for your project. What Impacts the Cost of Building a Pergola? When you're...

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