Upgrade Your Outdoor Space with Free Pitched Roof Pergola Plans
A pergola can turn a plain backyard into a fancy place to hang out outside. A pergola defines and beautifies outdoor spaces with its shade and straight lines. The pitched roof of a pergola makes it stand out because it draws the eye up with its steep slope. This style also protects against the weather better than a flat roof.
The good news is that you can find a lot of great free plans online for building your own pitched roof pergola. With the right do-it-yourself pitched roof pergola plans, you can build a unique shade structure that you will love for years to come.
Benefits of a Pitched Roof Pergola
There are several advantages to choosing a pitched roof design for your pergola
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Aesthetically pleasing – The angled roof is more visually interesting than a flat top. Pitching the roof draws the eye upward and creates a feeling of height and space.
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Increased weather protection – Angled rooflines allow rain, snow and other precipitation to easily run off. This keeps the interior of your pergola drier.
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Versatile design options – You can build a pitched pergola with an open roof or incorporated roofing panels. Multiple pitch angles are also possible.
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Longer roof lifespan – Water runs off pitched roofs instead of pooling. This prevents possible water damage, rot and mold.
Overall, a pitched roof pergola provides better protection from the elements, is aesthetically unique, and can last longer than other pergola styles.
Where to Find Free Pitched Roof Pergola Plans
If you want to DIY a pitched roof pergola, there are many great free plans available online. Here are some top sites to find pitched pergola plans:
The Spruce: This site for home improvement projects has a good collection of free pergola plans for a variety of styles. Their 10×12 Wood Pergola with gable roof is a great choice for a pitched roof.
Ana White – Search “pergola” on this popular DIY blog to access a variety of pitched roof pergola plans for free. The plans are detailed with step-by-step instructions.
Simply Differently – Browse this site’s pergola plan section to find several modern pitched roof pergola designs available for free download.
Instructables is a website where people can share plans for pitched pergolas. The 12 x 16 Modern Pergola has a roof that slopes in different directions.
Etsy – Many Etsy sellers offer instant download pergola plans for sale. Search for “pergola plans pitched” to find options under $20.
Major brands like Decks.com and Simpson Strong-Tie also offer free pitched pergola plans online. With some searching, you can find the perfect DIY pitched roof pergola plan for your needs.
Great Free Pitched Roof Pergola Plans
Here are 10 of the best free pitched roof pergola plans available online:
- 10 x 12 Wood Pergola
This gable roof pergola from The Spruce is made from easy-to-find lumber. At 10 x 12 feet, it’s great for small to mid-sized yards. The peak height is 10 feet.
- 10 x 16 Gabled Cedar Pergola
For added longevity and visual appeal, this free pergola plan uses cedar. The gabled roof amplifies the sense of space underneath at 10 x 16 feet.
- 12 x 16 Modern Pergola
With clean lines and an asymmetrical slanted roof, this modern pergola stands out. The 3D illustrations make the build straightforward.
- 12 x 20 Pergola with Louvered Roof
Adjustable louvers allow you to control sun and airflow on this sizable pergola. The plans include helpful schematics.
- 10 x 12 Deck Pergola
Extend your deck’s use by incorporating this 10 x 12 pergola and 4/12 pitched gable roof on top.
- 8 x 12 Lean-to Pergola
Maximize shade in a narrow garden with this lean-to pergola adjoining the house. It has a single sloped roof.
- 6 x 8 Mini Pergola
For small spaces, this mini pergola with pitched roof makes an impact. It provides coverage for a bistro set.
- 10 x 20 Rectangular Pergola
A large rectangular pergola with ample overhead shelter. The plans detail constructing the 4/12 double pitched roof.
- 12 x 20 Gable Pergola
This substantial gable roof pergola provides serious shade. The plans make building the roof trusses simple.
- 8 x 14 Deck Pergola
Integrate this gabled roof pergola seamlessly into your deck for more useable space.
How to Choose the Right Roof Pitch
The roof pitch impacts how your pergola looks, functions, and its overall height. Some common pitched pergola roof angles include:
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3/12 pitch: Minimal slope provides some rain runoff while keeping height lower.
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4/12 pitch: Moderate angle offers good rain protection. Easy to cover with roof panels.
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6/12 pitch: Steeper pitch improves drainage. Increased height is more visually striking.
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8/12 or 12/12 pitch: Very steep pitch for wet climates. Maximizes height but may require roof supports.
A 4/12 or 6/12 roof pitch is ideal for balancing appearance, function, and easy DIY construction.
Building a Pitched Roof Pergola
Follow these tips for success constructing your own pitched roof pergola:
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Carefully review the plans and purchase all required materials before starting.
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Enlist help to assemble any roof trusses on the ground before lifting them up.
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Use pressure treated lumber or rot-resistant wood like cedar.
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Anchor posts well, especially if attaching the pergola to your home.
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Use corrosion resistant hardware like stainless steel screws and bolts.
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Seal any wood cuts and drill holes with waterproofing.
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Add decorative elements like lighting or a canopy when finished.
With the right DIY pitched roof pergola plans, you can create a customized shade structure that looks amazing and provides real functionality. Enjoy stylish new outdoor living space under a pitched roof pergola!
Pictures From These Plans
12×12 pergola plans, plans include a PDF download (link at bottom of blog post), shopping list, cutting list, measurements, step-by-step detailed drawings, and instructions.
Here’s How to Build a Pergola in One Hour
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