A pergola is any one of several styles of open frame or lattice roofs, supported by columns, either attached to another structure or free standing. Often used as a garden feature, the open roofs are sometimes used for climbing vines. A patio cover is very similar, but employs a solid or covered roof as protection against the elements. Sometimes called arbors or trellises, pergolas can be small, large, used to cover walkways, or even as extensions of homes.

The word pergola is Latin and means projecting eave, an extended roof or arbor. Variations of these structures have been used since prehistoric times. But, the first known use of the term pergola dates back to the 1640's. Used to cover walkways or roads, or as extensions of buildings, pergolas are now found world wide. It has been relatively recently that they have become popular in gardens and backyards.

Photo at left: Ancient pergola on the Via Francigena, the 9th century road connecting Rome and Canterbury, England. This pergola structure is near Turin, Italy, and when, exactly, it was constructed is unknown.

The stated sizes of our standard pergolas are measured to the outside corner of the posts, not including any base trim.  This forms the “footprint” of the pergola.  Note that if you choose round columns, there is no corner, so the size is still the same as if a square post was selected. Remember, the beams and runners that make up the roof extend beyond the footprint of the pergola.

One feature of our 2 beam pergolas is that the stated size is the maximum size – as you can adjust the location of the posts slightly by moving the beams closer together.  This will create a larger overhang of the roof’s runners.  There are limitations, as each of the posts cannot be moved more than 8”. Be sure to ask about this so that you order the right size pergola.  Instead of moving the posts, it may be best to order a different sized pergola.

The roof of your pergola is constructed of crossing beams and runners.  The beams of a 2 beam pergola run parallel to the longer side of your rectangular structure, while the main runners sit on top of those beams and run perpendicular to them. Top Runners then run perpendicular to the main runners, and therefore run the longer dimension (same as the beams).  Beams and runners overhang the stated size of the pergola about 12” on each side.  Therefore, the total size of the top of the pergola is two feet larger than the stated size.  Moving the beams or posts will create larger overhangs, but the overall size of the top will not change, unless you order a custom pergola.

Important Note:  Our deluxe 4 beam pergolas do not allow you to move the posts.  The outside corners of the posts will be the stated size of the pergola.  The 4 beams run the entire perimeter of the pergola, but the main runners will still run the shorter dimension and the top runners will run the longer.

(We can customize the size of the pergola to fit your needs… see next question)

Of course.  If you need a pergola that is either smaller or larger than one of our standard sizes, we can make one that will fit perfectly into your area.  If you have any structures, buildings, trees, deck railings, or anything else that may limit the size of your pergola, either at the base or the overhanging beams and runners, you will need to be sure to give us the exact measurements.  This is best done by sending us a drawing that shows the sizes and the space needed.  A photograph may also be helpful.  Keep in mind that we will build to your exact dimensions, so be sure to measure carefully.  Cutting the runners or beams once you receive the kit will be difficult, and may affect the finished look of the pergola.  The old carpenters phrase “Measure twice, cut once” is very important here.

If you do not have obstacles, but simply need a different size, we can do just about any configuration.  Keep in mind that there are limits to what we can do if the design is determined to be unsafe.  For example, the maximum span a beam should run between posts is 16 feet, unless we use heavier or glue lam beams.  Though, sometimes, you just might want a heavier duty appearing structure.  Discuss this with us, as we can build just about anything you can (safely) dream of.

Photos:  Custom Pergolas- 5th on the Park condominiums (19th and 28th floors), Harlem, NY.

