| Pergolas are trellis-like structures that are either | | | | This will cut down on the number of trips to the |
| attached to the house, or they are free standing. | | | | supply depot that you will have to make. |
| Either type, if well constructed, can add a useful area | | | | It is always a good idea to use lumber that will resist |
| to your house and yard. But before tackling the | | | | rotting, since the wood will be exposed to the |
| building project you should obtain some outdoor | | | | weather all year long. Redwood or cypress are |
| pergola plans to make life easier. | | | | excellent, weather resistant lumber choices. You can |
| A good set of plans will be easy to read, especially if | | | | also get treated lumber. Treated lumber will be less |
| you have some experience with architectural | | | | expensive. Until recently, creosote was used to |
| renderings. In many places it will be necessary to | | | | pressure-treat lumber for weather resistance, |
| take your plans to your local building department to | | | | however, it was discovered that this chemical was |
| get them approved before you can start | | | | not people-friendly and could cause health problems. |
| construction. | | | | It is still possible to get lumber treated with creosote, |
| If you do need a permit, all the more reason to get | | | | but that would have to be special ordered. The |
| a professionally drawn set of drawings. The plans | | | | treated lumber that is normally sold now at your local |
| may also have a list of lumber, hardware, and other | | | | lumber supply is safe for installation at your home. |
| building materials needed to complete the project. | | | | |