Measure your space.
Decide how you’ll use your pergola: dining, lounging, or both.
Measure your available space, allowing for furniture and room to walk comfortably.
Check the finished outside dimensions of your planned build. Lumber lengths alone don’t represent the full footprint.
Plan within our recommended maximum vertical post height of 8 ft and maximum span of 12 ft per section.
Match your kit and lumber.
Choose your pergola configuration and bracket size.
Check the lumber requirements for your selected kit, including quantities and lengths.
For standard dressed lumber brackets, confirm the actual dressed dimensions:
4x4: 3.5” × 3.5”
6x6: 5.5” × 5.5”
Bring a bracket when purchasing your lumber to check the fit. Select dry, straight lumber.
For angled builds, use the calculator on the corresponding product listing to determine the required lumber lengths.
Prepare for your build.
Review your kit contents and assembly instructions.
Purchase your lumber and anchoring hardware separately. Choose anchoring hardware appropriate for your mounting surface.
Check applicable local permit, building code, and HOA requirements before building.
Gather the tools listed in your assembly guide, including a drill, measuring tape, and ladders as required.
Arrange the number of people and any lifting equipment recommended in your kit’s instructions.
Review installation and care instructions for any SHADE SAILS, rafters, or privacy accents.
Plan your project budget.
Pergola bracket kit
Lumber for the frame and any rafters or privacy accents
Anchoring hardware
Tools or equipment you need to purchase or rent
Wood finish and application supplies, if desired
Accessories and applicable taxes
Ready to build?
Measure and check your materials before making cuts.
Follow your selected kit’s assembly and anchoring instructions throughout the build.