How to Build a Column-Based Pergola

Using the post hole digger, dig 4 holes, each 3 feet deep, at the four corners of an 8-by-8-foot square.

Set treated 4-by-4 posts in the hole so that 3 feet are above and 3 feet are below ground level. The post must be centered and level.

Pour quick-set concrete into the holes around the posts. Allow it to cure completely, according to package directions, before working more with the structure.

Lay bricks or stepping stones inside the posts to create the floor of the pergola.

Lift the hollow composite columns and set them over the 4-by-4 posts.

Slide a round wooden plug into the column and screw it into position using 2- inch wood screws.

Screw the hollow column to the 4-by-4. Use 2-inch screws, screwed through the column at a height of 3 inches, 20 inches, and 34 inches on the north and south side of the post.

Slide the decorative trim that goes around the bottom of the column, also known as the base, over the top of the column and down its length until it sits flush against the brick floor.

Set the decorative trim that goes around the top of the columns, also called the capital, on each column.

Create a pattern for the beam ends. Patterns can range from a simple diagonal cut to an ornate scrolling design. The pattern should be no more than 8 inches in height and depth.

Trace the design onto each end of every 2-by-10 beam using a pencil. The pattern should begin at the bottom of the beam, and leave a 2-inch-wide section at the top of the beam uncut.

Cut away the area under the traced line using a jigsaw.

Position the first 2-by-10 beam across the top of the columns, at the center of their width. Use a level to determine that the beam is level across its length.

Affix the beam to the top of the column using a metal L bracket. Use 1 ½ inch screws to attach the L bracket first to the beam, and to the plug in the center of each column.

Position a second 2-by-10 beam, on the west side of the pergola. Affix this beam to the columns in the same manner that the first beam was affixed.

Cut notches in the 2-by-6 beams so that they will slide over the 2-by-10 beams. Cut the notches with a table saw and dado blade. Cut the notch a foot from the end of each board. The notch should be 2 inches wide and 2 inches deep.

Cut away the bottom 3 inches of the pattern used to shape the ends of the 2-by-10 beams, so that it is an appropriate height for use on the 2-by-6 beams. Trace the revised design onto the 2-by-6 beams, and remove the excess lumber.

Set the 2-by-6 beams every 12 inches across the width of the pergola, beginning across the center of the columns on the north and south side and then working toward the center. Use 4-inch wood screws, screwed down from the top of the beam to affix the 2-by-6s into position on the 2-by-10s.

Treat the lumber in the finished pergola with white paint so that the rafters match the columns.