Our standard Pergolas are made of Pressure Treated Southern Yellow Pine, Western Red Cedar, or Maintenance free Vinyl.
	Treated Pine: #1 Grade Southern Yellow Pine that has been pressure treated to resist decay and insect damage. As with all of our treated wood products, the wood is "KDAT" (kiln dried after treatment) to make sure it stays flat and does not bow or twist. The process also limits checking.
	Red Cedar: Western Red Cedar is, above all, a wood of exceptional beauty. In its natural, unfinished state, it has a richly textured, tactile grain combined with a palette of warm, mellow tones ranging from light amber to deep honey brown. No man-made material can duplicate the depth of cedar's natural luster. It also remains subtly aromatic, and the characeristic fragrance of cedar adds another dimension to its universal appeal.
	Vinyl: This is a type of plastic that is made from ethylene (found in crude oil) and chlorine (found in regular salt). When processed, both substances are combined to form Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) resin, or as is commonly referred to - Vinyl.  The vinyl protects the wooden inserts, which provide the strength of the pergola.  We use Treated Pine inside the posts and beams for strength, and untreated Southern Yellow pine inside the vinyl runners.  The beams and runners come with the end caps and mounting brackets pre installed.
All of our hardware and anchor brackets are either galvanized or stainless steel.

All of our runners, both the main runners that rest on the beams and the top runners are spaced 16” on center.  This provides strength and stability, and allows proper spacing for your clinging vines.  If you would like closer spacing (more runners) for more shade, this is no problem.  You just need to discuss this with us.  Note that if you add a lot of extra runners, we may need to “beef up” the support structure by adding more posts or heavier beams. 

First, you will need to know how you are going to mount the pergola to your house.  We send the board that will be attached to your house, but we do not supply the actual fasteners, because you will need to determine the best method to attach and what to use. (We will assist you with this!).   Anchoring to wood siding is the easiest.  Anchoring to a house with vinyl or aluminum is a little more difficult in that you need to make sure you do not damage the siding.  You need to pre drill holes in the ledger board based on the location of the walls studs.  Brick walls require special anchors and bolts, and you need to be very accurate with the locations of your anchors.  Attaching to fascia boards, beams, or other smooth surfaces also are common. 

We will need to determine the correct size of your pergola before ordering.  Be sure not to disturb gutters or downspouts, and take into consideration any obstacles: chimneys, porch railings, steps, windows, and doors.  

Height has to be determined.  We need to be sure to send posts that are long enough to work with the height of your pergola.  If attaching above a door, window, a roof overhang, or to other structures (a gazebo for instance) you may need a custom height post.  Since it is best to figure the exact height as you are assembling the pergola, we simply send a longer (10’) post with all wall mount pergolas. You will usually be able to cut it to the right length.  If you feel that you will need longer posts, let us know. 

A simple sketch with accurate dimensions and a photo will help us to understand your needs.  This extra step in the process will save many potential headaches after delivery.  Remember: Prior Planning Prevents Poor Pergola Performance! (We just made that up!)

With all wall mount pergolas, we suggest that you consult with a local handyman or contractor. We will be glad to discuss all options with them.

We ship our pergolas by Motor Freight carrier, or if prudent, on our own truck.  The pergola is packaged on a pallet, with a wooden crate for protection and then covered with a “boat wrap”.  Note that the size of your pergola will determine the size of your delivered package.  A good rule of thumb is that the length of the pallet will be 3’ longer than the longest dimension of the pergola, but not more than about 19’ long – since pergolas longer than 16’ will have two-piece beams.  (The picture at right is a 10x12 pergola, package is 15’ long)  

If delivered by motor freight carrier, you will need to be sure that you have help to unload the shipment.   Unless you have a forklift with extended forks handy, the crate will probably need to be opened and hand unloaded.  The entire package will weigh a few hundred pounds, or so.  Unloading piece-by-piece should only take a short time, as there are generally not too many pieces, and each part is not extremely heavy.  We let you know the day and approximate time for delivery as best we can to make sure you have your helper available. 

If delivered by our truck, our custom trailer practically unloads itself, so you will not have to have a helper to unload. 

Your shipment includes all the needed hardware, brackets, and instructions.

