what size post should i use for a pergola

Should pergola posts be 4x4 or 6x6?

For a very small pergola with only 4 to 6 feet between posts, 4×4 supports will work. For anything larger, though, the 6×6 stock will not only offer a beefier look and greater carrying capacity, but 6×6 also resists the twisting associated with the more spindly 4x4s.

What size should beams be for a pergola?

As per thumb rule and general guidelines, it is recommended that for a 10′ span you will need at least 2″x6″ size of wood beam used for pergola, for a 12 foot span – 2×8 size timber, for a 14, 15 &16 foot span – 2×10 size timber and for 18 to 20 foot span you will need 2×12 size timber.

What posts do I need for a pergola?

A standard pergola will most often use 6 x 6 inch posts for support. A very small pergola may use 4 x 4 inch posts as long as it has less than 4 to 6 feet between posts. As a general rule of thumb the depth of hole you use for your posts should be approximately 1/4 of the height of your post.

How deep do posts need to be for a pergola?

Dig holes in the locations for the pergola's posts, making each hole at least 12 inches in diameter and the depth of one-third the height of one post. If, for example, each post is 12 feet tall, then make each hole 4 feet deep. In that example, the pergola will be about 8 feet tall.

How far can a 4x4 span without sagging?

The initial sag or deflection will typically increase by as much as 50% over time, even with nothing other than gravity affecting it. By itself, with no load, a 4×4 will span 8 feet without noticeable sag.

Can I use fence posts for pergola?

There are now 2 different options depending on where you are building your pergola. Adding fence posts into grass or mud! 2) Position your fence post footings in the correct position needed and push down into the soil as much as possible, ensure that he post is level from the top and both sides.

What size timber should I use for a pergola?

The width of the span would determine the thickness of the rafters. For the pergola to gave a 3m span, then 100 x 50mm (4x2in) timber for the rafters would be adequate. If the span of the pergola is more than 3m, then consider 125 x 50mm (5x2in) timbers for the pergola 'roof'.

How do I strengthen my pergola posts?

Some potential options:sink the front two posts into the ground several feet and surround with concrete (typically you'd want 1/3 of the post in the ground.add diagonal bracing. ... metal reinforcement. ... add a railing to that side of the deck and diagonal brace that (tensioned cables, wood panels, diagonal rails, etc.)More items...•

Should a pergola be anchored?

Even though a pergola is heavy and difficult to move once assembled, it has to be anchored securely to the ground for a number of reasons. Primary among them is safety.

Should pergola posts be buried?

If you choose set posts directly into the ground and just back-fill the post into the hole, you must ensure the post is treated specifically for ground contact. And even then, you should expect the pergola posts will never last as long as those secured above the grade by metal post anchoring hardware.

Which way should a pergola face?

For optimal morning and afternoon shade coverage, it's best to ensure a traditional pergola's beams orient north and south, with an angle toward the east. The easiest way to do this is by first identifying true north.

What angle should a pergola roof be?

We mentioned earlier that flat roofs are almost level. But flat pergolas should slope a little bit to one side so that water slides off instead of collecting on the roof. We call this angle the “pitch” and we recommend at least a 5-degree pitch.

How far can you span a 2x12 for pergola?

There's not quite enough information here to give a definitive answer, but for decks, a rule of thumb is when supporting joists that span 12 feet, a double ply beam can span in feet a value equal to its depth in inches. Thus, a double 2x12 beam could span 12 feet - with 20' beams, posts at 10' might look the best.

What size timber should I use for a pergola?

The width of the span would determine the thickness of the rafters. For the pergola to gave a 3m span, then 100 x 50mm (4x2in) timber for the rafters would be adequate. If the span of the pergola is more than 3m, then consider 125 x 50mm (5x2in) timbers for the pergola 'roof'.

How far can you span a 2x6 on a pergola?

A 2×6 can support up to 50 pounds per square foot of weight without sagging with a maximum span of about 12 feet when spanning a distance horizontally, with the 2×6 standing in a vertical position. This number includes both live and dead weight.

How wide are pergola rafters?

The size of the pergolas rafter Usually, there are dimensions 2 inches into 6 inches. Also, they can be 2 inches into 8 inches and 1.5 inches into 7.25 inches. You can choose the length of the rafters as much as you like.