But fortunately, this is one of the easiest (and cheapest) do-it-yourself projects for the landscape.
They’re at least 7 feet tall, although you might go up to 10 feet or more.
Read on for the basic building steps for a garden arbor.
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If you are making a larger arbor, the size of the structural lumber may need to be increased.
This work will be considerably more manageable if you have two or three helpers to assist you.
Over the beams, six 10-foot-long rafters spaced 2 feet apart span across the structure.
see to it to choose lumber that is resistant to decay and insect damage.
Pressure-treated lumber can be painted or stained after a short period of drying.
Other, more expensive alternatives include cedar or redwood, both of which have a natural resistance to decay.
Place several inches of gravel in the bottom of each hole to assist drainage.
Take your time on this part of the project.
A helper can be very useful at this stage of construction.
Position the posts in the footing holes, making sure the spacing is uniform between the posts.
The posts should form a perfect square space.
Anchor the Posts
Mix concrete in a wheelbarrow or mortar box.
Consistency should be dough-likenot too wet, nor too crumbly.
Once the post is positioned properly, avoid touching it as you proceed to the other post.
Proceed to the second post.
It is critical that you install it so the front faces of both posts are aligned.
A long straightedge board can be used to ensure that the faces of the posts are aligned.
When all posts are installed, allow the concrete to dry overnight.
Take care to prevent the posts from being bumped or moved as the concrete dries.
First, cut four 2x6s to the desired width of the arbor “roof.”
Use a long straightedge and level to ensure that the beams are level from side to side.
Each beam pair should be secured to its post with two bolts.
This is easiest to do before you bolt the beam boards into place.
Cut the 2x4 rafters to length.
Position the first rafter across the tops of the beams so the overhang is uniform on each end.
Outline the location of the sandwiched beams on the edge of the rafter.
Repeat this process with each of the remaining rafters.
Position the rafters onto the beams, tapping them down so the beams are fully embedded into the notches.
check that the rafters are evenly spaced along the joists.
Begin by cutting 2-inch by 2-inch lattice strips.
Lay out the position for the lattice strips on the rafters, striving for even spacing.
Attach the lattice strips to the rafters with deck screws driven from above.
It can also support vining plants.
A trellis is sometimes used to frame out the tops or sides of an arbor or pergola.
Arbors are a lovely addition to a formal garden, often used to support vining plants.
They work nicely as entryways, a small benched area, walkways, or arched architectural elements.
