I am getting ready to build an elevated deck off the back of my house and would like to build a pergola into the design. I am attaching the plans for the deck and the pergola here. I think I've got a pretty good feel for where this is going, but I haven't been able to figure out how to mount the pergola posts.

As you can see, right now the pergola posts sit right on top of the main beam. This seems like the strongest option, but I am not sure how to attach it. Can I use something like the Simpson BCS Post Cap (http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/bc.asp)

Also, you'll notice that the pergola posts function as part of the guardrail and so must meet code requirements of withstanding a 200 lb. outward force. Can I use the Simpson DTT2Z (http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/dtt2z-hd2ahdg.asp) product?

An obvious suggestion would be to use one continuous 6x6, but it would need to be nearly 20' in length, not impossible to purchase, but pretty impossible for me to install, although any suggestions to the contrary would be appreciated.

Any thoughts would be great!

20' 6X6 is tough to stand up by yourself,that I can attest to:(,even 18' or 16' would still be a challenge to plumb properly,but they would make for the best,most secure/strengthened rails.

I am guessing that length would also support the pergola?

If not,(as I don't think a 6X6 would be needed for that application)the 6X6 posts can end at the deck height.Decking installed with 4X4's notched and bolted to the framing and up to the pergola height.

The 2X10 supports and 2X8 cross ties for the pergola added to the handrail between posts plus face bolts holding a 4X4(notched to 2" and with the amount of face you have to bolt to,2 maybe 3 bolts,offset so there is no center of weakness).Edit:, should be enough strength for the 200 lb. outward force necessary for the handrail requirements.

You might need to add additional 4X4's just for railing support.

Just MHO.

KBC-

Thanks for your input, really great ideas.

The choice to use 6x6s for the pergola posts is more for appearance than structure. Will your suggestion work with 6x6 posts?

We are looking for a fairly clean appearance, so our plans call for mounting the guard rail posts inside the rim joist, rather than outside. Would this work all right for the pergola posts?

Finally, I am planning to use the Simpson DTT2Z connectors to connect the guard rail posts as an alternative to typical bolts. They are supposed to be stronger. Would they work for the pergola posts?

Thanks so much!

The 6X6 posts for the pergola support.

If you are going to use 6X6's,go for the entire height from ground to pergola top with continuous wood.That strength can't be beaten.

A fairly clean appearance.
Rail posts inside the rim joist.

So when the post is running up,notching the post at the height of the joist,allowing the joist to rest in the post,and the post then continuing to the pergola height.

Notching the 6X6's the thickness of the rim joist(1 1/2 nominal)and then the front edge is smooth except for the bolt face(s).