how much does it cost to build a pergola yourself

Full Answer

How much does it cost to install a pergola?

Typically, the cost of a pergola installation will cost anywhere from $2000 for the most basic materials alone, to $5000 for a full custom build with shade screens and the whole works, installed by a professional carpenter or builder, depending on the regulations in your state. Different designs will run you different costs.

How to build a pergola [easy DIY construction]?

Prep the Area

• Select the site for the pergola.
• Measure an area that is 8- x 8-feet square.
• Use spray paint to mark the area.
• For a pergola that’s smaller or larger, adjust the sizing as needed.
• Use a post-hole digger to dig a hole 24 inches deep by 9 inches wide at each corner of the outlined area.
• Add 3 to 4 inches of gravel to each hole.

Does pergola need footings?

Pergolas require a minimum of three and usually four or more footings. Digging three or four holes will take you at least two or three hours depending on the soil type. Subsequently, one may also ask, how deep does a footing need to be for a pergola? For an 8-foot tall structure like this one, plan on about two-feet in depth.

Can you install a pergola?

Pergolas can be installed attached to your house or freestanding in your yard and are open to the outdoors. Pergolas often have dramatic structural designs, which make for distinct and beautiful outdoor lounge areas. Finally, installing a pergola will typically cost less than adding a sunroom. Do I need to obtain any building permits?

Is it cheaper to build your own pergola?

A DIY pergola usually will cost less than more complex outdoor structures such as patio covers and gazebos, yet more than arbors and trellises. As with any DIY home project, you pay only for the materials, not for the labor. One exception may be with the paving.

How much does it cost to build a 12x12 pergola?

A typical pergola cost ranges between $2,124 and $5,968 or between $30 and $60 per square foot. This means a 12-foot-by-12-foot pergola would cost between $4,320 and $8,640. This makes it a more expensive size for homeowners to consider, though choosing a less expensive material can help lower the overall cost.

Can I build a pergola myself?

Building a pergola can be a simple to challenging building project depending on what plan you pick so make sure you know your skill level before starting. All the free pergola plans include building instructions, lists of tools and materials that you'll need, diagrams, and photos.

How much does it cost to build a 10X12 pergola?

10X12 pressure-treated wood pergola: around $1,700. 10X16 pressure-treated wood pergola: around $2,000. 16X32 pressure-treated wood pergola: around $5,000.

Does a pergola add value to your home?

Here's what we tell our customers: yes, a pergola will add market value to any house. Since outdoor living has become more popular than ever, the value of properties with a pergola or a comfortable outdoor space has been on the rise. A safe gauge for a deck or backyard improvement is about 50% — 80% for your ROI.

How long will a wooden pergola last?

about five yearsWooden pergolas With somewhat limited maintenance, a wooden pergola typically lasts about five years, although you can improve its lifespan to 10 to 12 years through annual cleaning, staining and sealing.

How much does it cost to build a 20x20 pergola?

You can expect to pay around $30 to $60 per square foot on average to build a pergola, including the cost of materials and installation.

What is the best type of wood to use for a pergola?

Two classic choices of wood for pergola kits are pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine and Western Red Rough Sawn Tight Knot Cedar. Both are excellent choices for a sturdy pergola that will last for many years.

What is a pergola with a roof called?

Pergolas with a roof are often referred to as pavilions. Although they are quite similar in design, a pavilion is a freestanding pergola with a fixed roof that generally completely covers the pergola.

Do I need pressure-treated wood for a pergola?

One of the most common types of wood used for pergola construction is pressure-treated pine. Pressure-treated pine, the most affordable option, is rot and insect resistant. However, a preservative will need to be applied after construction to slow the process of weathering.

What is the average cost of a wood pergola?

The cost to build a pergola usually ranges between $2,200 and $5,900, or $4,000 on average. You could spend as little as $1,300 on a basic build while you may pay as much as $10,000 for a custom design.

Can you build a pergola with untreated wood?

