Are you planning to add a stunning pergola to your backyard but got no idea about the dimensions? If so, then you are in the right place. Having an outdoor space where you can chill and invite your loved ones is never an undesirable endeavor, and having a well-planned pergola will enhance the whole experience. However, choosing the perfect pergola dimensions is essential for your home before investing.

Our blog post will go through several factors one must consider when deciding the pergola dimensions. So, read it till the end to avoid making the wrong decision!

 Standard Size(ft')
Width Height Size
8 8, 10 8x8, 8x10
10 10, 12, 13, 14, 20 10x10, 10x12, 10x13, 10x14, 10x20
12 12, 14, 16, 20 12x12, 12x14, 12x16, 12x20
16 16 16x16
20 20 20x20

 

 

What Is The Average Size Of A Pergola?

Apart from the pergola layout, it is essential to ensure that the measurements are appropriate. If the pergola gets too small, it will be challenging to set up furniture beneath it and vice versa.

Pergolas come in standard dimensions ranging from moderate to big to freestanding, giving you plenty of options. Many pergolas are small to medium-sized, measuring 3x3 meters, 12 by 12 feet or 144 square feet. Any measure that falls under this category offers shade and charm for the backyards of compact and medium-sized houses.

How To Measure A Pergola?

Considering the area and demands of a person, pergola sizes might vary significantly. But, it mainly depends on two main factors: The length and width of the pergola.

The measurement of the pergola may be selected from standard sizes, or you can personalize it to match the required area and use. The right way is to measure it from either side of the space where you intend to place the stakes all the way out to another pillar or framework.

Below is the list of the standard pergola lengths according to the measurements of the roof structure:

  • Standard Aluminium dimensions

 

  • Standard CPVC dimensions

 

  • Standard Vinyl dimensions

 

Personalized kits are measured by determining the gap from column centers and including the cantilever dimensions. However, if you do not see your desired size, you can always get a customized design to satisfy your needs.

Note: Getting the right pergola size might seem as easy as ABC, but it is the most crucial part of the installment, or it could cost you many dollars.

What Is The Average Height Of A Pergola?

There are three usual pergola heights; 8 feet/ 96 inches, 10 feet/120 inches, and 12 feet/144 inches. These are standard ceiling heights for driveways and other enclosed spaces. Even if the roof is 8 or 12 feet high, remember that the framework above takes up the area too.

If you want to figure out how tall your pergola will be, determine the height of your residence initially, after which add two feet for every side that would contain a support structure. And the best thing is that there are strategies to modify a pergola. This way, you can achieve the height you desire. Cool, right?

Is There A Height Restriction On Pergola Placement?

A pergola has no size restrictions. Yet, a roof above 12 feet is rarely seen because it needs council clearance. Be careful about checking with the council's guidelines before initiating the structure to prevent potential penalties.

How Wide Should A Pergola Be?

The recommended width of the pergola primarily depends on how big your yard is and the total area you would like it to occupy in the yard. The guidelines say to build it with a width that is no less than 6 feet, so two individuals can go below it together.

Other than that, pergolas with the dimensions 16x16 and 20x20 are a hit. These bigger sizes enable you to enclose your entire terrace or designate a cozy space adjacent to a pool.

What Is The Ideal Size For A Pergola?

Again, there isn’t a fixed size that we would call ‘ideal’. It all depends on your particular requirements and liking. But we know it can sometimes be quite a task to make the right decision in front of hundreds of options. We recommend getting the pergola 8 feet in length and 6 feet in width as it allows you to move around freely while placing your furniture within without feeling crowded.

What Is The Standard Size For A Roof Overhang On A Pergola?

The most commonly used size for the overhanging roof of a pergola is typically 1 and half foot. This size is ideal for a pergola as it will not hinder your viewpoint or occupy a lot of room while providing sufficient coverage from sunlight.

But it’s always possible to modify things according to your needs. For instance, if you need an extended overhang, you may extend it to roughly two feet. But check that it appears proportional to the pergola's measurements.

What Is The Standard Spacing For Pergola Posts?

The spacing for pergola posts generally depends on the roof covering. However, the standard spacing for the posts is about 8 feet. In the case of wood or a tough roof covering, the distance can be increased by about ten to twelve feet, ensuring that the pillars can hold the added load. Conversely, in the case of a light roof covering, you can reduce the distance to anything between six and four feet. The key is to keep things balanced and intelligible!

Can A Pergola Be Higher Than A Fence?

Pergolas are mostly built near a fence for aesthetic views and to help block sunlight. The answer to your question is yes! A pergola can be higher than a fence, but you should always make sure that your pergola does not block any sunlight into your neighbor’s yard. It might cost you as it would be against related rights. Other than that, if it is not bothering anyone, you can definitely make your pergola higher than a fence.

Final Thoughts

Summing up, we answered all your questions regarding the pergola dimensions in this blog post. We believe choosing the ideal pergola would be a lot less challenging now. Because in the end, whether you are constructing a deck, terrace, or outside leisure area, the pergola dimensions and installment can significantly upscale everything if chosen correctly!

May 04, 2023 — YanJoanne