Hello,

I'm sure this must be tiring for some in answering these sort of questions, but I've searched and googled and bribed friends for information, but the answers I'm getting do not solve my puzzle.

So, here goes. I have a brand new house with a big yard. I live in Delaware Ohio where recently we had thunderstorms with wind gusts of up to 50Mph. We get lots of snow and during summers it gets plenty hot.

We've recently completed a 20x15 paver patio, and would very much like to build a pergola over it. Now, if you would imagine that the paver patio is 20 feet long and 15 feet wide, it's perpendicular to our house. I would like to build the pergola parallel to the house, meaning 20 feet wide by 15 feet across. The pergola and the patio would become a plus sign, so to speak.

My questions:

1. Using just 4 6x6 posts, how do I construct this project?
2. Is the standard here of 3 feet deep concrete post hole enough?
3. Would it be safe to build using simpsons tie cbsq (CBSQ Column Bases) for the posts?
4. How do I support either 2x10s or 2x12s across the 20 foot span? Metal braces?

I would like this to be an investment for the next 10 years or so. Thank you in advance for you valuable answer.

I think your frost line in Ohio is more like 42" but you will need a permit and the local building department can give you more help. I think your spans are very big for only 4 support columns. How to Build a Wood Pergola : How-To : DIY Network if you want more try this How to build a pergola or arbor Google "How to build a pergola" ypou will have more info than you can read

I agree with "ballengerb1". Your spans are too big for 4 support columns. If you need detailed information you should take a look at pergola building plans. You should be able to solve your problems.

my opinion four post would work if you brace with 3-4 foot 6x6 at a 45 from post to stringers, sandwich posts and brace's with the 2x12's, some Simpson styles are nice to use and required by building codes,but you may not need a permit if it's not attached to house. You will need a beefy 1/2 drill with a long wood bit,12 in. long 3/4 or 7/8 dia. Nail stringers temp. drill a #5 holes to bolt 2x12's to posts, use big washers,as for post in ground or Simpson base, cost is much higher with Simpson base. A rule of thumb 1/3 post height in ground. Slightly bell shaped post holes,bigger at bottom. Rod concrete well for density and good adhesion. Crown all your lumber. Hand pick your lumber well, redwood wouldn't need sealer Doug fir would and is a bit stronger,your personal pref. have fun!