How To Attach A Pergola To A Fascia

Lead Image for How To Attach A Pergola To A Fascia
  • 40-60 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 1,700-8,000
What You'll Need
2 x 8 Lumber
Ladder or Scaffolding
Circular Saw
Drill
Wood Stain and Polyurethane Seal
Natural Bristle Brush
Galvanized Lag Bolts with Washers
Galvanized Wood Screws
Joist Hangers
What You'll Need
2 x 8 Lumber
Ladder or Scaffolding
Circular Saw
Drill
Wood Stain and Polyurethane Seal
Natural Bristle Brush
Galvanized Lag Bolts with Washers
Galvanized Wood Screws
Joist Hangers

A pergola is an overhang that can be used as a deck shelter or serve as a decorative and functional garden structure. Attaching a pergola to your home’s fascia board secures it to the home, giving it more stability. This project can be done alone or with assistance and requires a minimal level of construction skills

Step 1: Attach a Header Board to the Fascia

The existing fascia board may be strong enough to hold the pergola but it is easier to reinforce the fascia by attaching a 2 x 8 header board to it. Drill holes into the header board and fascia board and attach, using the 3/8-inch lag bolts and washers. The lag bolts should sink 2 inches into the header and fascia boards in order to secure them together.

Once the header board has been attached to the fascia board, you will have an extra security point at which to attach the pergola. This will provide additional strength to the home and prevent the pergola from giving way and becoming damaged.

Step 2: Stain the Header Board

Apply a coat of stain and polyurethane seal to the header board using the natural bristle brush. This will help protect the wood from the elements. Allow the header board to dry up to 24 hours after the application of the stain and seal.

Use a stain that matches the color of the pergola. It is best to stain the pergola and the header board at the same time to ensure that the colors match. As for the polyurethane sealant, it should be an exterior-grade seal that is used for outdoor structures, such as patios and decks. You will have to apply 2 to 3 coats of sealant to ensure adequate coverage and absorption by the wood.

Step 3: Attach Joist Hangers

Attach joist hangers to the header board at the same equal intervals as the pergola’s cross beams. The cross beams will rest in the joists to provide the support and attach the pergola to the house. Attach the joists to the header board with the galvanized wood screws.

Galvanized wood screws are referred to as double-hot dipped screws. These are specifically designed to be used outside to provide additional protection to the wood. The screws are coated in an alloy that prevents rust, which is important, especially in wetter climates. Water will not seep in where the screws are placed, making it difficult to rot as a result of water damage.

Step 4: Attach the Pergola to the Header Board

Place the cross beams of the pergola into the joists hangers. The cross beams should be secured with wood screws. This completes the project and the pergola is now permanently attached to your home.