16×16 Square Pergola – Free DIY Plans

This step by step diy project is about 16×16 large pergola plans. This is a relatively large pergola with a square shape and a base of 16 ft x 16 ft. Therefore, if you want to build a beautiful free standing pergola in your garden, make sure you check out my latest design. The roof of the pergola has a size of 18 ft x 18 ft. Take a look over the rest of my woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.

When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about one weekend. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

16×16 Square Pergola – Free DIY Plans

Building-a-16×16-pergola

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 8′ long POSTS
• B – 4 piece of 2×8 lumber – 12′ long BASE BEAMS
• C – 4 pieces of 2×8 lumber – 16′ long SUPPORT BEAMS
• D – 12 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 12′ long SHADE ELEMENTS
• E – 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 36″ long, 4 pieces – 46 1/4″ long BRACES
• F – 5 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 16′ long SLATS

• 6 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 8 ft
• 1 piece of 6×6 lumber – 12 ft
• 15 pieces of 2×12 lumber – 18 ft
• 14 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 18 ft
• 2 1/2″ screws
• 5 1/2″ screws
• 6×6 post anchor – 4 pieces
• post to beam connector 8 pieces
• rafter ties
• 1 1/2″ structural screws
• 8 pieces of 9″ carriage bolt
• wood filler , wood glue, stain/paint

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One week

Related

• Free pergola plans
• 12×24 Pergola plans
• 16×20 Pergola Plans

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How to build a 10×14 pergola

Laying out the posts for the pergola

The first step of the pergola project is to layout the 6×6 posts. Use batter boards and string to layout the location of the four posts. Apply the 3-4-5 rule to every corner and then measure the diagonals to make sure they are perfectly equal. You need to make adjustments until you get the desired result. As you can see in the image, this pergola has a 10×14 base.

Anchoring the posts of the anchor

There are a few ways to secure the 6×6 posts into place. You can set the posts in concrete or you can use adjustable anchors and pour footings. Dig the holes 3′ deep (or under the front line) and about 16″ in diameter. Compact a layer of gravel to the bottom of the holes and then fit the tube forms. Fill the forms with concrete, and install the anchors.

Smart tip: Read the local building codes, so you dig the holes at the appropriate depth. For this project, I will assume you will use post anchors, so if you set the posts into concrete, make sure you add 3′ to the posts size. Use temporary braces to lock the posts into place after plumbing them vertically.

Installing the posts

Check if the posts are level and user a circular saw to make corrections. Notice the temporarily braces that hold the posts plumb.

Beams support

Continue the diy pergola project by making the base beams. Use 2×12 lumber for these beams. You can add a lot of value to your pergola by making decorative cuts to both ends of the beams. Use a circular saw for the straight cuts and a jigsaw for the curved cuts. Smooth the edges with sandpaper thoroughly.

Fitting the support beams

Fit the beams to the posts and use a spirit level to make sure they are perfectly horizontal. Clamp the beams to the posts and drill pilot holes. Insert 9″ carriage bolts to lock everything with attention. Use washers on both beams. Insert at least 2 bolts for each joint.

Rafters

Use 2×12 lumber for the rafters. Make the notches to the beams, so you can fit them to the support beams. Make parallel cuts inside the marked areas and then remove the excess with a chisel and sandpaper.

Decorative ends for rafters

Use a jigsaw to make the decorative cuts to both ends of the rafters. Mark the pattern and then get the job done with a saw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.

Fitting-the-rafters-to-the-pergola

Fit the rafters to the square pergola, every 24″ on center. Secure the rafter with ties and 1 1/2″ structural screws.

Braces for the pergola

Use 6×6 lumber for the braces. Use a saw to make 45 degree cuts at both ends of the pieces. Use a jigsaw to make the curved cuts that will enhance the look of the backyard pergola. These braces will reinforce the structure of the pergola and make it much more stable to high winds.

Fitting the braces

Use a spirit level to plumb the posts and then fit the braces into place, as shown in the diagram. Drill pilot holes and insert 5 1/2″ screws to secure the braces into place tightly. Use at least 2 screws for each joint. Make sure there are no gaps between the components, when attaching the braces.

Fitting-the-top-slats

Fit the 2×2 slats to the top of the pergola. Place these slats equally spaced for a professional result. Make sure the overhangs are equal. Center the slats to the rafters and then drill pilot holes, before inserting the 2 1/2″ screws. If installed properly, these slats will keep the rafters equally spaced on the long run.

How to build a 16×16 pergola

This pergola has a stylish design so you shouldn’t be worried that it might not fit the design of your property. In addition, you should adjust the distance between the shade elements to create the amount of shade you desire. If you want a more beefy design, you could use 8×8 lumber for the posts.

16×16 pergola plans

Last but not least, you need to take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, fill the holes with wood putty and then smooth the surface with 120-220 grit sandpaper. Apply a few coats of paint or stain over the components, to enhance the look of the patio pergola and to protect the components from decay.

how-to-build-a-16×16-pergola

If you want to add charm and unique appeal to your garden, I recommend you to check out these plans. This pergola can be built by any person with basic woodworking skills and it is also very budget friendly. You can make a lot of adjustments to the design so it suits your tastes and needs.

Check out the rest of my pergola plans, as I have many designs and sizes you can choose from. In addition, I have over 1500 free woodworking plans on the blog, if you need more building inspiration. See HERE a list with all my free plans. If you want to get PREMIUM PLANS for this project, in a PDF format, please press GET PDF PLANS button bellow. Thank you for the support.

This woodworking project was about 16×16 pergola plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.

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