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Can You Build Your Own Pergola?

As you would expect from timber suppliers, we have talked to people about a lot of timber projects. We all know that timber decking, timber fencing and timber flooring are the more common projects in Brisbane and Sydney. But lately, there is one that is becoming more popular: the DIY pergola.

A great combination that can increase your living space is to build a low deck with a pergola as your roof. We love our space and we love the outdoors; what better way to increase your living space than a great alfresco living area?

Alfresco living areas are far less expensive to build than it is to add on to your home. They let you enjoy the fresh air while the roof provides plenty of shade. They are less expensive because they don’t need nearly the structural support that part of your house needs. There are no walls to build or hold up.

Here is a short version of what it will take to build a low deck with a pergola over it.

Site Preparation

Remove debris and vegetation. Then measure and peg out the deck area.

Concrete Footings

Use stringlines to mark the location of your stump posts. Use a post hole digger to make holes 400mm square and 600mm deep. Mix your cement with one part cement, two parts fine-grain sand and four parts gravel. Put in 100mm gravel to allow for drainage and pour in the concrete.

Building the Deck

We are fans of using Merbau for timber decking. It is durable and offers natural protection from termites and other pests. Many of our customers say there is nothing like the aesthetic of a Merbau deck. We agree.

The steps to building the deck are as follows. Add the bearers. Position the stumps and fasten the joists. Attach the end trimmers and lay the decking. Then, trim the overhang and fit the fascia.

Here are a few professional tips to get it right. Make sure there is some area around and under the deck for ventilation and access. We recommend Merbau but make sure whatever species you use is right for your zoning. Check with your council to make sure. Use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanised hardware: screws, bolts, nails and framing anchors.

If you get it all right, you should have a deck that is about one step off of the ground.

Building Your Pergola

We won’t go into detail here but we do want to give you an idea of what you need to do. Refer to the Handyman website or talk to one of our world class customer service people for more information.

First, position the front posts. Then set the pergola posts. Next, cut the posts, then house and notch the posts. House the intermediate posts and prepare the beam ends. Then overlap the beams. Next, position the end rafters, secure the rafters and fit the other rafters. Next, secure the battens.

Are You Ready to Build Your Pergola and Timber Deck Yet?

This wasn’t meant to be comprehensive instructions to building your DIY pergola and timber deck. We just wanted to give you an idea of how much work you are going to do. If you love DIY projects, this may be easy for you. If you are fairly new at DIY, it may be a bit more difficult.

If you’re ready to tackle your first project or your next project, Narangba Timbers is the place to go for your timber. We have a wide selection of high-quality timber for decking, pergolas and other projects, all at the lowest prices. They can help you out with exactly what you need to make any project turn out perfect.

Think of how great it will feel to enjoy a spring afternoon on the weekend, sitting on your deck under your pergola, enjoying some BBQ and your favourite beverages, knowing that you did it all yourself.

To talk to customer service or to learn more, call us today on 1300 477 024.