This step by step diy woodworking project is about 12x20 free standing pergola plans. This rectangular wood pergola has a modern design and it is budget friendly, and it features 6 posts with a footprint base of 12 ft x 20 ft. This pergola is easy to build and it features a sturdy structure with 6×6 posts. Remember that you need to read the local building codes before starting the construction, so you comply with the legal requirements.
This pergola is perfect for adding some charm and shade to your backyard without breaking the bank. The robust 6×6 posts ensure a solid, durable structure that can stand up to the elements. With my detailed plans and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have this beautiful pergola up and ready to enjoy in no time.
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. This is a guest post from MyOutdoorPlans.com
Made from this plan
12×20 Pergola Plans – Step by Step
Building-a-12×20-pergola
Cut and Shopping Lists
A – 6 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 8′ long POSTS
B – 8 piece of 2×8 lumber -12’ long SUPPORT BEAMS
C – 14 pieces of 2×8 lumber – 14 ft long RAFTERS
D – 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 42 3/4” long, 8 pieces – 36” long BRACES
E – 22 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 12 ft long TOP SLATS
Tools
- Safety gloves, glasses, ladder, shovel, wheelbarrow
- Miter saw, jigsaw, circular saw, post hole digger
- Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
- Drill machinery and drill bits
Time
- One Week
How to build a 12×20 pergola
Laying-out-the-posts-large-pergola
Next, you need to layout the garden free standing 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. It is also important to select the location for the shed and to comply to the local codes, of any. Remove the vegetation layer before setting the posts into place.
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 14″ tubes, pour the concrete in the tube forms, set the anchors 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.
Rafters—12×20-pergola
Cut the support beams and the shade elements using the info from the diagram. Mark the cut lines to the beams and get the job done with a circular saw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper. You should notice that the components are made from different materials.
Decorative-ends-for-pergola-beams
Remember that you can make different style cuts to the ends of the rafters. You cannot be wrong because it’s all up to your skills and imagination. For this design shown in the diagram, use a jigsaw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.
Fitting-the-support-beams
Align the 2×8 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.
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.
Fitting-the-rafters
The next step of the project is to attach the 2×8 rafters to the pergola, as shown in the diagram. Fit the beams into place with rafter clips and 1 1/2″ structural screws. You can change the spacing between the rafters, according to how much light you want on your pergola.
Braces—12×20-pergola
Use 6×6 lumber for the diagonal braces. Use a miter saw to make 45 degree cuts to both ends of the braces. In addition, you can add some character to your project by making some curved cuts along the braces, using a jigsaw.
Fitting-the-braces-to-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.
The purpose of these braces is to add extra-strength to your structure and prevent lateral movement due to wind and other weather conditions.
Fitting-the-top-slats
Fit the 1×2 shade elements to the top of the square pergola and place them equally spaced. Drill pilot holes and insert 1 5/8″ screws to lock them tightly to the support beams. You can adjust the size between the shade elements, so you let more or less light to the covered area.
Cut a piece of wood at 12 5/8″ and use it as spacer, so you can get even gaps between the rafters. In addition, these slats will keep the rafters equally spaced.
How to build a 12×20 pergola
This large rectangular pergola features an elegant design and created the perfect context to have some outdoor fun. Therefore, there will be enough shade so you can hang out with family and friends during the weekends, as well as serving coffee on the chill summer mornings.
12×20 pergola plans – side view
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. Since you are here, you might as well take a look over the 10×12 pergola plans.
12×20-pergola-plans—overall-dimensions
This 12×20 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. See my other pergola plans, as well, for more building inspiration. See all my premium plans HERE. If you want to get the best of this plans, try the PREMIUM PLANS that comes with full Cut list, full Shopping list and cut layout diagrams, so you can get the job done easily saw save time.
If you want to download the plans. just click on the GET PDF PLANS button bellow.
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