{"id":36,"date":"2025-11-27T19:20:59","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T19:20:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/winnipegfencepros.com\/blog\/?p=36"},"modified":"2025-12-19T17:31:31","modified_gmt":"2025-12-19T17:31:31","slug":"how-to-build-a-long-lasting-pergola","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.winnipegfencepros.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-long-lasting-pergola\/","title":{"rendered":"How to build a long lasting Pergola?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Building a <strong>long-lasting pergola<\/strong> comes down to three things:<br><strong>(1) structural strength<\/strong>, <strong>(2) weather-resistant materials<\/strong>, and <strong>(3) proper installation\/maintenance<\/strong>.<br>Here\u2019s a professional, builder-grade guide you can follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winnipegfencepros.com\/pergolas.html\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"472\" src=\"https:\/\/winnipegfencepros.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pergola5.jpg\" alt=\"amazing low cost pergolas\" class=\"wp-image-61\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.winnipegfencepros.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pergola5.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.winnipegfencepros.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pergola5-300x221.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 1. Plan the Structure Correctly<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decide the purpose<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shade? Dining? Hot tub cover? Garden feature?<br>Purpose determines size, spacing, and materials.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Determine size &amp; layout<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Standard sizes: 10\u00d710, 12\u00d712, 12\u00d716, 14\u00d720<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Space posts evenly (typically 6\u20138 ft apart)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check property lines and local building codes<br>(Some areas require permits if attached to the house or over a certain height.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 2. Choose Long-Lasting Materials<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best woods (natural durability)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cedar<\/strong> \u2013 naturally rot &amp; insect resistant<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Redwood<\/strong> \u2013 premium, very long-lasting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pressure-treated pine<\/strong> \u2013 strong &amp; economical (use for posts)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Douglas fir<\/strong> (when properly sealed)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best non-wood materials<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Steel pergolas<\/strong> \u2013 extremely strong, 30\u201350+ year lifespan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aluminum<\/strong> \u2013 won\u2019t rust, lightweight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vinyl<\/strong> \u2013 low maintenance, long life (needs reinforcement for spans)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Composite<\/strong> \u2013 looks like wood, lasts decades<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong><br>If you want the longest lifespan with low care \u2192 <strong>steel or aluminum frame + composite rafters<\/strong> is unbeatable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 3. The Most Important Factor: Strong Posts + Deep Footings<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Post materials<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>6\u00d76 posts<\/strong> (NOT 4\u00d74) for long-term stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pressure-treated or cedar; steel posts are ideal if budget allows.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Footing requirements<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Depth: <strong>30&#8243;\u201348&#8243;<\/strong> or <strong>below frost line<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Width: <strong>12&#8243;\u201318&#8243;<\/strong> depending on pergola size<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add <strong>gravel<\/strong> at bottom for drainage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set posts in <strong>concrete<\/strong> or use <strong>post anchors on concrete piers<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Post setting options<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Concrete around the post<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strong, but wood must not sit in water<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leave 2\u20133 inches of concrete above grade, sloped for drainage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Concrete pier + metal post bracket<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Best long-term method<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeps wood off the ground \u2192 no rot<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 4. Build the Frame Properly<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beams (support the rafters)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For most pergolas: double <strong>2\u00d78<\/strong>, <strong>2\u00d710<\/strong>, or <strong>2\u00d712<\/strong> beams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cantilever (overhang): typically 12&#8243;\u201324&#8243;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rafters<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Common size: <strong>2\u00d76<\/strong> or <strong>2\u00d78<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spacing: <strong>12&#8243;\u201324&#8243; apart<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add <strong>shade slats<\/strong> perpendicular to rafters for more cover:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>1\u00d72, 1\u00d73, or 2\u00d72 boards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Space 6\u201312 inches depending on shade preference<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hardware<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Galvanized or <strong>stainless steel<\/strong> screws<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Structural lag bolts or carriage bolts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exterior metal brackets (Simpson Strong-Tie)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid nails\u2014screws + bolts last far longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 5. Protect the Wood for Maximum Lifespan<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>If using wood<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Apply high-quality <strong>oil-based exterior