Pergolas have long been the go-to structure for homeowners wanting to add beauty, function, and shade to their outdoor spaces. Their classic wood design, open-beam layout, and natural aesthetic make them one of the most timeless ways to transform a yard. But as outdoor living continues to evolve, more homeowners are asking: what’s replacing pergolas? The answer isn’t so much that pergolas are disappearing—it’s that they’re being reimagined into new, more functional styles th

When searching for the best pergola kit , you quickly discover that not all kits are created equal. In fact, most pergola kits fall into three major categories , each with its own advantages, limitations, and ideal use cases: Fully Prefabricated Wood Pergola Kits Fully Prefabricated Aluminum Pergola Kits DIY Pergola Bracket Kits Below, we break down how each works — and which type is best depending on your project, skill level, and expectations. 1. Fully Prefabricated Wood Pe

Built to Withstand 4,000 Pounds — Per Bracket At Bjorn Woodworks, strength and longevity are the foundation of everything we design. Our 4x4 pergola brackets are engineered with a shear strength of 4,000 lbs per bracket  — more than enough to handle the demands of virtually any residential or commercial pergola build. That means when you build with Bjorn brackets, you’re working with a system that far exceeds the structural loads most DIY and professional projects will ever f

The Short Answer: Up to 12'x12' with a Standard Pergola Kit When it comes to pergola size, the most common question we get is: “How big can I build it?” With a standard Bjorn Pergola Kit , you can confidently build up to a 12' x 12' structure  using either 4x4 or 6x6 lumber . That’s the sweet spot for most backyard builds—large enough to create a beautiful shaded area, but still structurally sound over time. The Limitation Isn’t the Hardware — It’s the Wood Our brackets are b