Pergola Design Feedback – Is This Structurally Sound? Seeking Advice on Materials & Layout
Hi everyone! I'm working on a DIY pergola project and would love some feedback from the pros and experienced builders here. I’ve attached a top-view sketch of my current plan. Project Overview: Dimensions: 16 ft x 27 ft total (split into 14 ft and 13 ft sections) Posts: 6x6x8 (orange) each braced at the corners with 2x8s for added stability (not shown in the top-view sketch, as I wasn’t sure how to represent it visually). Posts will be anchored to footers using post base (simpson strong-tie or similar) Main headers: 2x8x16 (red) Rafters: 2x8x16 (green) Stringers: 1x4x20 (pink, running perpendicular across the top) Cross headers (blue): 2x8x16 What I’d love feedback on: Structural Soundness: Does this layout look structurally solid for a freestanding pergola of this size? Optional Cross Header (Blue): The blue 2x8x16 cross header is intended to add rigidity. Can I get away with not using it and still maintain stability? Wood Choice: I’m considering AC2 #2 pressure-treated wood for cost reasons. → Is it acceptable for a pergola that will eventually be stained/sealed? → Or is cedar (at 4x the cost