stain<\/strong> or <strong>sealer<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reapply every:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>2\u20133 years (harsh climates)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>3\u20135 years (mild climates)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stain all sides of boards <em>before assembly<\/em> if possible<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep ends sealed\u2014end grain absorbs water fastest<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>If using metal or composite<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Minimal maintenance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rinse occasionally and inspect for loose hardware<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 6. Design for Durability<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Keep all wood off the ground<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wood touching soil = guaranteed early rot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure minimum 1\u20132&#8243; gap above soil or patio<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use proper drainage<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Grade soil to prevent water pooling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use gravel or pavers under pergola for drainage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Avoid over-spanning beams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Follow safe span tables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add extra posts if unsure\u2014more posts = more stability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 7. Optional Upgrades for Even Longer Life<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Metal post anchors<\/strong> (best upgrade you can make)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Polycarbonate roof panels<\/strong> for rain protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shade cloth or fabric canopy<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diagonal bracing<\/strong> for extra rigidity against wind<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>LED lighting<\/strong> integrated in beams\/rafters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hidden joist tape<\/strong> on top of beams (protects wood from water)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2b50 Expected Lifespans<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Material<\/th><th>Lifespan<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Cedar (well maintained)<\/td><td>20\u201330+ years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Redwood<\/td><td>25\u201340 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pressure-treated wood<\/td><td>15\u201325 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vinyl<\/td><td>25\u201350 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Composite<\/td><td>30\u201350 years<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Steel\/Aluminum<\/td><td>40\u201360+ years<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Build a 10&#215;12 Pergola<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a <strong>complete, practical, builder-ready plan<\/strong> for a <strong>10\u00d712 ft pergola<\/strong>.<br>This includes dimensions, materials, lumber sizes, footing layout, hardware, and step-by-step instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want, I can turn this into a printable PDF or blueprint afterward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf3f <strong>10\u00d712 Pergola \u2014 Professional Build Plan<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 <strong>1. Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong> 10 ft (width) \u00d7 12 ft (length)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Height:<\/strong> 8 ft\u20139 ft (standard)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Posts:<\/strong> Four 6\u00d76 posts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Beam Configuration:<\/strong> Double 2\u00d78 or 2\u00d710 on each long side<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rafter Configuration:<\/strong> 2\u00d76 or 2\u00d78 rafters spaced 16\u201324&#8243; apart<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shade Slats:<\/strong> Optional 1\u00d73 or 2\u00d72 pieces across the top<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This design is strong, looks clean, and lasts 20\u201330+ years with proper materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 <strong>2. Materials List<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Lumber<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Posts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>(4) 6\u00d76\u00d710&#8242; pressure-treated or cedar posts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Beams (12 ft sides)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>(4) 2\u00d710\u00d712&#8242; (or 2\u00d78 if you prefer a lighter look)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Rafters (10 ft span)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>(8\u201310) 2\u00d76\u00d710&#8242; (depending on spacing)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade slats (optional)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>(8\u201312) 2\u00d72\u00d712&#8242; or 1\u00d73\u00d712&#8242;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bracing (optional but recommended in windy areas)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>(4) 2\u00d76\u00d73\u20134&#8242; pieces cut diagonally<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hardware<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>(4) Metal post anchors (if using concrete piers)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OR 4 bags of concrete per post (if burying posts in concrete)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>(24\u201332) \u00bd&#8221; \u00d7 6&#8243; galvanized carriage bolts + washers + nuts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Structural screws (3&#8243;, 4&#8243;, or 5&#8243;)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Joist hangers (for rafters if preferred)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exterior wood glue (optional)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simpson Strong-Tie brackets (optional)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Finishing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>UV-resistant exterior stain or sealer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brush, roller, or sprayer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Post caps (optional, increases longevity)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 <strong>3. Post &amp; Footing Layout<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Layout dimensions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>10 ft (width)\n&lt;----------------&gt;\n\n   