Our Project Advisors are available if you have any questions. Feel free to contact our customer service at 1-888-293-2339. After hours, you may reach Mike Donaldson at (412)303-7655.

Any solid, level base will work…  This can be an existing concrete patio or wooden deck.  The posts will need to set on a base that is strong enough to hold the weight of the pergola, so placing the pergola on brick pavers or in the yard will require something be added as a base.  This usually is just small concrete footers.  Be sure to discuss this with us prior to doing any digging or pouring concrete to make sure that the footers are in the proper position based on the pergola you are ordering.  Also be sure to check with your local area for building codes, depth of the frost line, etc.  Most importantly, the concrete footers must be level with each other and in the correct locations. 

If attaching to a deck, you will need to make sure that the anchor bolts are attaching to a solid weight supporting structure (Joists, beams or added blocking) and not just into a decking board.  Be sure that you’ve taken into consideration the location of railings, gates, and steps when ordering so you will have the right size.

If you are considering placing the pergola in your yard, or attaching an additional extension onto your patio, be sure to explore our optional decks.  This could make planning and placement easier and keep from digging up your yard.  This option is also a favorite if you want to cover an old concrete area (where the shed used to be, an older weathered patio, etc.)

As with any construction project, ease or difficulty is a relative term! Usually the skill level required is that of a weekend handyman (or woman).  Planning and laying out the area, and assuring that the proper base is provided are usually more difficult than the actual assembly of the pergola.  You will note that we use the words “install” and “assembly”, and not “build” or “construct”!  In most cases, to take your project from a “stack of lumber” to a beautiful finished pergola only requires that you put the pieces together (screws and bolts). All hardware and instructions are included. There is generally no cutting involved (or very little, depending on what you’ve ordered – wall mount, custom options, etc.)

Instructions tell you everything you need to know, and if you have ordered a custom feature- we will hand write whatever is needed to make sure that you have help along the way.  Also, you will be provided the cell phone number of an associate experienced in the assembly of the pergola.  He will be available almost any time, day, night, and weekends. You may contact Mike Donaldson after hours for assistance at (412)-303-7655.

Note:  You should have at least one helper for your pergola project.  You will be working from a ladder at times, and some of the parts are rather long, so a second set of hands will come in… handy.  The deluxe 4 beam models include complete assembled beams that include braces.  These are quite hard to handle even with 2 people, so a third helper will really be needed. 

Yes, all wooden pergolas can be finished.  In fact we suggest that you use some kind of finish on any of our wooden pergolas (Cedar or Treated Pine) and we now offer many stain colors as an option.  Of course, a vinyl pergola cannot be stained and should not be painted, but there are three color choices for the 4-beam option and 4 colors for the 2-beam option.

A few notes about finishing your wooden pergola:
If you do nothing, the wood is either Treated Pine or Western Red Cedar, and each will last for decades without rotting, decaying or being eaten by insects.  As with any wood however, over time, the wood will turn gray with age.  You will notice this change after only a few months.  Some people prefer this look, and it fits with the rest of the surroundings.  One trick, if you are trying to match other wood, perhaps a fence or deck, etc – is to let the pergola weather to its desired color, then use a clear sealer to keep the color from darkening.

A clear sealer will not change the actual color of the wood, but will protect it from moisture, heat, and UV rays.  Usually you will need to reseal the wood every one to two years depending on the climate and the quality of sealer.  Probably more than any other home remodeling product, the price you pay for a sealer is directly proportionate to its quality and longevity.  Be sure to get a high quality product, you will not save money with an inexpensive brand if you have to reseal the pergola every few months.

A stain can be used as well, but you need to be sure to use an exterior stain that also provides the same properties as a clear sealer for protection.  These stain / sealers do double duty for appearance and protection. We recommend using a color of choice when staining. Either a cedar ton or vibrant color that will maintain the original look for many years.

