How much will it cost to build my pergola?

Lumber prices and component costs vary across time and location. Giving a specific cost is not possible. You can expect materials to cost anywhere between $5-$25 per square foot of pergola coverage. Fittings and fasteners cost more than lumber. For example, the total cost of a 10ft × 10ft pergola may be less than a 20ft × 20ft, but the latter will be less expensive per square foot of covered area.

Also, lumber cost depends on the species. For example, cedar will likely cost at least twice as much as pressure-treated pine. We recommend you use pressure-treated or rot-resistant wood species.

My locale requires an engineer stamp or certification on construction drawings. Is this a service you provide?

We hold a Professional Engineer registration and are licensed to practice in Florida, and we have other firms we can work with if you need a stamp in another state. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation as requirements vary widely depending on where you live.

How long will it take to build my pergola?

This will depend on your skill level. Digging for and installing concrete footings should take a day or two. Once the footings are installed and have cured (about three days after pouring), two skilled carpenters should be able to build the rest of the pergola within two or three days.

Can you build my pergola?

Sadly, no. But we’re sure you’ll be able to find a builder in your area who can. Otherwise, if you’re a bit handy, follow our detailed how-to tutorial on building your own DIY pergola and do it yourself!

Do you sell pergola kits?

Unfortunately, we don’t. We’re a small operation, and don’t have the tooling or space to make and store premade kits.

Do I need a permit?

It depends where you live. Visit your local Building Department’s website or give them a call to see what the requirements are. In some jurisdictions, accessory structures below a certain square footage and height do not require a permit. Your homeowner’s association might also have a say in what kind of pergola you can build, so check with them as well.

Can I install my pergola on a concrete patio?

It depends on the rules of your municipality. Many require that pergolas be on concrete piers that extend below the frost line, which is how we have drawn the details in our drawings. For locations with zero frost depth, Appendix AH of the 2021 International Residential Code allows installation of patio covers on a minimum 3-1/2″ thickness concrete slab in some circumstances. If you choose to ignore the requirement to install on piers, there’s really nothing we can do to stop you.

Your standard pergola plan dimensions won’t work in my space. What can I do to fix this?

With some creativity and a bit of math, you can adjust any of the standard plan dimensions to fit spaces that fall between the standard dimensions given. If this is not something you feel comfortable doing, please contact us, and we will come up with a solution.