Pergolas
Open-roof structures that define a patio or deck and give plants, shade cloth or lighting something to attach to.
Trade 05 · Pergolas & Outdoor Structures
Pergolas & Outdoor Structures
Pergolas, privacy structures and covered areas that define the space and make it more usable.
What We Build
Sub-services
Structures that turn open space into a place
Privacy Structures
Screens, slat walls and fence-style panels that shield a hot tub, patio or seating zone from sightlines.
Covered Living Areas
Roofed spaces that extend the use of a patio or deck through rain and sun.
Attached & Freestanding Designs
Structures tied to the house or standing on their own, each with its own structural needs.
Integrated Lighting & Features
Lighting, fans, heaters and wiring planned with the structure so nothing is added awkwardly afterward.
Why It Matters
Pergolas & Outdoor Structures
Shelter, privacy and a sense of room
A structure gives an open patio walls, a ceiling or both, so the space feels like a room. In our climate, cover is often what makes a patio worth using in the shoulder seasons.
Because posts, beams and roofs carry wind, snow and their own weight, structure design is more than decoration. Footings, connections and framing are planned for the loads they carry, and permits are reviewed where they apply.
What good looks like
- Posts are anchored to proper footings or slab details.
- Beams and connections sized for the span and the loads.
- Roof and cover chosen for light, rain and the look you want.
- Wiring and lighting planned into the frame.
Design Options
Make it yours
Ways to shape the structure
Open Pergola or Solid Roof
An open top gives dappled light; a solid roof gives rain protection. Some designs mix both.
Wood, Composite or Metal
Each reads differently and asks for different upkeep and finish.
Traditional or Modern Lines
Post size, beam profile and rafter spacing set the character of the structure.
Screens & Slat Walls
Panels can be solid, slatted or planted with climbers to balance privacy and airflow.
Lighting, Fans & Heat
Plan power early so fixtures, switches and fans have a place.
Materials
Suppliers & collections
Where we look for structure materials
Lumber, posts and hardware come from suppliers we work with or can source through. Browse and send us the ones you like. Product availability, colors and pricing can change, so a saved link is a selection request, not a guarantee.
TRM Wood Products
Maple Valley lumberyard for building materials, beams, posts and cedar.
Visit TRM Wood Products (opens in a new tab)Trex
Composite decking and railing. Browse colors and profiles before we confirm selections.
Visit Trex (opens in a new tab)TimberTech
Composite and PVC decking and railing options for inspiration and product details.
Visit TimberTech (opens in a new tab)Materials Design Center
Explore supplier collections, paste the product links you like into your project request, and we will confirm availability, suitability and pricing during design and estimating.
Explore all materialsHow We Build It
5 Steps
How a structure is built
Design & Site Review
We settle placement, size, height, sight lines, sun and how the structure meets the house or the patio.
Permits & Structural Review
Attached and roofed structures often need permits and structural review. We coordinate what applies.
Footings & Layout
Footing locations are laid out from the design and set so posts land exactly where they should.
Posts, Beams & Rafters
Posts are set plumb, beams and rafters are installed and connections are fastened with exterior-rated hardware.
Roof, Screens & Finish
Cover, screens or slats are installed, then finishes, lighting and cleanup are completed.
Warranty & Credentials
What stands behind the work
Workmanship coverage and credentials are confirmed in writing with your proposal.
What Affects the Cost
Factors, not prices
What affects the cost of a structure
Size & span
Larger footprints and longer spans need heavier framing.
Attached or freestanding
Connecting to the house adds flashing and structural details.
Roof type
Open, partly covered and fully roofed structures differ in material and labor.
Materials & finish
Wood, composite or metal and the finishing method shape cost.
Electrical & features
Lighting, fans, outlets and heaters add scope.
Site & access
Soil, slope and how material reaches the site influence footings and labor.
Every property is different. After we assess yours, your proposal sets out the written scope, options and pricing assumptions.
FAQ
Pergolas & Outdoor Structures
Do I need a permit for a pergola?
Often, yes, especially for attached structures or those with a roof. It depends on your city or county and the size and design. We confirm what applies for your project.
Can a pergola be covered for rain?
Yes. Options include solid roofing, polycarbonate and similar covers. We help you weigh light, drainage and looks.
Can you add a structure to an existing patio or deck?
Often, yes. We check the existing surface and framing first to see whether it can carry the posts or needs reinforcing.
Can you add privacy to an existing patio?
Yes. Privacy screens and slat walls can be designed to fit existing hardscape and plantings.
What does a structure cost?
Size, materials, roof type, attachment, electrical and site access influence cost. You receive a written scope and pricing after the assessment.
Let us build the space you have been planning
Tell us what you want to change and any materials that have caught your eye. We will help you understand the right next step.