Garden Pergolas - Plans and Kits to Build a Pergola for the Deck or Backyard

Building outdoor pergolas for the yard or pool provides an extra “room without walls” for the outdoors and a quiet spot for a private retreat. They also add architectural interest to decks and patios.

A grid pattern of rafters and laths set on top of columns creates a lattice like covering - the wider they are spaced the more sunlight comes through. A free standing pergola in the backyard provides a gateway to your home or garden.

Kits make it easy

Premanufactured sun-filtering pergola kits for the back porch give a sheltered, cool living space attached to the house. Detailed plans for construction as well as material for the outside trim, columns, beams and roof rafters are included in kit prices. Features include all-weather, vinyl-coated galvanized steel tubing or stabilized wood products.

Low maintenance options

Affordable aluminum pergolas come with a manufacturer's warranty against rotting, rusting and cracking. Easy care vinyl pergolas never require painting - order a ready to assemble kit and have it delivered to your home. Another option is a uniquely crafted and custom made wrought iron pergola.

Wooden structures

Buy more traditional wooden pergolas made from prestained, kiln dried cedar with tongue-and-groove joints, mitered corners, and beveled roof panels. Add a built in garden bench and bar with stools.

Similar to an arbor or trellis, pergolas can be used to support climbing vines or roses. A do-it-yourself home owner can learn how to build standard size covered pergolas that are prefabricated from treated pine. Product support is offered by manufacturers to help you succeed.

Look for quality products

Search for a sturdy frame that is easy to install as well as beautiful. Determine the best proportions for posts and crossbeams to make sure that the vertical support can bear the weight of the overhead roof. Verify that planks and beams are level, evenly spaced and parallel.

Relax and enjoy contemporary gardens

Shop online for a detailed plan that is designed to make erecting a durable pergola a cost effective and doable task. Find creative ideas, free information and blueprints for casual living outside.

Along with pergolas, gardeners with a little or a lot of experience can construct a trellis, garden gate, fence or bridge. Buy instructions for storage sheds, kids playhouses or pool cabanas.