Softwoods Blog

Being that this blog is here to provide information on Pergolas, Decks, Timber and outdoor entertaining using timber, it makes sense that we cover the types of timber that we sell at Softwoods and give you the reader as much information as possible about them, so that you can make an educated decision about what you are buying. This particular article covers CCA Treated Pine. My primary source in researching this article is the CSIRO, where you will find an exhaustive and likely more coherent outline than mine!

At Softwoods, most of the structural timber that we sell is plantation grown Radiata Pine. In order to prevent movement and rot and to deter pests such as termites and borers, the timber is put through a treatment process once it has been cut and before it is packed and distributed. This process, involves subjecting the cut timber to a solution of chemicals via a vacuum or pressure system which penetrates the timber with the solution and bonds chemically to the timber providing a defense against weathering, movement and pests. The timber is then kiln dried to lock in the treatment solution and remove any excess moisture (which if left wet will result in unpredictable movement)

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Softwoods are committed to providing our customers with all of the care and advice that we can, and we are happy to present here our comprehensive instructions for building a pre cut Softwoods Pergola. This is an extremely long and comprehensive document that will help you through each and every aspect of the building of your structure. For ease of navigation and reading it has been broken into several posts that cover all of the elements required in your build.

This particular set of instructions is for a parallel attached gable roof pre cut pergola kit. Our pre cut pergola kits make the construction of a pergola considerably easier than previously because all of the angles and notches are cut to create a kit that will fit together simply, without the requirement of endless measuring and cutting.

Our assembly method also benefits from pre cutting, allowing a lot of the work to be done on the ground which makes for a safer build. In addition to these instructions there will be further posts on how to install Hip ends, freestanding pergolas and decks in future.

As a guide for you, most of our carpenters can finish a 6x4m parallel attached structure in approximately two days. We would advise that you should take your time and make sure that you are doing everything methodically and properly as it will save you time and money if you get everything right the first time. Following our instructions should mean that you are able to build your pergola as easily and quickly as possible.

Please click through to each article in the series for each step in the process.

Step One – What you need to consider before you build

Step Two – Identifying the elements of your Pergola

Step Three – Marking out

Step Four – Assemble Gable Frames

Step Five – Installing Fascia Brackets

Step Six – Installing Beams and Bottom Chords

Step Seven – Installing Posts

Step Eight – Installing the Rafters and Ridge

Step Nine – Installing Gable Ends and Purlins

Step Ten – Installing Gutters

Step Eleven – Installing Roofing

For further information or any inquiries you might have please get in contact with us via the phone or the form below, we’d love to hear from you.