This sleek, modern pergola is the ultimate backyard upgrade! It’s an ideal hangout spot for the whole family. Keep reading for a step-by-step DIY tutorial and a detailed list of the hardware we used to bring it to life.
Materials
- Toja Grid brackets
- Sealed redwood
Tools
- Saw
- Drill
Instructions
- Position the brackets where you want them.
- Build the pergola roof by cutting the wood to size and inserting it into the brackets, then securing it with screws.
- Cut the leg pieces to your desired height.
- Lift the roof and insert the legs into the brackets from underneath. We used a Genie lift for extra leverage since the pergola is close to a fence.
- Secure the legs and bottom brackets with screws.
- Level the legs and ensure everything is aligned, then bolt the structure to the ground. We bolted ours into a cement slab.
- Once the structure is bolted in place, add the rafters and roof brackets.
Notes
If you’re planning to create a similar pergola, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Size & Shape: We used 6″ wooden posts for the main structure, but Toja Grid also offers 4″ brackets for smaller posts. The size depends on the look you want.
- Layout: Take time to decide on your pergola’s shape. Our design is L-shaped, but square or rectangular designs are also beautiful.
- Cross Beams: Think about the direction of your cross beams. We aligned ours north-south to provide the best shade since we get a lot of afternoon sun from the west.
- Measurements: Double-check your measurements to make sure you have the correct amount of wood for the posts and beams.
- Extras: Don’t forget to plan for any extra touches like twinkle lights or hanging chairs. If you’re running electrical wiring, make sure to account for that during planning.
