Building a pergola attached to your house can increase your home’s curb appeal and value. Learn how to build a pergola attached to your house with this step-by-step guide.
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Introduction
A pergola is a garden structure with a trelliswork roof that creates a shaded passageway, outdoor sitting area, or walkway. They are built from vertical posts and frequently includes an open lattice for climbing plants. A pergola attached to your house can serve multiple purposes. It can link different parts of your landscaping or it can serve as a covered outdoor living space. Building an attached pergola is a weekend project that will enhance both the function and beauty of your home.
Consider the following tips when planning to build a pergola attached to your house:
-The first step is to determine the location and size of your pergola. It’s important to take into account the size of your yard, the amount of sun exposure, and proximity to utilities when choosing the location.
-Once you’ve selected the location, mark out the perimeter with stakes and string. This will help you visualize the size of your pergola and make sure it’s in proportion to other features in your yard.
-Next, you’ll need to obtain a building permit from your local municipality. This is typically required for any type of construction that is attached to your house.
-Now it’s time to gather materials. For most attached pergolas, you’ll need lumber, joist hangers, lag bolts, post base hardware, wood screws, decking screws, washers, exterior grade glue, and concrete mix.
-The first step in construction is to attach the posts to the house ledger board using joist hangers and lag bolts . The ledger board should be made of pressure treated lumber and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions .
-After the ledger board is installed , you can attach the posts . It’s important that each post is plumb before attaching it permanently with post base hardware and wood screws .
-Once all four posts are installed , you can begin installing the rafters . The rafters should be made of pressure treated lumber that has been cut to size . Install them using exterior grade glue and decking screws .
-Once all rafters are in place , you can install either lattice or cross bracing between the rafters for extra stability . Cross bracing should be installed at an angle so that it forms an “X” between each pair of rafters .
-Finally , you can finish off your pergola by adding trim around all exposed edges . This will give your pergola a professional look and help protect against weather damage .
Materials
-8x8x16 pressure-treated posts
-2×6 joist lumber
-Gravel
-Coarse sand
-6×6 lumber for beams (we used two 12 foot lengths)
-1×4 lumber for purlins (these will be cut to size on site)
-1×2 lumber for brace members (these will be cut to size on site)
-Construction adhesive
-Nails or screws (we used 8 inch deck screws)
Stain or paint
Tools
Before you start, gather the following tools:
-Tape measure
-Level
-String line
-Circular saw or reciprocating saw
-Drill
-Cordless screwdriver or impact driver and bits
-Hammer
-Post hole digger or auger
-Shovel
-Ladder
You will also need the following supplies:
-[ ] 8’ 4×4 posts (pressure treated) – 2 pergola end and 2 pergola side
-[ ] 6×6 post base brackets (pressure treated) – 4
-[ ] 2×4 joists – cut to span from house beam to outermost post (pressure treated)
-[ ] Galvanized carriage bolts, washers, and nuts – 20 (1/2” diameter) (optional) OR Simpson Strong Tie T straps – 8 (OR similar hurricane tie down hardware for your area)
-[ ] Cedar lumber for rafters and trim – amount will depend on design OR rot resistant lumber of choice for rafters and trim ex. redwood, cypress, etc.
Steps
If you want to add a pergola to your home but don’t want to go through the hassle of obtaining a building permit, then attached pergolas are the way to go. Building an attached pergola is a straightforward project that anyone with basic carpentry skills can do. And since it’s not freestanding, you won’t have to worry about obtaining a permit. Just follow these Simple Steps and you’ll have your very own attached pergola in no time.
1. Start by measuring the area where you want to build your pergola. Then mark the location of the posts with stakes.
2. excavate the post holes and set the posts in concrete. Be sure to use posts that are Rated for ground contact use and that are at least 8 feet tall.
3. Attach the beams to the posts using joist hangers or post brackets.
4. Install purlins on top of the beams, running perpendicular to them. Space them evenly apart and secure them with screws or nails.
5. Add crossbeams, running them in the opposite direction of the purlins. Space them evenly as well and secure them with screws or nails.
6 . Finish off your pergola by adding lattice panels or slats on top of the crossbeams for shade .
Conclusion
To conclude, building a pergola attached to your house can be a great way to enhance your outdoor living space. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a structure that will last for years to come. Be sure to consult with local building codes and get any necessary permits before beginning your project. With a little elbow grease, you’ll be enjoying your new pergola in no time!