This Softwoods pergola, available from Bunnings by special order, provides a grand outdoor entertaining area.
The project
This all started with my wife wanting a pergola – she saw this one available from Bunnings via special order from Softwoods. I have better-than-average D.I.Y. skills, along with a garage full of tools that I enjoy using, so I thought I'd give it a go.
Both Bunnings and Softwoods were very helpful with plans to get a permit. This size – 6m x 3.8m – requires council approval.
The kit came with very strong footings – cyclone rated.
My backyard has a slight fall to it – 250mm over the length of the pergola. I would recommend putting down a slab first. It would have made the job a lot easier – I had to brace and support the posts while building.
The pergola came pre-cut, ready to paint and erect. But you have to be spot-on with all your measurements or it will not line up, so take your time.
The shiplap boards and the bunker lights came from my favorite supply store – Bunnings.
Concrete poured.
With the help of a mate the frame was up in one day. My brother helped me put the shiplap and iron on on another day. I mixed and poured the concrete footings with the help of my son. Thanks, Ned, Marcus and Peter.
How to build a pergola
Bunnings has a series of videos about how to build a pergola, which includes building the pergola frame and constructing the roof.
More pergola inspiration
Experienced Bunnings Workshop members DIYgals have built a brilliant pergola over a low-level deck, which you can see go up in a time-lapse video.
