How to Build a Pergola Rafter
The rafters of a pergola are not the support beams of the structure, but rather the wooden pieces attached high atop the support beams to create shading and a base for trellising plants. Making them is just a portion of the entire project. You can obtain individual flair by finishing off the ends of the rafters, called "tails," with creative cuts. Rafter tail templates are easy to find at lumberyards or online. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Wood, 2-by-6 foot or 2-by-8 foot pieces, number of pieces dependent upon pergola size
- Measuring tape
- Hand saw
- Jigsaw
- Power drill
- Level
- Clamp
- 3-inch galvanized screws
- Sandpaper
- Safety glasses
Instructions
-
-
1
Cut wood into 2-by-6 foot or 2-by-8 foot pieces with either a hand saw or have them cut at the lumberyard. Attach rafters every 16 to 24 inches. Extend rafters off the support beams by 12 inches on each side.
-
2
Sketch out a decorative "tail" at the two ends of each piece of wood using a template. Cut with either a hand or a jigsaw. Smooth down any rough edges with sandpaper. Protect eyes from small shards of wood by wearing safety glasses.
-
-
3
Attach the finished rafters perpendicularly to the support beams by first clamping into place. Use a level to ascertain if each rafter is straight or "plumb." Using a power drill, screw four 3-inch galvanized steel screws through each rafter where it connects to a support beam.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Homeowners sometime choose Ipe, a South American hardwood, as their wood choice due to its ability to turn dark red in the rain.
Double-check with local housing authorities on any required building permits.
References
- Photo Credit Pergola image by Emmy from Fotolia.com
