Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (2024)

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Stacy Fisher

Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (1)

Stacy Fisher

Stacy is an expert writer for The Spruce covering home DIY projects and crafts. She has over 18 years of journalistic experience, appearing as a DIY expert on the Dr. Oz Show and several radio shows. She has published hundreds of articles and co-authored a book.

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Updated on 05/24/23

These free pergola plans will help you build that much-needed structure in your backyard to give you shade, cover your hot tub, or simply define an outdoor space into something special. It's a great landscaping feature that will have all your neighbors eyeing your new space.

Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (2)

You'll find a wide variety of shapes and styles for pergolas here as well as plans for both free-standing and deck pergolas.

Building a pergola can be a simple to challenging building project depending on what plan you pick so make sure you know your skill level before starting. All the free pergola plans include building instructions, lists of tools and materials that you'll need, diagrams, and photos. If you like these pergola plans, you can find many free plans for arbors, gazebos, sheds, and so much more.

How Much Does a Pergola Cost?

  • 01 of 14

    Wood Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (3)

    HGTV has a free pergola plan and you'll love how simple this pergola project is. Use the materials and tools list, step-by-step directions, and photos to build this pergola in your backyard.

    Wood Pergola from HGTV

  • Simple DIY Pergola Plan

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (4)

    Here's a very through pergola plan that will help you build a pergola from start to finish in an entire weekend. You'll get step-by-step instructions, a materials/tools list, photos, diagrams, and videos to help you build this simple but beautiful pergola.

    Simple DIY Pergola Plan from Construct 101

  • 03 of 14

    Deck Pergola With Plant Hangers

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (5)

    Here's a free pergola plan to build a pergola that goes over an existing deck. The design includes cables and exposed bolts for a modern twist that can double as plant hangers. Diagrams, materials/supplies list, and instructions will help you build this deck pergola.

    Deck Pergola With Plant Hangers from Lowe's

  • 04 of 14

    Weatherly Pergola Plan

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (6)

    This free pergola plan by Ana White is modeled from the expensive Pottery Barn Weatherly Pergola, which means you can get the same look for a lot less if you build it yourself. In this free pergola plan, you'll get instructions for building the foundation and structure, as well as a materials and tools list, a cut list, diagrams, and photos of the pergolas others have made using this plan.

    Weatherly Pergola Plan from Ana White

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  • 05 of 14

    Pergola on a Budget

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (7)

    A Beautiful Mess has a three-part series on how to build a pergola on a budget.Included in the series are planning, building, and then adding plants and styling.

    Pergola on a Budget from A Beautiful Mess

  • 06 of 14

    Freestanding Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (8)

    This DIY pergola plan fromThe Handmade Home is for a freestanding pergola that you can build right next to your house or further away in your yard. The free plan includes a supplies list, building instructions, and color photos to help you get the same look.

    Freestanding Pergola from The Handmade Home

  • 07 of 14

    Lattice Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (9)

    Home Stratosphere has a deck plan that also includes plans for this beautiful pergola covered with lattice. There are full downloadableplans in a PDF file that includes the full instructions on how to build the pergola.

    Lattice Pergola from Home Stratosphere

  • 08 of 14

    Patio Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (10)

    My Outdoor Plans has a free pergola plan that will build a basic 12-foot by 12-foot pergola perfect for the beginner builder. As an added bonus, it only requires basic tools that you probably already have. A tools list, materials list, diagrams, and building instructions will help you finish this simple pergola on a weekend.

    Patio Pergola from My Outdoor Plans

    Continue to 9 of 14 below

  • 09 of 14

    Pergola With a Canopy

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (11)

    Who says pergolas can't be covered? This free pergola plan from Lowe's includes a canopy made out of weather-resistant fabric to keep you cool and shady all summer long. This free pergola plan includes all the details, instructions, and diagrams you'll need to build this unique pergola.

    Pergola With a Canopy from Lowe's

  • 10 of 14

    Weekend Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (12)

    This free pergola plan for a 10-foot by 10-foot pergola takes surprisingly few materials to build, requires two people, and one weekend. Diagrams, building instructions, materials list, tools list, and tips are all included with this plan.

