Pergola kits can be expensive. If you have been wanting to add a pergola to your home, but the price of a pergola kit exceeds your budget, buy lumber and build your own.

If you know how to use a jigsaw, and can follow directions, this project will be no problem. Find a spot for your pergola. Measure the location, and find some plans that will work for that location you have chosen. Most pergolas are built on patios, decks, and gardens.

Pergolas are very basic structures, you can probably build one with no plans. But, to save time and eliminate all the guess work definitely use some plans. There are lots of free plans on the net, they are pretty good. One of the draw backs with free plans is finding the size that you want. If this is the case invest in some plans, they are cheap and they will come in many sizes.

This is a project most homeowner can do themselves. A simple design such as a square or a rectangle should be no problem building.

Make sure you check for any requirements, such as permits regarding this project. Also be aware of any underground pipes if you will be digging.

Here is a list of free pergola plans to get this project started.