DIY Network

Build a Better Backyard: How to Build a Pergola A pergola generates a gentle shade during the day . . . add decorative lightning for the night to be enjoyed all day long. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-113

Before building the brick patio, Jason digs holes and pours concrete for the pergola posts. He plans ahead and runs electrical wire up the posts for creative outdoor lighting. With gentle shade in the day and decorative lighting at night, this pergola feels more like a living room than a backyard; a major equity boost, especially if it can be enjoyed year-round.

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Materials:

Bobcat
tape measure
spray paint
landscaping flags
concrete
shovel
stakes
plumb level
2x10s (support beams)
2x6s (shade members)
4x4s (posts)
clamps
Skill saw
power drill
carriage bolts
washers and nuts
wood stain

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Safety Alerts:

• Always wear safety glasses when working with power tools.

• Before you dig, call 811. The Common Ground Alliance has set up a national public service number, 811, connecting you with your local utilities marking organization. Make the call two days before starting an outdoor project.

How To Build a Pergola:

• After excavation, Jason digs four holes, 2 feet deep and 9 inches across, pours concrete into the holes and sets the 4x4 posts in (figure A) and waits for the concrete to set and then begins the patio pergola project.

• After the patio is done, Jason and Adam install two 2x10s one on either side of the post. He clamps the 2x10s in place, drills two holes through the 2x10s and the beams, and sinks carriage bolts (figure B) through the holes securing with washers and a nut.

• When the support beams are in place, Amy helps set the shade members across the patio. They toenail (a nail driven obliquely) the shade members in with screws.

• Jason measures the overhang of the shade member (figure C). With a skill saw, Kim cuts the beam to length.

• Jason marks a decorative angle in the beams (figure D) and cuts the beams at that angle.

• When the sides of the pergola are cut, Jason wires the pergola, the pond and the whole yard with decorative lighting (figure E), so Kim’s backyard is enjoyable anytime of day.

RESOURCES :
Common Ground Alliance
Call Before You Dig "Call 811"
Toll-free: 811
Website: www.call811.com/default.aspx

Kichler Lighting
Website: www.kichler.com

GUESTS :
Jason Yocum, ASLA
Landscape Architect
SunStone Design LLC
Denver, CO
Phone: 720-273-8488
E-mail: sunstonedesign@att.net