How do I design my Pole Pergola?
[The following is an example taken from an email exchange.]
There are many ways to configure the pole structure. I will present just one idea for now and you can review and make changes from this starting point, to arrive at what would work best for you.
Pergola Made of Redwood Poles
If we are to cover a total roof space of up to 12′ 5″ x 28′ 5″ or slightly smaller, we will need at least a 6-post structure. For example, we can build a 6-post version of the 8-post pole structure pictured at right. If you don’t like this one, just let us know what you have in mind. I mention this one because it’s popular and simple. We place 6 poles in the ground and then run roof support poles between them along the long length (28′ 5″). The 6 post poles should be at least 8″ in diameter. The roof support poles can be a bit smaller, maybe 7″ in diameter. Once this basic roof structure is up, you can add the “roof” poles in just about any configuration that pleases you. From a more open design as shown in the photo to a more closed design with smaller poles if you prefer.
Please take a look at the several pole pergolas on our site and let us know if any of them are in the direction of what you’d like to accomplish. We can assemble and install the pole pergola for you because you are here in California. We will cut all the posts and make the necessary notching on site. We will also do the necessary concrete work for the posts.
The pole cost is reasonable. If we build the basic structure of the photo with 6 posts and keep the pole spacing of the roof at roughly 3 feet on center, you will need:
- 6 post poles – 12 ft long, 7” minimum diameter
- 4 roof support poles – 14 ft long, 7” minimum diameter
- 9 roof poles – 14 ft long (trimmed to 12’ 5”), 5” minimum diameter
- 10 roof timber poles (highest roof level of photo above) – 14 ft long (2 poles will be spliced together at center to cover the 28’ span—this won’t be visible), 3.5” minimum diameter
Tags: pole pergola
