Tips When Building a Pergola

Pergolas are archways that give your backyard life and personality. In order to build one of these structures in a stress-free manner, there are plans you need to make first.

Permits

Before building one of these archways, you need to see if a permit is required. If you are part of a homeowner’s association, check with them or possibly with your local city building department. Typically, areas that get extreme weather will require a permit because the pergola needs to be sturdy and safe. You will also require permits depending on what you are doing to the pergola. If installing electric wiring, for instance, then you will definitely need one.

Contractors

If you don’t have any experience building these archways, it’s probably best to let a contractor oversee the project. Find one that is licensed and has prior experience with these types of work. These professionals, offering experience and resources, can do many things. They will inspect the area before the project starts. They’ll make sure there are not any sewer and electrical lines near the area, and any potential red flags are marked off appropriately.

Materials

Like with many projects, you need to think about the materials you want to use with the pergola. There are many great choices today, including redwood, cedar, and pressure treated pine. Wood is a popular choice because of its affordability and the natural beauty it brings to the area.

Building pergolas is more complex than just throwing materials together. It requires planning and sometimes even a professional touch to make them look great and structurally sound.