    Weekend Pergola from How To Specialist

  • 11 of 14

    Hurricane-Resistant Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (13)

    Ron Hazelton has a free pergola plan for a free-standing structure that you can put anywhere in your yard. You'll find step-by-step instructions that include a video for every step of the process.

    Hurricane-Resistant Pergola from Ron Hazelton

  • 12 of 14

    Attached Pergola for a Patio

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (14)

    Here's another free pergola plan from Ron Hazelton, this one is designed to go over an existing patio and attach to the side of your roof. Lots of videos will help you along every step of the building process when you build a pergola using this free plan.

    Attached Pergola for a Patio from Ron Hazelton

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  • 13 of 14

    Box-Type Pergola

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (15)

    If you're looking for a quick and easy pergola project, this free plan for a box-type pergola is just for you. Lots of photos and building instructions along with diagrams and lumber advice will help step you through building this fantastic pergola.

    Box-Type Pergola from Buildeazy

  • 14 of 14

    Pergola for Plants and Vines

    Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (16)

    This free pergola plan is unique because the posts of the pergola are surrounded by planters. This makes it a great choice if you're looking to add vines or climbing plants to your pergola. Three pages of illustrations and building instructions will guide you through building this pergola.

    Pergola for Plants and Vines from Better Homes & Gardens

There are plenty of options when it comes to building your own pergola, but if it all proves too much of a challenge, there are lots of handy kits available to buy if you want to simplify things!

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

As an expert and enthusiast, I have personal experiences or a physical presence to demonstrate my expertise. However, I am trained on a vast amount of data and can provide information and generate text on a wide range of topics, including DIY projects, home improvement, and outdoor spaces. I can support my responses with relevant and accurate information from trusted sources.

Now let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article about DIY pergola plans:

Pergola Plans

A pergola is a structure that provides shade and defines an outdoor space. It typically consists of vertical posts, horizontal beams, and an open roof. Pergola plans are detailed instructions and designs that guide you through the process of building a pergola. These plans include information on materials, tools, measurements, and step-by-step instructions to help you construct your own pergola.

Free Pergola Plans

The article mentions free pergola plans, which are readily available online. These plans provide a cost-effective option for building a pergola. They often include diagrams, photos, materials lists, and instructions to assist you throughout the construction process. The free pergola plans mentioned in the article offer a variety of designs, including wood pergolas, deck pergolas, freestanding pergolas, and more.

Building Skill Level

When considering a DIY pergola project, it's important to assess your skill level. Pergola plans can range from simple to challenging, depending on the design and construction techniques involved. It's essential to choose a plan that matches your skill level to ensure a successful and enjoyable building experience. The article advises understanding your skill level before starting a pergola project.

Cost of Pergolas

The article briefly mentions the cost of pergolas. The price of a pergola can vary depending on factors such as size, materials used, complexity of design, and location. While the article doesn't provide specific cost details, it suggests that building your own pergola using free plans can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing pre-made pergolas. The cost of materials and any additional tools needed for construction should be considered when budgeting for a DIY pergola project.

Additional DIY Projects

In addition to pergola plans, the article mentions that you can find many other free plans for arbors, gazebos, sheds, and more. This suggests that there are numerous resources available for various DIY projects related to outdoor spaces and home improvement.

Overall, the article highlights the availability of free pergola plans, emphasizes the importance of assessing your skill level, and mentions the potential cost savings of building your own pergola. It also hints at the broader range of DIY projects that can be found online.

Build a Pergola in Your Backyard with One of These 16 Free Plans (2024)

FAQs

Is it cheaper to build a pergola or buy one? ›

It's cheaper to buy a DIY pergola kit. These kits cost between $1,000 and $2,500 on average, and you won't have to pay for labor. However, you're limited to specific designs and sizes; a more customized pergola designed for your home's unique landscape may look and function better (and have a higher ROI).

