How to build a pergola for outdoor kitchen?

NFI75

Hi team. I’m at the planning phase and wanted to see if my idea has any merit before I go down the engineers and permits path. I want to build an undercover area for my bbqs and pizza oven. Total size will be 3900 x 3300 x 2700. What I want to know is can I have a single span off 3900 across the front. It will come off the brick wall and I was thinking a ledger off the brick wall secured with chemset and bolts and a beam off 190 x 45 supported by either a 100 x 100 posts and I’m just trying to make the front as open as possible and not have extra posts if possible. 

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @NFI75. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about building a pergola.

What you’re proposing is definitely possible, but there are a few important things to consider. A single 3.9-metre span across the front is achievable, but the timber size required to carry the load will need to be quite substantial. A standard 190 x 45 beam is unlikely to span that distance safely without sagging or deflection, especially if you are planning any roofing material on top.

Attaching a ledger directly to a single brick wall is generally not recommended, as a single brick facade won’t have the strength to reliably carry the load on its own. There are ways to work around this, such as installing posts along the wall to support the rear beam, which will transfer the load to the ground rather than relying solely on the brick.

An engineer can specify the exact sizes and types of timber needed for your span and the loads from roofing or cladding. This will also ensure your pergola is structurally sound, safe, and compliant with building regulations. Your concept is solid, but some additional support at the rear will likely be necessary if you want to keep the front as open as possible.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell