Build a pergola

A pergola can become a focal point in an ordinary yard because it creates an attractive outdoor living space for seating and relaxing. The trellis-like, open-air room is made of supports and rafters where vines and plants grow around and through them. Years ago, a pergola was a custom-built structure, but today you can buy a kit and have it assembled or do it yourself.

This is a complex project that involves several phases. The components of the unit are made of wood and should be primed and painted or stained before construction. The structure requires concrete footings for the supports; for flooring a base of quarry stone or brick are good choices.

A landscape contractor will charge $6,246, including labor and material, to assemble a 10-foot-by-12-foot pergola kit on a brick base. You can buy the kit and materials for a foundation and floor for $2,800, do it yourself and save 55 percent. But the job is complicated, involving pouring cement footings, laying a floor and assembling all the components. If there’s any doubt, hire a pro. You supply the creative touch with lush plantings like clematis and wisteria that climb and grow and enclose the new outdoor living space.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Pro Cost -- DIY Cost -- Pro time -- DIY Time -- DIY Savings -- Percent Saved

$6,246 -- $2,800 -- 39.0 -- 50.0 -- $3,446 -- 55 Percent

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