Take your landscaping inspiration from the sun

The heat of the summer sun might encourage you to look at backyard diy options you can add to increase your comfort. While you could put in a beautiful garden or install a playground for your kids, the solar rays might prevent you from making the most out of these items.

The solution: A pergola

Not only is this a beautiful addition to the garden that might even encourage you out into the great outdoors, this is easy to create, providing you have the right tools, that is!

Step one: Put in the posts

The first thing you need to do when you are constructing this item is to put in your vertical posts. The best way to do this is to measure your spaces and then dig your holes - make sure you have a wheelbarrow if you are planning on moving large amounts of earth!

You'll need around six holes to make your pergola balance.

These holes will need to be filled up with concrete to keep the wood stable. Hiring a concrete mixer suitable for small jobs such as the 2cu model might be the way to go, so you can mix your concrete on the job.

Allow for a generous amount of concrete per hole, as too much is better than too little.

Make sure you check the posts are vertical by doing a spirit level check - there's nothing worse than crooked posts. The concrete will take around 48 hours to set to attach a temporary brace during this period so the posts don't move out of place.

Step two: Beams

The next step is to cut your cross beams to fit and then shape the decorative ends. Pre-drilling the beams will help to prevent any splitting and it is important to make sure the drill you use has a slightly smaller diameter than the nails.

You might need help to get the beams up and attached with bolts.

Step three: Building the truss

The roof frame of your pergola is also known as the truss. It is best to build this on the ground before trying to attach it to the structure.

When you are calculating this, you should allow plenty of room for overhang. One of the most important steps you can take is to ensure the boards that cross at the centreline are even and the same length. 

You need to attach this carefully so you don't hurt yourself or damage the structure itself. Ensure it is correctly positioned before you stat nailing.

Completely cover the roof or encourage vines to grow in a way that covers the roof, creating plenty of shade for your family.