12×16 Pavilion Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about a 12×16 backyard pavilion plans. I have designed this pavilion, so you can create a nice shelter in your own backyard. The frame of the pavilion is built from 6×6 beams, so you can create a sturdy structure. the roof has a 45 degree slope for draining the water and snow easily. Take a look over the rest of our 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 a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

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12×16 Pavilion Plans

Building-a-12×16-pavilion

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 96″ long POSTS
• B – 2 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 144″ long, 2 pieces – 216″ long TOP PLATES
• C – 2 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 48″ long, 8 pieces – 36″ long BRACES
• D – 2 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 64 1/2″ long, 1 piece – 216″ long TOP RIDGE

• 5 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 8′
• 3 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 18′
• 2 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 12′
• 4 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 6′
• concrete form tube
• post anchors
• beam to post connectors
• structural screws for connectors
• strong tie T
• 5 1/2″ screws, 3 1/2″ screws
• wood glue, stain/paint

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One day

Related

• PART 1: 12×16 Pavilion Plans
• PART 2: 12x16 Pavilion Roof Plans

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How to build a 12×16 pavilion

Laying-out-the-posts-for-pavilion

The first step of the project is to layout the posts for the 12×16 pavilion. Use batter boards and string to determine the location of the posts. Apply the 3-4-5 rule to every corner of the pavilion, so you make sure they are right angled. Moreover measure the diagonals and make sure they are equal.

Determining the location for the pavilion is essential, as you have to comply with the local building codes. Make sure the surface is level and remove the vegetation layer. You can pour the footings and then the slab, or you could fit the posts into concrete and then lay the concrete slab.

Anchoring the posts of the anchor

There are several ways to lock the posts into place. Therefore, you could dig 2-3′ holes in the ground and set the posts into concrete, or you could use post anchors. Use tube forms so that the footing will be really strong.

Fitting the posts

If you want to set the posts in concrete, then you need to use temporarily braces. Plumb the posts with a spirit level. Read the local building codes for finding the right depth of the footings. It is essential to set the footing at the right depth to avoid them being heaved by the Winter freeze/thaw cycle.

If you go for footings, you have to dig holes with a 14″ diameter. After digging the holes set the concrete forms and then fill them with concrete. Fit the anchors and align them with attention. After the concrete dries, fit the 6×6 posts and plumb them.

Building-the-top-rails

Use 6×6 lumber for the top rails. As you can easily notice in the diagram, you need to make notches to the top rails. Mark the areas and then use a circular saw to make parallel cuts. Remove the excess materials with a chisel and then smooth the recess with sandpaper. The long side rails are 216″ long (18′).

Fitting the side rails

Fit the side rails to the top of the posts. Make sure you align the edges flush and leave 12″ overhangs on both sides. Check if the corners are square and then drill pilot holes through the notches and insert 5 1/2″ screws, to secure the rails into place tightly.

Fitting the rails

Fit the front and back rails to the top of the frame. Align the edges with attention, making sure the corners are square. Drill pilot holes and insert 5 1/2″ screws to lock them together tightly.

Fitting the frame braces

Use 6×6 lumber for the frame braces. If you live in a windy area, these braces will add plenty of support to the frame, so you can create a sturdy and durable structure. Cut both ends of the 45 degrees and then secure them into place with 3 1/2″ screws.

Fitting-the-top-ridge-beam

Use 6×6 lumber for the top ridge and for its supports. Cut the beams at the right dimensions and then smooth the edges with sandpaper. Center the supports to the front and back top plates and then plumb them with a spirit level. Use hardware to secure the supports into place tightly.

Center the top ridge to the top of the supports and then lock it into place with screws or metal lumber connectors. As you can see in the plans, you should make 45 decorative cuts to both ends of the top ridge beam.

Fitting the braces

Fit the 6×6 braces to the top ridge of the outdoor pavilion. Make 45 degree cuts at both ends of the braces and then fit them to the supports and to the top ridge, as shown in the diagram. Use a spirit level to check if the supports are plumb and if the top ridge is horizontal. Drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ screws to secure the braces into place tightly.

12×16 Pavilion Plans – Side View

Last, but not least, you need to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood putty and then smooth the surface with sandpaper. Apply a few coats of paint or stain to enhance the look of the pavilion and to protect the components from decay.

12×16 Pavilion Plans

You need to take a look over PART 2 of the project, where I show you how to frame the roof for this 12×16 pavilion.

If you want to get PREMIUM PLANS for this project (different design with re-engineered structure), in a PDF format, please press GET PDF PLANS button bellow. Thank you for the support.

This woodworking project was about 12×16 outdoor pavilion 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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