Cheap Pergola – Free DIY Plans

This step by step diy project is about 8×8 cheap pergola plans. I have designed this really simple pergola, so you can build a nice shaded area, where you can serve table or read a good book. This pergola is built using just 2x4s, so you can keep the costs really down. 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 a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

Cheap Pergola – Free DIY Plans

Building-a-8×8-pergola

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 8 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 96′ long, 12 pieces – 16″ long POSTS
• B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 120′ long SUPPORT BEAMS
• C – 11 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 120″ long SHADE ELEMENTS

• 10 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8′
• 13 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 10′
• 2 1/2″ screws
• 4 1/2″ screws
• tube form
• rafter ties
• 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 weekend

Related

• Free pergola plans
• 12×24 Pergola plans
• 14×14 Pergola Plans

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How to build a 8×8 simple pergola plans

Building-the-posts

The first step of the project is to build the posts for the pergola. Use 2×4 lumber for the components and cut them at the right size, as shown in the diagram. Drill pilot holes through the 2×4 slats and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the blockings. Add glue to the joints and align the edges flush.

Laying out the posts

Next, you need to layout the posts. Use batter boards and string to layout the location of the 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.

Fitting the posts

Dig the holes 3′ deep (or under the front line) and about 12-16″ in diameter. Compact a layer of gravel to the bottom of the holes and then fit the tube forms. Fit the posts, align them and plumb them with a spirit level. Fill the forms with concrete, while the posts are locked into place with temporarily braces. If you use anchors, you need to align and set them into concrete. Fit the posts after the concrete dries, using lag screw.

Smart tip: Read the local building codes, so you dig the holes at the appropriate depth.

Fitting the support beams

Fit the 2×4 support beams to the top of the posts. Center the beams to the posts and then lock them into place with 2 1/2″ screws, from both sides. Drill pilot holes through the 2×4 posts, before inserting the screws, to prevent the wood from splitting.

Fitting-the-rafters-to-pergola

The next step of the project is to attach the 2×4 rafters to the top of the pergola. Place the rafters equally spaced, as shown in the diagram. You can reduce or increase the gap between the rafters, for a professional result. Use rafter ties to secure the shade elements into place. Alternatively, you could secure them with screws, after drilling pilot holes.

Cheap 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. You can also fit braces, if you live in a windy area. Apply a few coats of paint or stain over the components, to enhance the look of the pergola and to protect the components from decay.

Cheap Pergola – Free DIY Plans

This pergola provides plenty of space for setting several chairs, an outdoor sofa and an outdoor table. You can even cover the pergola of you want to obtain even more shade, especially during the hot summer days. Check out the rest of my pergola plans, as I have many designed and sizes you can choose from.

This woodworking project was about 8×8 simple 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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