If one feels that there is something missing in the empty backyard or something is needed to add to the landscape of the garden, then it is interesting to learn to build a pergola and one can even start building it in the compound. A pergola is a sort of a garden feature that forms a shaded walk or passage of pillars meant for supporting the cross beams and a strong open web on which the woody plant are trained. It can also be an extension of a building for protecting an open terrace or link between pavilions. It is a nice and cozy place for having an afternoon tea, it also provides a shade for the hanging plants. It is not too much expensive to build and the garden gets a beautiful look with a brand new pergola.

First, the design and location of the pergola have to be conceptualized. An estimate size of the pergola has to be calculated and the required materials and tools for the project have to be listed down. The materials needed for the project have to be specified and purchased after consulting a professional. It there is a requirement of any legal permits for the construction

then they would have to be obtained before starting the project.

Before starting the project, it has to be made sure that the ground is leveled. Four holes of two feet deep and nine inches wide have to be dug and the pressure treated posts have to be placed in the holes. The posts have to be fixed between the four main posts in order to hold them in place when pouring cement. The cement should be given time at least a day to set before proceeding to the next step. A help of few friends can be gained as someone will be needed for holding the posts in place when nailing them together and another has to prepare the cement mixture. Pressure pre-treated lumber has to be used as the posts so that the pergola will be stable and will last for a long time.

Now, move to the beams the desired lengths have to be cut out and indents have to be made using the saw. For ensuring that the beams are same, a template of beam has to be cut out with indents and the templates can be used for cutting the rest of the beams. Four pieces of support beams have to be cut out. The ends of the beams and support beams may also be shaped. Now, the support beams can be attached together for forming a frame and the beams have to be clamped in place by attaching the indents with the frame. Then, the beams can be secured with three inch screws and it has to be made sure that they have been examined.

The rafters can be now slid across the four pillar posts and it can be now secured with bolts and screws. Water and stain steal can be applied to the wood or it can be even painted if desired. This is the basic procedure to build a pergola. The pergola can be decorated with hanging flower pots or with a set of chairs or outdoor dining table.

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Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/steps-to-building-a-pergola-2002572.html