

Fix the other two rows of nogs (purlins) equal distance apart.Fix the top row of nogs (purlins) 100mm (4″) down from the top of the rafters and fix the bottom row of nogs (purlins) 100mm (4″) up from the end of the rafters.Fix four rows of 100×50 (2×4) nogs on edge in-between the rafters as in the flat plan These are the nogs (purlins) that the roofing is fixed to.Ensure the rafters are square, at right angles to the building. Fix the rafters 750crs (30″ O.C.) that is, spaced every 750mm (30″) apart, to the ledger with joist hangers and to the beam with skew nails (nails angled in, toe nailed) and angle clips or Z nails.Refer to the plans for reference if necessary. In this example cut the rafters 2280mm (91 1/4″) long for 2400 (96″) roof sheets. Work out the rafter length to suit the roof sheets if possible (so as the roof sheets wont need cutting).

Cut the rafters to length and angle cut each end to suit.Check the posts for plumb (vertical), brace if necessary and leave till concrete sets. Place at least 100mm (4″) thick pad of concrete at the bottom of the footing holes, place the posts in position and fill the footing holes up with concrete.Max span between any two posts must be no more than 2400mm (8ft) For example, a piece of 100×50 (2×4) lumber when dressed may be 90×45 (1 1/2″x 3 1/2″) actual size. The actual size, or dressed size of the lumber will be less than the nominal size so please make necessary allowances. The nominal size of a piece of lumber is the size of the lumber before it is surfaced/dressed or seasoned and is the size generally referred to when purchasing from the lumber yard. The lumber sizes referred to in this project are the nominal sizes.
Pergola rafter spacing how to#
This page shows construction details for making the pergola frame along with variations on how to fix the pergola roof frame to the eaves or house. The elevation plan gives a good perspective of the addition to the untrained eye. The elevation plan is more like a drawing of the outside of the addition rather than a plan although is still drawn to scale.
