what wood is used for pergolas

Best Types of Wood for an Outdoor Pergola

Full Answer

What is the best material to use for a pergola?

• Wood may have a shorter lifespan
• Wood pergolas are high maintenance
• Wood can be susceptible to decay and infestation
• It is vulnerable to cracking, warping, and expansion
• Some wood can be prohibitively expensive

Which grade timber to use for 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. These wood types offer strength and durability that look good in many types of settings from rustic to traditional.

How to build a simple wooden pergola?

• Select the site for the pergola.
• Measure an area that is 8- x 8-feet square.
• Use spray paint to mark the area.
• If you want 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.
• Add 3 to 4 inches of gravel to each of the four holes.

What size lumber for Pergola?

Pergola beam size for 18′ span:-As per thumb rule and general guidelines, it is recommended that for a 18′ (18 feet) span you will need at least 2″x12″ size of wood beam used for pergola made of treated or hardwood timber or more. Thus, for a 18 foot span, 2×12 size of timber used for pergola beam.

What size wood do you use for a pergola?

Posts – 6×6 lumber is standard, but can be upgraded to bigger 8×8 posts for an additional fee. The posts are either attached to existing patio with 3 inch concrete anchors, or set in concrete in the ground (approximately 24” deep.) Beams – 2×8 or larger, depending on size of the pergola.

What is the best material to build a pergola?

Best Material for Pergolas: Pressure Treated Wood, Vinyl, or Cedar.

How long will a wooden pergola last?

about five yearsWith 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.

Is pine Good for pergola?

Pressure treated pine, the most affordable pergola wood option, is also very rot and insect resistant and able to withstand severe elements.

Do I need pressure treated wood for 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.

How much does a 12x12 pergola cost?

between $4,320 and $8,640A typical 12x12 pergola will cost between $4,320 and $8,640 depending on your choice of materials and style.

How long does cedar wood pergola last?

With limited maintenance, expect a wood pergola to last about five years. You can improve its lifespan to 10 to 12 years with annual cleaning, staining or sealing.

Why are pergolas so expensive?

Pergolas are expensive because they are large structures that you want to last. By choosing a high-quality pergola made of fiberglass, steel, or aluminum, you won't have to worry about replacing it every couple of years.

Does a cedar pergola need to be stained?

Over time, your pergola will change color as the cedar weathers. In order to preserve the original color, you can use a stain and sealer. On the re-stain, the cedar is much more open and actually accepts more stain.

Is cedar better than pressure-treated for a pergola?

Overall, cedar will require less maintenance than pressure-treated lumber, although the up-front cost can be significantly more than cedar lumber. For many, the choice often comes down to initial cost and the materials available at your local home reno store.

How do you preserve pergola wood?

The natural color of a pergola can be improved and preserved by coating the wood with a waterproof sealer―a transparent varnish that improves weather resistance. As wood ages it changes color, acquiring a more rustic look with the passage of time. When applying the sealant, consider the amount of weathering needed.

Is Doug Fir good for pergolas?

Douglas Fir is universally recognized by architects, engineers, and timber framers as the preferred choice for use in structural timber applications such as pergolas or pavilions.

Which is better steel or aluminum pergola?

Aluminum pergolas are lightweight and will never rust, which makes them ideal for those living near seaside locals. Metal never splinters, sags, or twists like wood. Steel frame pergolas can be prone to rust and corrosion if not treated with a 100% zinc coating upon installation.

Is it cheaper to build your own pergola?

Building a pergola yourself will be more cost-effective than buying one because you only have to pay for materials and not labor. The national average cost to build a 10 ft. traditional wooden pergola yourself is about $3,500; however, it varies depending on the project and the location.

Is vinyl or aluminum pergola better?

If you're looking for good quality, you will want to choose for an aluminum pergola. Aluminum also offers a color palette that is a bit wider in comparison to vinyl pergolas, which are nearly always stark white.

Should I use 4x4 or 6x6 for pergola?

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 is the best cedar for a pergola?

Western red cedar is a beautiful light amber color with a wonderfully appealing fragrance that adds another dimension to its qualities. Two of the top reasons for choosing western red cedar for pergola wood are: 1) that it’s highly resistant to decay, and 2) that it withstands severe elements.

What color is pine wood?

This wood type comes with a green appearance. As it dries it will turn to a golden brown, then gray if it is not water sealed or stained. You will need to wait a few months before staining or painting the pine lumber since it will be saturated with the pressure treatment when you get it.

Is cedar good for outdoor use?

These reasons make this wood type ideal for outdoor use, and it is used in situations where exposure to the elements is continually severe. It is lightweight with close, even grain, and is easily worked and can be finished smooth with little effort. This type of cedar takes paints and stains very well.

Is western red cedar rot resistant?

Much like pine pergola kits, western red cedar is also naturally insect and rot resistant, and can withstand severe elements . Start here with determining the best wood type for your backyard space. Guide to Choosing Wood Pergolas →.

What is the best lumber for a pergola?

Western Red Cedar is our choice as the best lumber for pergolas because it looks gorgeous, ages well, and has a handful of practical advantages. However, we also offer other great lumber options that have their own unique looks and benefits — as well as come in at lower price points.

What Makes Cedar the Best Wood for an Outdoor Pergola?

Immediately recognizable by the distinct red hue, Western Red Cedar is our number once pick as the best wood for an outdoor pergola, pavilion, or any other outdoor structure. Simply put: the beautiful look paired with the practical advantages make it a must-have for any project. Here are the key reasons why we recommend this species of American hardwood:

How long does a red cedar pergola last?

If you keep up with regular maintenance by keeping your Cedar pergola stained, you can enjoy a more than 30-year lifespan from it.