How to Build a Pergola – Video Instruction

Building a pergola can be an relatively simple weekend project. Check out the instructional video below.

If you are interested on knowing what it takes to build a pergola in your backyard, then this 8-minute video will give you just that. Pergolas are great for adding visual appeal to your property, while providing shade during those hot summer months.

This video gives concise visual instructions on how easy it can be to build a pergola. The guy is speaking with a bit of an English accent (he’s from New Zealand), so there may be words that are difficult to understand at first. Luckily, there are words that pop up during the video so you can read what he is saying.

Here are few notables from the video…

Compliance: You’ll want to contact your local agencies

• Check your local zoning regulations
• Check to see if you need a permit
• Make sure there are no sewer or electrical lines beneath the ground area

What you’ll need (not an exhaustive list)

• hammer
• nails
• level
• spray can
• concrete
• wood
• ruler
• pencil
• ladder
• handsaw
• electric saw
• tape measure

Wood types mentioned

• 4 posts
• 2 bearers
• 8 rafters
• battens

Here are the steps outlined in the video

1. Mark out where post holes will go
2. Build profiles for stringlines
3. Dig the post holes
4. Put in posts and brace
5. Pour concrete into post holes
6. Remove braces and stringlines
7. Mark the height of the posts
8. Mark the rebate
9. Cut posts to correct height
10. Cut out rebate
11. Measure and cut bearers
12. Mark where rafters will sit
13. Place bearers in rebates
14. Drill holes for bolts
15. Lay rafters on bearers and nail in place
16. Nail battens in place