Paint: 

Treated Pine: You can paint the treated pine pergolas with any good quality exterior latex paint.  As with stain, a cheaper brand may mean that you will have to paint again sooner, while a good paint could last 10 years or more before having to repaint. 

Keep in mind as well what many are told about painting treated lumber.  Most people think that you have to let the wood set for a year or so before you can paint.  While this is true with most lumber that you would purchase at the local lumber yard, this is not the case with our pergolas.  Store bought lumber is usually still wet and needs to dry out before painting so that the moisture does not leak out of the wood, ruining your paint job.  We use a #1 grade KDAT lumber.  KDAT stands for Kiln Dried After Treatment, which means… well…  After it is Treated… it is Dried… in a Kiln.  Sounds simple enough, but what that means to you is that you can paint the pergola immediately. Even before assembly if you want.  The process takes the excess moisture out of the lumber, which also means that if the wood was going to warp or twist, it would have already done so.  The lumber will not swell and shrink with temperature changes which can also increase your paint life. 

Cedar:  Although it is possible to paint cedar, we highly suggest that you use a stain instead.  If you want a painted pergola, consider going with the treated pine.  The naturally occurring oils and chemicals in cedar resist a lot of things… including paint! So the cedar painting process of primer-paint-sand-clean-strip-voodoo dance-wish-hope-and-pray and repeat may be burdensome.  If you decide to paint the cedar, be sure to consult with a paint expert who is knowledgeable in painting Western Red Cedar.  They will know the proper products and techniques to make this as painless as possible.

Yes, we offer installation worldwide at an additional cost. We are located near Pittsburgh, PA, but have many partners, contractors, and installers who have worked with us throughout the world.  If you want us to install, or make arrangements for installation by our partners, contact us and we will be able to give you a quote.  If you have your own contractor or handyman, we will work with them to be sure that they build your pergola to our standards.  Travel time may make it more cost effective to have your local person install, depending on where you are located. 

Yes, we can build to your specs.  No job or design is ever too big or too small, and we always like a challenge.  If you have drawings, sketches, photos or just something in your mind, contact us.  Of course, we will only build custom designs that we feel comfortable with the structural soundness of, and those pesky laws of physics may come into play, but rest assured that if it is possible, chances are, we can make it work for you. Please, contact us with your ideas at 1-888-293-2339 and ask for a Project Advisor.

Our lead time for most pergolas (provided that they do not include custom lumber, glue lam beams, or other special order components) is about 2 weeks.  We can ship faster if you need to meet a deadline, or have other scheduling concerns.  Once the pergola ships, the actual delivery will depend on where you are.  Transit and delivery time to the 48 contiguous US states is generally 5 business days or less.  Some out of the way areas will take longer.  And, of course, Alaska, Hawaii, and any international or overseas delivery will take longer as well.

One thing you do not need to worry about is not knowing just when to expect your delivery.  We keep you informed along the way as to the estimated shipping date. After it does ship, you are given tracking numbers to follow your pergola right to your door.  We only use transportation companies and brokers who agree to make sure that you the customer is well informed as to delivery times.

For structural purposes, the minimum number of posts will depend on the length of the pergola. All pergola beam systems (2 beam or 4 beam models) are designed so that only 2 posts per beam are needed if the stated size of the pergola is 16’ or less. For these smaller structures, free standing models will feature 4 posts while wall mounts will only need 2. However pergolas over 16’ and up to 32’ in length will have 3 posts per beam, totaling 6 posts for free standing models and 3 for a wall mount.

Yes. If you have a pergola that needs more posts, this is a simple task. This could happen if your longer pergola that requires 3 posts per beam would look better with a fourth beam. We can also remove posts in some cases. For example, if your pergola’s span is over 16’ long, but you do not want the middle post, we can custom design the pergola with a beam capable of spanning the longer distance between the posts. We do this by either using a laminated beam, or by simply “beefing up” the standard beams. Your Project Advisor will have all of the information you need to plan and customize your pergola.