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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.
There's also plenty more inspiration for your outdoor area in our Top 10 most popular decking projects and Top 10 most popular outdoor projects.
Let us know if you need a hand with your project – we're here to help.