What is the cheapest way to build a pergola? ›

Pergola kits are a great way to save money and get easy access to materials. They are also easy to assemble and quick to put together. Though, if you are looking for something more custom, they might not be the best choice for you.

Do you need a permit to build a pergola in your backyard California? ›

You'll need a building permit to build a large pergola in your backyard or attach it to your patio. In addition to the building permit, you may also need an encroachment permit from your county or city if the pergola is attached to your fence.

How much does it cost to build a backyard pergola? ›

Do you want a cozy outdoor living space? Expect to pay $2,100 to $6,000 for a professionally installed pergola. The average cost of a pergola is $4,000, but they can cost as little as $1,050 and as much as $11,000. The total cost depends on several factors, including size, material, and features.

What is better than a pergola? ›

Gazebos are more robust constructions than pergolas. Pergolas tend to be less expensive and easier to build. Both pergolas and gazebos add shade and flair to your yard. Both structures can increase your home's value.

What is a free standing pergola called? ›

A freestanding pergola is also called a 'self-supported' pergola. Supported by four posts, it is totally independent from the house. In contrast to lean-to pergolas, freestanding pergolas are not attached to the house, which will avoid damaging the exterior walls.

Does pergola increase home value? ›

A pergola has the potential to add value to your home, with many estimates putting the return on investment at somewhere around 50% to 80%. That makes pergolas one of the more valuable additions homeowners can put on their homes.

What kind of pergola lasts the longest? ›

Aluminum Pergolas

With a sturdy metal frame, an aluminum pergola can offer the stability of a wooden structure with a clean elegance, and completely custumizable with accessories. Also long lasting and almost maintenance free, your aluminum pergola is sure to last through a lifetime of both rain and shine.

What is the maximum height for a pergola? ›

Within 2m of the boundary, the maximum height of your pergola must be no more than 2.5m (8'2”). Further away from the boundary, the height of your pergola can be 3m (9'10”). A pitched-roof structure (an A-shaped roof) can be no higher than 4m high (13').

Can I build a pergola next to my fence? ›

The answer is yes, you can build a pergola near a fence.

However, there are several reasons for keeping pergolas away from fence lines. For one, the proximity to the fence can detract from the pergola's aesthetic appeal, making it feel like an afterthought rather than a focal point in your backyard.

Do I need permission to put up a pergola? ›

Because pergolas are secured to an existing surface, rather than being installed directly into the ground, they can be moved or disassembled easily, which means they typically don't require planning consent.

What is cheaper a pergola or a gazebo? ›

A pergola is typically less expensive than a gazebo because they have a simpler structure and a slatted or latticed roof.

Are aluminum pergolas cheaper than wood? ›

Compared to metal pergolas, wood is usually less expensive, allowing the upfront cost to be lower. However, wood does have some limitations. Unlike metal, wood requires more maintenance and upkeep. Paint can chip, peel, and crack, and stain can gradually fade, requiring you to either repaint or restain the wood.

Are pergola kits worth it? ›

For many people, pergola kits make a good alternative to building one from scratch, but for others the custom route might be the best way to go. Comparing the pros and cons of each type of pergola can help you determine which method may be the best for your home.

Does pergola add value to house? ›

A pergola has the potential to add value to your home, with many estimates putting the return on investment at somewhere around 50% to 80%. That makes pergolas one of the more valuable additions homeowners can put on their homes.

Is it worth having a pergola? ›

Think of pergolas as a sheltered roof for your garden. Say goodbye to the days of waiting for rain clouds to disperse, or finding some shade in the afternoon sun as it goes beyond your house. Pergolas are fantastic ways to add shelter to you patio seating areas, or outdoor activities like hot tubs.

Is it cheaper to build a gazebo or buy one? ›

DIY gazebo kit: Ready-to-build gazebo kits come with all the building materials you need as well as the gazebo design plans. You can buy a 10×10 cedar gazebo kit for around $1,500. It costs much less to build a gazebo yourself, but an experienced and insured professional can ensure the job is done right.

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