Rough-sawn untreated pine is an option, but it must be stained or painted. The rough texture of rough-sawn wood will hold up better that planed wood. If using untreated wood, the posts should always be mounted above ground.

How much does it cost to build a 12x12 gazebo?

between $4,500 and $8,500How Much Does a 12x12 Gazebo Cost? The cost to build a gazebo varies depending on the materials it's made from. You can expect to pay between $4,500 and $8,500 for a 12-foot by 12-foot gazebo.

How much does it cost to assemble a pergola?

The total installation cost for a pergola ranges from $2,000 to $6,000 on average, and materials make up roughly $1,000 to $5,000 of that cost. Labor typically runs from $500 to $1,000 but can cost more depending on the project's complexity. Below are some of the major factors that will impact your budget.

How much does it cost to build a 20x20 pergola?

On average, adding a pergola will cost around $3,500 for a professional installation, and most spend between $2,000 and $5,000 for the project.

How much should a pergola cost?

Typical Price Range of Pergolas The cost of constructing a pergola can range anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000, or $10 to $60 per square foot, depending on the size, materials selected, and whether you hire a pro or DIY, says Bailey Carson, home care expert at Angi.

What’s the difference between a pergola and a gazebo?

Many people use the terms “pergola” and “gazebo” interchangeably since they’re both outdoor structures. However, they’re not the same thing. Most t...

Is it cheaper to buy or build a pergola?

Most DIY jobs tend to be cheaper than hiring a professional, but it’s important to consider value versus cash outlay. A professional can ensure you...

Do pergolas increase home value?

The return on investment for a pergola will depend on the size, design, material type and, most importantly, the location of the home it’s installe...

Does a pergola add value to a home?

Pergolas do not add value, but they enhance your landscaping and curb appeal. This can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Do pergolas really block the sun?

A standard pergola does not offer much shade, but some block as much as 90% of the sunlight with closely spaced slats. Others have cloth or vines a...

Which direction should a pergola face?​

There is no set direction for a pergola to face because they are open-sided structures.

Do pergolas block rain?

No, pergolas do not block rain unless a roof is added.

What should I hang on my pergola?

Any type of climbing vine native to your area makes a great addition to a pergola. Shade sails are also a good option.

How much does a pergola cost to build?

The average cost range to build a pergola is $1,900 to $6,500, with most people paying around $4,500 for a cedar pergola.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pergola by Square Foot?

Whether you have a small yard or a large one, a pergola can add both style and shade. The typical cost to build a pergola is $2,124 to $5,968, and square footage is one of the biggest factors that affects how much you’ll pay.

How big is a pergola?

Many retail hardware stores now offer DIY pergola kits in standard sizes, for example 10 feet by 10 feet.

What is the best wood for a pergola?

Common options include painted or stained cedar or redwood. In addition, vinyl and PVC pergolas are becoming popular because of their longevity and resistance to extreme weather. Non-wood choices also come in a broad variety of colors that won't peel or chip over time.

Why add a pergola to a deck?

It can provide better shade, design an outdoor living room, and serve as easy place to hang plant or train vines. These wooden structures are becoming popular among homeowners who want to improve the aesthetic value of their yard and improve the function of their deck.

What is the difference between a round pergola and a square pergola?

These differ from gazebos in that they are completely open on the sides and support a less complete, typically flat, roof. Round pergolas are usually smaller than square pergolas.

How many sides does a dome pergola have?

Another unique look is the dome pergola. Dome pergolas use 5 to 8 sides to create a round shape. The same open latticework is used on the top of the pergola, but rather than running straight across or in an arch, it runs in concentric circles up to a dome. This gives the pergola an appearance reminiscent of a gazebo. The top and sides of the pergola are still open, so it has the same airy appearance as true pergolas.

What are the pros and cons of a pergola?

Pros and Cons of a Pergola. Pergolas are just one type of structure that can add definition and shade to your landscaping. Like all projects, pergolas have positive and negative attributes to consider before building. Pergolas are versatile.

