More work on the pergola today, after a trip to the lumber yard to pick up eight more 2×6’s. I’ve been looking at the structure as it exists: currently four posts set in concrete, and the 2×6’s fastened to the top of each post. Each 2×6 has a 30 degree triangle cut. I got that by measuring 2 1/2 inches from the end, then cutting on that diagonal. The long edge of the 2×6 is at the top after the cut. The 2×6’s are fastened to the posts with two galvanized lag bolts.

I’ve used ‘construction common’ redwood, which means that there are knots in the wood, but they are ‘tight’ (not open). The color of the wood is red and lighter color, although the posts are full red color. I had been thinking that I needed some sort of stain or protection against the wood weathering to a gray color. So I got some semi-transparent stain in a ‘honey’ color at the local “Wally Worlds” (that’s what people call WalMart around here).

Todays’ task was therefore cutting the top boards to 100 inches, so there is a 14 inch overhang on either side of the top, then cutting the 30 degree angle on each end. Then I applied the stain to all of the top boards and the posts and rails. I am letting them dry and will install them next.

Except: what would be the proper spacing for 16 rails mounted vertically across the top of the pergola (the width is 119 inches)? It would be similar to figuring out the spacing on stair balusters (them’s the vertical boards on a stair railing).

And I know the answer on how to do that. Which you will find out in the next post. And there will be pictures when it is all done.

In the meantime, it’s time to mow the newly sodded back yard. The sod has been in place for two weeks, so it is time to start mowing it. So that is also on the agenda for tomorrow.