14×14 Free Standing Pergola – Free DIY Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about 14x14 pergola plans. This square pergola features a modern design and a very sturdy structure. You can build this free standing pergola with basic tools and have a beautiful place for serving dinner and outdoor hangout. Remember that you need to read the local building codes before starting the construction, so you comply with the legal requirements. You can add your personal touch by choosing the rafter ends design, as well as the spacing of the top slats.

I recommend you to invest in the best materials you could afford. Therefore, you should buy weather-resistant lumber, such as pine or cedar. Always take accurate measurements before adjusting the size of the components at the proper size. Drill pilot holes trough the components before inserting the wood screws, to prevent the wood from splitting. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

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14×14 Free Standing Pergola – Free DIY Plans

Building-a-14×14-pergola

Materials

• A – 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 8′ long POSTS
• B – 4 piece of 2×10 lumber – 16′ long SUPPORT BEAMS
• C – 10 pieces of 2×10 lumber – 14′ long SHADE ELEMENTS
• D – 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 43 3/4 long, 4 pieces – 36″ long BRACES
• E – 11 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 16′ long TOP SLATS

• 14 pieces of 2×10 lumber – 16 ft
• 11 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 16 ft
• 6 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 8 ft
• 2 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 12 ft
• 1 5/8″ screws
• 3 1/2″ screws
• 5 1/2″ screws
• 1 1/2 structural screws
• 6×6 post anchor – 4 pieces
• post to beam connectors
• tube form – 4 pieces
• rafter ties
• 8 pieces of 9″ carriage bolts
• wood filler , wood glue, stain/paint

Tools

• Safety gloves, glasses
• Miter saw, jigsaw
• Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
• Drill machinery and drill bits

Time

• One Week

How to build a 14×14 pergola

Cut-list—14×14-pergola

First of all, you need to cut the components for the pergola. Make sure you measure twice and cut once. Mark the cut lines and get the job done with a miter saw.

Laying-out-the-posts-for-the-pergola

Next, you need to layout the garden square pergola. Therefore, use string and batter boards to lay out the location of the posts. Measure the diagonals and make adjustments till they are equal. Moreover, you need to apply the 3-4-5 rule to each of the four corners, so you make sure they are right angled.

Fitting the posts

You can set the 6×6 posts in concrete or you can pour footings and secure them in place with anchors. Dig 2-3′ deep holes and 14″ in diameter and then compact a layer of gravel to the bottom. Fit the 12″ tubes and set the 6×6 posts into place (or fit the anchors).

Set the anchors, pour the concrete in the tube forms and let it dry out for several days. Remember that in my case, the plans are designed considering you will lock the posts using anchors. If you plan to lock the posts in concrete, just add 3′ to all the posts.

Support-beams

Use 2×10 lumber for the support beams.

Decorative-ends-for-support-beams

Mark the cut lines to the beams and get the job done with a circular saw and a jigsaw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper. You should notice that the components are made from different materials.

Fitting-the-support-beams

Align the support beams to the posts then clamp them into place tightly. Use a spirit level to plumb the posts and to check if the beams are perfectly horizontal. Notice the equal overhangs on both ends of the support beams.

Drill pilot holes through the 6×6 posts and through the beams. Insert 9″ carriage bolts (two for each joint) and lock everything tightly. Make sure the beams are horizontal and check if the corners are square.

Building-the-rafters

Use 2×10 lumber for the rafters. Mark the cut lines for the slots and get the job done with a circular saw. Mark parallel cuts inside the marked areas and then clean the recess with a chisel.

Rafter-ends

Mark the cut lines to both ends of the beams and get the job done with a jigsaw.

Fitting-the-pergola-rafters

The next step of the project is to fit the 2×10 rafters to the pergola, as shown in the diagram. Leave 12″ overhangs on both ends of the beams. Place the rafters equally spaced and secure them to the support beams with rafter ties and 1 1/2″ structural screws.

Braces-for-pergola

Use 6×6 lumber for the diagonal braces. Use a miter saw to make 45 degree cuts to both ends of the braces.

Fitting-the-braces—14×14-square-pergola

Fit the braces to the pergola, as shown in the diagram. Drill pilot holes through the beams and insert 3 1/2″ screws to lock them into place. Drill pilot holes through the braces and insert 5 1/2″ screws into the posts. Before setting the braces, plumb the posts with a spirit level.

Fitting-the-top-slats

Fit the 1×2 slats to the roof of the pergola. You can adjust the size between the shade elements, so you let more or less light to the covered area.

Build-a-pergola

This free standing pergola is sturdy and it features an elegant design. You should select the location for the pergola as to add most value to your property.

How-to-build-a-14×14-pergola

Last but not least, you need to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood putty and then smooth the surface with sandpaper. Apply a few coats of paint or stain to enhance the look of the components and to protect them from the elements.

14×14-free-standing-pergola-plans

This 14×14 pergola is large enough for creating a really nice relaxation area in the backyard. With so much space you can fit a table, a few chairs and even a sofa. If you like my project, don’t forget to SHARE it on Facebook and Pinterest. See my other pergola plans, as well, for more building inspiration.

Thank you for reading our project about free 14×14 pergola plans and I recommend you to check out the rest of the projects. Don’t forget to LIKE and SHARE our projects with your friends, by using the social media widgets. SUBSCRIBE to be the first that gets our latest projects.

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