How much does a vinyl pergola cost?

They cost between $10 and $30 a foot depending on style.

What is a curved roof pergola?

A curved roof pergola is built similarly to a traditional pergola but with an arched top. The top may be built from materials like mesh or wire so that vines and plants can be trained across it. Curved roof pergolas are usually freestanding, and smaller models may be used as gates.

What is a thatched pergola?

Thatched pergolas are less common but can be found in some tropical areas. They consist of a frame and a thatched roof made of traditional materials, including straw. These are custom-built and can be costly since it is difficult to find contractors who know how to thatch properly.

What is an adjustable pergola?

Adjustable and retractable pergolas come in many forms. They can have a shade that extends automatically from below the frame, or the roof itself may be positionable. These tend to be custom-made and considerably more expensive than traditional pergolas. They are also usually attached to homes rather than freestanding.

How much does a pergola cost?

Depending on the quality of the pergola will affect how much it costs. A lower end 10×10 pergola could cost you anywhere from $500 to $1,500. A high-end pergola that is the same size would cost you anywhere from $3,500 to $10,000!

How much does it cost to build a 12x12 pergola?

difference adds a bit more room for plants and other items that would enhance your relaxation. It costs $3,780 to build a 12×12 wooden pergola and about $5,270 for a vinyl one. So for a high-end 12×12 pergola, you are looking at around $3,500 to $5,500.

What other costs are associated with a Pergola?

Once you have the full structure priced out, it is time to look at the pergola’s final costs. The interior and exterior options. These options will add convenience to your relaxation and add a touch of beauty to your already free-standing pergola, but what are those options?

How many posts does a 12x12 pergola need?

Another cost to consider is whether the pergola will be attached to your home or another building or detached. Depending on the pergola size, there will be several posts that are required to support the pergola. A sizeable 12×20 pergola will require six posts, whereas a 12×12 will only need four. This is important when calculating the costs of attaching the pergola to your house.

How long does cedar wood last?

Cedar wood can typically last more than 20 years without splitting, rotting, or warping! Let’s take a closer look at the cost of a cedar pergola with different sizes.

What size is a pergola?

There are many sizes available for a pergola. The sizes range from a small 8×8 to an enormous 20×40! But exactly how much does it cost for a particular size? For simplicity, we will be using the traditional pergolas as an example of finding the cost of a pergola. Now let’s dig in a bit more to see those numbers!

Is vinyl good for pergolas?

Vinyl is a very delicate material and is associated with class and modernness. Vinyl is an excellent material to have on your pergola because of the aesthetics it can bring to your backyard. Let’s dive a bit deeper into the costs of vinyl pergolas, depending on their size.

What is the best thing about a pergola?

One of the best things about a DIY pergola is its moderate cost. A DIY pergola usually will cost less than more complex outdoor structures such as patio covers and gazebos, yet more than arbors and trellises. As with any DIY home project, you pay only for the materials, not for the labor. One exception may be with the paving.

What is a pergola?

Pergola. Traditional pergolas that often span for miles to shade paths for horseback riding have since been modernized and adapted for residential use. Backyard pergolas are shorter and are more akin to open-air patio structures than to long pathway covers.

What is an arbor in landscaping?

Built over an outdoor pathway, an arbor is a short arched or flat passageway meant for growing trailing plants. An arbor can provide a beautiful entrance to a property.

How many posts are needed to build a pergola?

Building your own pergola is labor-intensive but simple to understand. Just six posts define the perimeter of this 8-foot by 16-foot structure. At top is a lightweight partial cover constructed of one-by-threes—ideal for trailing plants.

What is a patio cover?

A patio cover is a structure attached to the house that provides full coverage to the area below. The roof is usually kept to a low angle. Since one side of the patio cover is supported by the house, the other side is supported by two or more posts.

What materials are needed for a pergola?

Since this pergola includes materials such as ready-mix concrete, gravel, and over 40 pieces of heavy lumber, you may want to have the materials delivered rather than picking them up by yourself.

