I’m Steve Arnold, and I own Arnold Handyman Services LLC in Lubbock, Texas. Building things has been my hobby and part-time business for the past 30 years (I don’t play golf, lol). I can happily spend hours in any building supply store studying materials and tools or wandering through any new construction or remodel project. While I’ve dabbled in all areas of construction, including working for a new homebuilder, my greatest enjoyment has always been anything related to woodworking.
For the current project, this pergola pavilion build was a request from my sister-in-law for their ranch in New Braunfels. My brother has the skills to build this; he just doesn’t have the time. He and I determined the size that would fit on the pool deck, 8′ x 12′ while my sister-in-law provided a verbal description and, of course, a picture from Pinterest (isn’t that where all good ideas come from?).
Since they live on a very nice property, I wanted this to be a premium build with only quality materials. I sat down at my desk with a pencil, ruler, and graph paper to begin 5 pages of detailed notes and sketches. From there I compiled my materials list in Excel with quantities and prices, for review and approval by the “customer.”
Simpson Strong-Tie® hardware is always my go-to product, and I have used them for years on many projects. Their Outdoor Accents® line is aesthetically beautiful while also being structurally sound. Here’s a complete list for the current project:
- APB66R post base, 11,450 lb. down DF/SP, 1260 lb. uplift, 6×6 posts, 12 ga., black, 1 pk.
- Strong-Bolt® 2 STB2-50512 wedge anchor, 1/2″ diameter, carbon steel, zinc, 3 13/16″ length thread
- APVL6 flat L-strap tie, 10 1/2″ length, 5″ width, steel, powder-coated ZMAX® finish
- Outdoor Accents® Avant Collection™ APVGP612 gable plate, 34 1/2″ L x 5″ W x 19 3/4″ H, 6:12 pitch
- Outdoor Accents Avant Collection APVST610 flat strap, 9 3/4″ length, 5″ width, steel, ZMAX
- Avant APVA6 90° ornamental angle, 3″ to 3 1/4″ width, 5″ diameter, steel, black powder coat
- APDTS3 decorative star, 12 ga., black, ZMAX
- Outdoor Accents structural wood screws to install all Simpson Strong-Tie connectors
The cedar beams and shiplap ceiling were ordered in advance and delivered to the jobsite. My brother had one of his employees stain all wood about a week in advance of the scheduled build. Staining in advance is the only way to go!
The build was scheduled for three days starting on July 3. My brother provided four of his employees to assist me; we made so much progress on day one (with beautiful weather) that I knew we would finish the next day, and we did, despite the rain on day two. Sadly, we woke up the morning of July 4 to learn of the tragic flooding disaster in Kerrville, only one hour west of where we were working near New Braunfels. It rained on us that day, the entire day, but we finished the job, soaking wet. Had to install a quick makeshift blue tarp over one side of my cargo trailer so we could run the saws without getting them wet.
We woke up on day three to continued rain, but the pergola pavilion was complete! I was happy to spend the day indoors, dry, recovering from two days of intense work, and we all watched the continuous local news coverage of the Kerrville disaster. My brother and I discussed and fine-tuned his plan to metal the roof the following weekend.
This wasn’t the first pergola I’ve built, but it’s my favorite. I’m hoping to have the opportunity to build more in the near future. It was fun to put all my tools to good use; the right tools make all the difference for precision cuts, especially with large timbers.
My advice to others considering a similar project is to do your homework! I literally spent two months planning every detail of this build and enjoyed every minute of it. Study all materials, visit supply stores, look online for sample pictures, watch videos, talk to other people, and most importantly make sure that your customer understands and approves your vision for the build!
Because I was previously familiar with the Simpson Outdoor Accents hardware line and its structural capabilities, much of the design process and materials selection were adapted to the best use of these products. The Simpson hardware was strategically located for maximum visual appeal AND maximum structural support. High winds are a hazard in this area, so I made sure there was zero chance of wind damage.
My sister-in-law is already busy placing her new outdoor furniture, rugs and pillows under this beautiful structure, next to the pool. The electrician has already been there to run conduit up the back side, for ceiling and perimeter lighting to be installed this weekend. It will be enjoyed for many years to come!
