How to Build a Pergola (Step-by-Step Guide and Best Materials)

Updating your backyard in Phoenix is an exciting project to take on! Perhaps you’ve recently looked outside and thought something was missing. Even if you have gorgeous landscaping, maybe a pool so you can cool off in the arid Phoenix, Arizona climate, a structure could tie it all together.  

What kind of structure, you ask? There are definitely a few different types to choose from, and it’s easy to get them confused, but the best solution could be a pergola. It’s an easy option, but by no means single-faceted. For example, looking up how to build a pergola will yield results ranging from simple to complex designs. 

Key Takeaways

• Structure Types: Choose between freestanding focal points or home-attached add-ons with open or closed roof designs.
• Best Materials: For the Phoenix climate, Alumawood™, Cedar, and Redwood are the top choices for durability and low maintenance.
• Professional Process: Quality builds involve 3D rendering, site evaluation, and secure concrete footings for stability.
• Climate Consideration: In Arizona, closed or pitched roofs offer essential protection from the sun and seasonal rain runoff.

WHY QUALITY MATTERS WHEN BUILDING A PERGOLA

Hiring a quality contractor is the difference between a pergola that looks great for a season and one that performs for years. Reputable, qualified professionals use materials and build methods designed to complement and endure the Phoenix, Arizona climate. When quality is skipped, you may end up repairing or replacing the structure far sooner than planned.

What Is a Pergola?

A pergola is a backyard feature that has four posts and a roof. It doesn’t have walls and isn’t typically meant to be a full shelter, but rather an enhancing structure. Many people have one built near a pool to create a cozy environment for cooking or relaxing. Others make them a literal part of the home, built onto their dwelling to create an outside area for entertaining. 

Despite its simple description, a pergola can actually be elaborate and add a touch of luxury to a backyard. It all depends on which plans you decide on when building a pergola. That’s where an expert is crucial. They can help you review plans, determine which type is best-suited for your home and enact them to your specs. 

Types of Pergolas

When you’re looking up how to build a pergola, you’re probably wondering if there are different types. The answer is, yes! While it’s often compared to a ramada or an arbor, it’s actually quite different. There are variations of the structure, though the basics remain the same.

OPEN OR CLOSED ROOF

The most common variation concerns the roof. You can choose to have an open or closed roof on your pergola. Despite its name, an open-roofed design isn’t fully unobstructed.

Typically it’ll have slats or a lattice design that offers some shade, though this isn’t its main purpose.

Most people add a pergola to upgrade their yards, boost their home’s value, or more importantly to add a bit of privacy or shelter. 

A closed-roof design is one that offers full shade or protection from the elements. You can also have one with a pitched roof for water runoff, which leads to less wear from the elements.

FREESTANDING OR ADD-ON

The other choice you have when it comes to building a pergola in Phoenix is whether you want it to be freestanding or an add-on to your home.

If you have a large backyard, a freestanding one can help tie the space together, creating a focal point around which to landscape.

What to Expect when Building a Pergola

In order to get started with your pergola build, you’ll need to contact our landscaping professionals. Our expertise is unmatched, and our long list of repeat clients proves we’re the ones for the job. 

Our extensive process is thorough for a reason. We want to make sure you get the best results and the absolute vision you dream of when you picture your backyard. Our process consists of the following: 

• We’ll initiate a phone call so we can learn about what you envision for your pergola. 
• You’ll browse through our photo galleries, pinpointing features you like.
• An in-person meet helps us determine how to best proceed. Our design expert will evaluate the landscaping you have. 
• From there, our team will create a 3D rendering or a CAD drawing that’s fully customized to your specs. 
• An in-office meeting lasting approximately 30 to 60 minutes will take place, so we can go through the design, and the steps needed to achieve it. We’ll also note adjustments, and hammer out the important details such as timelines and budgeting. 
• If changes are necessary, we’ll meet once more in our office to go over the final design and details such as colors, materials, and price breakdown. Then, you’ll sign the contract to get the work underway. 
• A scale drawing of the work plan is created and we’ll set up a start date. 
• Construction begins and you marvel at the changes your landscape is undergoing. 
• After the construction is complete, we’ll go over the work with you to ensure you’re 100% satisfied. We’ll also discuss any maintenance requirements you’ll need to employ to keep your pergola in great shape. 
• When all’s said and done, you’ll have a beautiful relaxing/entertaining space that you can proudly show off to your friends and family. 

While it may seem intensive, you’ll understand exactly why when you’re elated with the project turnout. 

How to Find a Great Contractor

When shopping for a contractor, not just anyone will do. The last thing you want to do is trust your backyard build to someone you’re unsure of. Instead, take the time to do your research and hire a reputable company. How do you determine reputability? Ask friends or family who’ve had similar work done for recommendations. In the absence of personal recommendations, look to expert resources such as Angie’s List, or local Phoenix company directories. 

It’s important not to hire the first company you speak with. Instead, speak to a few different contractors or companies. Meet with and request quotes from each one, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask about the process, the timeline, and the partners the company associates with for completing projects. 

Our team of experts at Straightline has you covered. We excel at bringing your visions to life and transforming your backyard into an oasis. Contact us by phone, email, or fill out our online form to get started today — you won’t be sorry!

It also complements a pool — you can create a seating area underneath to relax before and after swimming. If you have a smaller yard or want to simply create an entertainment space, then an extension of the home makes the most sense.

There’s one more consideration you’ll want to keep in mind, and that brings us to the next question.

Best Pergola Materials

The materials you choose for your pergola make a significant impact. With Arizona’s semi-arid climate, you’ll want materials that stand up to the elements. The two most common are wood and aluminum. 

There are, of course, other material options you can choose to build a pergola, such as concrete, which makes for a solid foundation when used for the columns. This also adds a decorative element, which will have everyone talking about your new addition.

Steps to Take Before Building a Pergola

Before you get started with your build, there are a few steps you need to take. 

• Confirm any HOA requirements and check local permitting rules for your specific location.
• Mark underground utilities before any digging (call 811) and verify the build site is clear.
• Decide where you want to build a pergola, including sun exposure, drainage, and access from your home.
• Determine the overall aesthetic you’re looking for. You can do this in a number of ways. You can browse Pinterest boards, get inspiration from home and garden magazines, or even sketch your own design. This gives you something to show the contractors and creates a baseline for what will become your structure.
• Arrange any help you may need for planning decisions and on-site access during the build.
• Reach out to the contractor of your choice and get building!

The Process OF Building A Custom Pergola

There’s a bit of work to be done when it comes to the process of building your pergola. First your landscapers will come out and measure the area where you want the structure placed. There are different steps for a freestanding unit vs. an add-on.

To ensure a stable build for a freestanding unit, the following site preparation is required:

• Surface Leveling: Contractors flatten the landscape to prevent structural leaning.
• Flooring Options: While concrete or wood decks offer maximum stability, grass or decorative brick are also viable.
• Foundation: Columns are secured in deep holes filled with concrete footers to prevent toppling.

Before construction begins, confirm any applicable HOA requirements and local building codes, and secure any permits if needed. For safety, plan for at least a two-person lift when setting posts, beams, and rafters, and use proper temporary bracing throughout the build.

The columns need to be inserted into the ground to keep the unit from toppling over. The landscapers will dig holes to fit the footers and fill it in with concrete, to keep the posts secure. Then the rest is built on this foundation. The process can take several days or weeks, depending on how elaborate the structure is.

Wondering how much your dream landscape with a pergola might cost? Try our Budget Calculator.

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