A Done with That® Project by Koper, America’s #1 Connected ContractorTM, Free Augmented Article©
A pergola in Michigan can be a dramatic addition to any yard.
Whether providing an element of privacy on top of an open patio or deck, shading and defining a path, or framing a view, a pergola adds charm while requiring only modest skill and expense to complete.
The word pergola is used almost interchangeably with arbor and bower to mean any of a variety of outdoor open-framed structures, whether attached to an existing building or freestanding. Pergolas were originally used to provide some shade on walkways, particularly when covered with vines or other climbing plants.
The use of heavy posts and beams permits wide openings along the sides and across the top ends of a pergola. Furthermore, The beams need to be large enough to span the wide openings while supporting the lighter weight rafters above. The rafters are spaced according to the amount of shade desired or to maintain a balance of proportions with the structural parts. A key feature is that the rafters overhang the beams; the ends are often angled or otherwise shaped.
Types of Wood to Use
Wood is the material of choice for a pergola, and care should be taken in its selection to ensure a pleasing appearance and long life. Insect- and rot-resistant varieties like redwood, cypress and cedar are appropriate if the pergola will be allowed to weather naturally. Pressure-treated construction lumber is also practical. Even an engineered composite wood such as Trex can be used. A painted finish provides a more formal look and more dramatic contrast in most yards. It also permits the selection of a broader variety of woods, thanks to the protection provided by the paint.
After selecting the site and deciding on what the pergola should look like, it is a good idea to check the local building codes to see hat requirements apply. There may be restrictions on overall size or proximity to property lines, as well as minimum dimensions for structural lumber. There will likely be requirements for size and depth of concrete footings, and there may be specifications for the size, type and number of fasteners that must be used. After adapting your design to local requirements, you should then obtain a building permit if needed.
In the pergola shown in many pictures, it consists of 6×6 posts support double 2×6 beams that carry 2×4 rafters. The posts are securely anchored in the ground with stirrup-shaped steel anchors that are embedded in concrete extending below the frost line. The tops of the posts are cut in a tenon shape to provide seats for the beams to rest on while allowing secure attachment to the post. The rafters, set on edge, are then secured to the beams with galvanized steel angle brackets.
Installing the Posts
- After marking the site with stakes and string, dig footing holes and pour concrete around post anchors.
- Cut posts to length, then use a I marking gauge to lay out and mark seat cuts for beams.
- Cut out seats. Work carefully to ensure square cuts, and use a
scrap piece of beam stock to check fit. - Paint the wood or apply preser tive, especially to the cut end. Set the first post in its anchor. back.
- Use a level to set the post plumb, both side to side and front to Use temporary braces if needed.
- Clamp the post firmly in the anchor, setting the clamp away from the bolt holes. Recheck plumb.
- Drill through the holes in the anchor, working from both sides if
needed, to bore through the post. - Insert bolts through the anchor and post, and tighten nuts Se curely with wrenches.
- Set the remaining posts the same way. Make sure their height and alignment are even with the first post
Installing the Beams and Rafters
- Measure, mark and cut the beams I to length. Use a try square to ensure a square, straight line.
- Clamp the beams securely to the post, setting the clamp away from nailing locations.
- Nail the beams to the posts, being careful to maintain solid footing if standing on a ladder.
- Measure and mark the rafter locations on the beams, making sure the rafters will be evenly spaced.
- Recheck plumb and alignment of post and beam assemblies to ensure accurate rafter placement.
- Cut rafters to length. Mark the locations of the angle brackets to fasten the rafters to the beams.
- Check marks by laying the rafter on the beams. Place the rafter on the ground to attach the brackets.
- Position the rafter at the spacing marks on the beams and nail the brackets in place.
- For added strength, nail at an angle through the sides of the rafters into the tops of the beams.
If your in Lake Orion, Clarkston, Oxford Oakland County, Michigan and would like a free quote please contact us at 248-701-9328, for the best rates in Clarkston, Lake Orion and Oxford.
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