How much does it cost to build a pergola?

A basic garden pergola measuring 8 feet wide by 16 feet long, built of pressure-treated wood and mounted in the ground with concrete, can be built for around $570. This cost does not include taxes, delivery fees, or pavers. Appearance-grade pressure-treated wood will raise the price.

How long should a pergola be?

There’s quite a bit of wiggle room. The one caveat here is if you’re building an extremely large pergola. Naturally, if your pergola is 60 feet long, you’re going to need more materials.

What does low DIY cost mean?

The low DIY material cost means that you’re only out time. And to be honest, it would only take someone a weekend to get it erected. Perhaps a single day if they had a buddy help.

Why are there less clients?

It also means that they’ll be less divided between projects and can adequately give yours the attention it deserves.

What happens if you measure your area and bring a blueprint to a contractor?

If you measure your area and bring a suitable blueprint to a contractor, this can make their job a lot easier. They won’t have to spend time drawing out a custom solution for you and you won’t have to pay for that time.

Is lumber cheap for pergolas?

The lumber was relatively cheap until the last few months of the lumber shortage. These shady folks are padding the cost of the material to inflate the total cost of the project. If you end up building a DIY pergola, you will be spending a lot less on materials.

How much does it cost to build a pergola?

A landscape contractor will charge $6,246 to assemble a 10-foot-by-12-foot pergola kit on a brick base, which includes the labor and material. You can buy the kit and foundation and floor material for $2,800 and do it yourself, and save 55 percent. But the job is complicated, involving pouring cement footings, laying a floor, and assembling all the components. If there’s any doubt, hire a pro, and you supply the creative touch with lush plantings like clematis and wisteria that climb and grow to enclose the new outdoor living space.

What is a pergola?

A pergola can become a focal point in an ordinary yard because it creates an attractive outdoor living space for seating and dining, either as a standalone structure or used to cover a deck. It is a trellis -like room made of supports and rafters where vines and plants grow around and through them.

Can you build a pergola yourself?

Years ago, a pergola was a custom-built structure but today, you can buy a kit and have it assembled or do it yourself. This is a complex project that involves several phases. The components of the unit are made of wood and should be primed and painted or stained before construction. The structure requires concrete footings for the supports; for flooring a base of quarry stone or brick are good choices.

How much does it cost to build a pergola?

The average cost range to build a custom pergola is between $2,100 and $5,900, with most homeowners spending around $3,500 on a 10’ x 10’ pergola made of cedar in a traditional design.

What is included in the cost of a pergola?

Included in the cost of your custom pergola is the labor. When you contract with a large pergola manufacturer for a custom pergola, the labor is included in the total cost of your pergola. You may also have additional costs for assembly, depending on whether the company you work with is local and whether they do the assembly themselves or not. Many will contract that out, or specify that you need to find your own assembly labor.

What are the pros and cons of a pergola?

In addition, each material will have other pros and cons, such as longevity, looks and maintenance.

What is a pergola?

Pergolas have a lot to offer for any property. They’re beautiful and functional, adding definition and detail to an area , while also providing some much-needed shade on sunny days. When the time comes to purchase a pergola for your home, you have two basic options: Either you purchase a ready-made kit to be assembled at your home by yourself ...

How much does a 10x4 pergola cost?

As expected, adjusting the size of a pergola will have a direct impact on costs. A 10’ x 4’ pergola will typically range from $1,200 to $2,400. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a 10’ x 20’ pergola will put a $6,000 to $12,000 dent in your wallet.

How many different materials are used in a pergola?

There are seven different materials that are typically used in building a pergola. Below are the average costs per square foot for each material: It’s important to keep in mind that when choosing your material that it’s not just the cost that you need to consider.

Do you need a plan for a pergola?

If you are having the pergola built on-site, then you will need to have plans . Some carpenters that specialize in pergolas may work with you to draw up custom plans. If that is the case, you will probably have additional fees for their time.