Step 4. Attaching the Cross Rafters

It is important that you allow equal spacing between the rafters as this will ensure that the final structure is aligned perfectly. Remember that the rafters over the posts are designed to fit centrally and it is easiest to fit these first and then fill in the gaps with the other cross rafters.

Lay the rafter(s) on top of the main beam, ensuring that they are at right angles and fix to the main beams using the right-angle brackets and screws provided. This keeps the metalwork on the top side of the beam and out of sight. As Fig 19 demonstrates below:

A diagram displaying the attachment of the rafters to the main beam, attached at 680mm intervals using angle brackets and the wood screws provided with the pergola

Fig 19

Fig 20, 21 & 22 below show that the rafters fix centrally over the tops of the post and give further structural support when screwed in place.

A diagram displaying a side view of how to attach the rafters to the main beam, attached at 680mm intervals, beginning 254mm from the end of the main beam using angle brackets and the wood screws provided with the pergola

Fig 20

A diagram displaying where to attach the angle brackets mentioned in fig 19 and 20 for attaching the rafters to the main beam

Fig 21

Fig 22