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Wooden pergola on a deck

Updated on July 11, 2024

Do it yourself

How to Build an Easy Wood Pergola

Building a wooden pergola is a simple and affordable way to spruce up any outdoor living space. Plus, it’s easier than you think! Read on for our step-by-step guide and list of materials and tools needed to build a pergola similar to the one seen on the reality TV series Le grand chantier RONA.

Difficulty level: Pro
Duration: 3-4 hours
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Before You Start
The pergola is approximately 12’ wide, 8’ long, and 8’ high. However, the steps remain the same regardless of the dimensions you choose! Just make sure you buy enough wood for the size you want. You’ll also need at least 2 people to assemble the structure, as well as a ladder or stepladder.

Why Build a Pergola?

There’s nothing like adding a pergola to enhance the comfort of a backyard or deck. In addition to acting as a barrier against the sun and wind, this simple, minimalist structure offers comfort and privacy. What’s more, it can be endlessly customized with railings, hanging lights, solar shades, wood slats, trellis, and more.

Use a Pergola Hardware Kit

Various pergola kits are available, and various brand offer pergola hardware. Just be sure to read the instructions and choose your screws and other necessary hardware accordingly.
Person installing a metal base on pavers

1
Install the Bases

  • 1.1Determine the location of the bases using a tape measure then mark the holes with a pencil.
  • 1.2Check measurements and make sure everything is square before proceeding.
  • 1.3

    Make sure to choose the right procedure to ensure that the bases are securely fixed in place:

    • Wood or composite: Use nuts and bolts or lag screws.
    • Patio stones or concrete platform: Pre-drill holes using a concrete drill bit, then secure the post bases in place using concrete screws. Make sure to drill the holes at least 4” from the edge of the patio stones to avoid cracking them.
    • Grass: Drive stakes into the ground.
Person checking the level of pergola basesPerson securing wooden pergola uprights

2
Add the Uprights

  • 2.1Check for level differences between the bases using a 4x4 and a 4’ level. If the bases are not the same height, measure the difference and cut the highest 8’ 4x4 as needed with a mitre saw or circular saw.
  • 2.2Secure an 8’ 4x4 into each base.
  • 2.3Use a level to make sure that each beam is straight before securing it in place.
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Pro Tip

It may be practical to install temporary angled legs on the various uprights to keep them level. Note, however, that this will leave screw holes in the uprights.

Person assembling the roof of a wood pergolaPerson assembling the roof of a wood pergola

3
Assemble and Install the Roof

  • 3.1Measure the distance between the outside of the two uprights on the longest sides and transfer this measurement to the 12' 4x4s.
  • 3.2Cut the 12' 4x4s to size.
  • 3.3Pre-drill then install the cut 4x4s by securing them using treated wood screws (from the top).
  • 3.4Measure the distance between the inside of the two uprights on the remaining sides, then transfer this measurement to the 8' 4x4s and cut to size.
  • 3.5Pre-drill then install the two cut 8’ 4x4s by securing them using treated wood screws (from the side).
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Pro Tip

To prevent the screws from colliding and avoid the need to drill to new holes, the top screws should be placed at the widest possible angle, and the side screws should be placed more centrally, one on top of the other.

Person adding corner brackets to a pergola

4
Add the Corner Brackets

Pre-drill then add a corner plate at each corner to reinforce the roof structure.
Wood pergola with privacy shades

Customize the Pergola

Why we love this type of pergola? There are many ways to personalize and enhance it to suit your tastes and needs: solar shades, privacy slats, roof slats, trellis, railings, outdoor lighting, shelves, flower or vegetable pots, and more. The possibilities are virtually limitless!

Disclaimer

These DIY projects are provided for informational purposes only. The information contained in RONA’s DIYs is intended to provide general guidelines to simplify jobs around the house. Because tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes, and local regulations are continually changing, RONA inc. assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein and disclaims any liability for the omissions, errors, or outcome of any project. RONA inc. makes no representation on the feasibility of any project and the viewer bears all risks coming with the realization of the projects. It is the responsibility of the viewer to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes, and regulations for a project. The viewer must always take proper safety precautions and exercise caution when taking on any project. If there is any doubt in regard to any element of a project, please consult a licensed professional. 

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