P1 ----------- P2\n   |              |\n12 ft            12 ft\n   |              |\n   P3 ----------- P4\n\n10 ft (width)\n<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Footings<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dig <strong>holes 12&#8243;\u201316&#8243; wide<\/strong>, <strong>36&#8243;+ deep<\/strong>, or <strong>below frost line<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add <strong>4\u20136&#8243; gravel<\/strong> at bottom to improve drainage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set concrete piers <strong>flush or just above ground level<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Post mounting options:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option A \u2014 Best for long life<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Concrete piers + metal post anchors<\/strong><br>\u2192 Wood never touches soil = longest lifespan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option B \u2014 Strong but shorter lifespan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Post set in concrete with top flared for drainage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2705 <strong>4. Build Steps<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 1 \u2014 Set the Posts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Place post brackets centered on each footing (or insert posts before concrete sets).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set all four 6\u00d76 posts plumb using temporary bracing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Posts are exactly square (measure diagonals\u2014they must match).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height is consistent (cut tops later if necessary).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2 \u2014 Install Beams (12 ft sides)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Each 12 ft side gets a <strong>double 2\u00d710 beam<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clamp first 2\u00d710 to outside face of posts at desired height (usually 7&#8242; to bottom).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Level the beam and bolt it through posts using <strong>\u00bd&#8221; carriage bolts<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeat on opposite side.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add the second 2\u00d710 laminated (stacked) onto the first with structural screws.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>This creates two strong parallel beams running the 12 ft length.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 3 \u2014 Install Rafters (10 ft span)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lay rafters across beams perpendicular to the 12 ft length.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spacing options:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>16&#8243; on-center<\/strong> \u2192 maximum strength<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>18\u201324&#8243; on-center<\/strong> \u2192 lighter look<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Let rafters overhang beams by 12&#8243; for aesthetics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secure rafters with:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Structural screws<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Or joist hangers for a cleaner look<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>For a more finished appearance, cut decorative tails (arched, angled, or curved).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4 \u2014 Add Shade Slats (optional)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Run 2\u00d72 or 1\u00d73 slats <em>on top of<\/em> rafters, perpendicular:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Space 6\u201312 inches apart<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attach with exterior screws<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This dramatically increases shade and aesthetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 5 \u2014 Add Corner Bracing (optional but recommended)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Install 2\u00d76 diagonal braces at each post-to-beam connection to prevent racking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 6 \u2014 Seal &amp; Finish<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sand any rough spots<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply <strong>two coats<\/strong> of UV exterior stain or sealer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install post caps for protection<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2b50 <strong>Finished Pergola Specifications<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Footprint:<\/strong> 10 ft by 12 ft<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Height:<\/strong> ~8.5 ft<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Posts:<\/strong> 6\u00d76<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Beams:<\/strong> Double 2\u00d710<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rafters:<\/strong> 2\u00d76 at 16\u201324&#8243; spacing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wind Strength:<\/strong> Excellent<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Expected lifespan:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cedar: <strong>25\u201335 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PT wood: <strong>20\u201330 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steel posts + wood beams: <strong>40+ years<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-small-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winnipegfencepros.com\/#contactus\">\n\t\t\t\tGet In Touch\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Building a long-lasting pergola comes down to three things:(1) structural strength, (2) weather-resistant materials, and (3) proper installation\/maintenance.Here\u2019s a professional, builder-grade guide you can follow. \u2705 1. Plan the Structure Correctly Decide the purpose Determine size &amp; layout \u2705 2. Choose Long-Lasting Materials Best woods (natural durability) Best non-wood materials Tip:If you want the longest [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[19],"class_list":["post-36","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-pergola","tag-decks-and-pergolas"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Build a Pergola: A Step-by-Step Guide - WINNIPEG FENCE PROS<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to build a pergola with our comprehensive guide covering materials, installation, and maintenance for lasting quality.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winnipegfencepros.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-long-lasting-pergola\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Build a Pergola: A Step-by-Step Guide - 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