The Pergola

This was a feat.
And not just the construction feat.
But the Husband convincing its worth it feat.
One a wife knows well.

My advice:
Step 1: Approach the subject of building a pergola with your husband while making a baked good.
Step 2: After he says no-- just do it anyway.

Cory was not in love with this idea.
He didn't even like the idea as a friend.

So one day, I went to the Depot of Home and bought the lumber.
-You can't return lumber.
-Lumber isn't cheap.
-You might as well build a pergola...

Our inspiration was this:




A pergola at the resort we stayed at on our honeymoon.


Our Outcome was this:

We used:
22 1x3s
4 4x6s
5 2X4s
4 inch Bolts
Wood Screws
2 4X6 L Brackets
3 closet rod hangers
3 2inch wooden rods

Construction:

1.) Stain all the wood.
--- We didn't do this and then later realized we needed the protection
2.) Lay each side down and pre-drill the holes making sure the 4X6 and the 2X4 are square to each other
3.) Screw one 2X4 to two 4X6 stand up in desired location (Using heavy objects or person to brace it)
4.) Repeat for the other side
5.) Use the pre-drilled holes as a guide to attach the two ends
6.)Measure the distance between the middle. Cut remaining 2X4 to fit in between.
7.) Secure L bracket at either end and place cut 2x4 between the bracket.
8.) Place 1X3s on the roof and secure with wood screws
9. ) Mount curtain rod. Making sure to use a level.
10.) Hang curtains.

Easier said than done.
We had no idea how to do this and figuring it out in the moment was difficult.
However, it transformed our yard!
And reminds us of our honeymoon.
You have to love that.