How Big Can I Build My Pergola?

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 built to last. Every bracket leg is made from heavy-duty, 12-gauge steel and has a minimum shear strength of 3,000 lbs. Structurally speaking, the brackets can easily handle massive weight loads.

The limiting factor is actually the wood itself. When a timber spans more than 12 feet horizontally without vertical support, it becomes more likely to sag over time—especially under the weight of weather, hanging lights, or climbing plants.

• 4x4 timbers are more prone to sagging

• 6x6 timbers are stronger, but still best kept to spans of 12 feet or less

Keeping your spans within this range ensures your pergola maintains its strength and beauty for years to come.

What If You Want to Build Bigger?

If you’re thinking, “Okay, but what if I want something larger than 12’x12’?” — you’ve come to the right place.

Even though our standard pergola kit is ideal for up to 12’x12’, Bjorn Woodworks offers a full system of modular brackets that let you expand your design in any direction.

Example: Building a 12’x24’ Pergola

To double your span, simply pair 1 Standard Pergola Kit with 1 Pergola Extender Kit.This combination allows you to add vertical posts midway through your structure, effectively breaking the span into two 12-foot sections. This eliminates wood sag while giving you the full 12’x24’ footprint you want.

Build as Long as You Want — One Extender Kit at a Time

The best part? You can keep going. Whether you want to build a 36', 48', or even infinitely long pergola, you can do so by adding an extender kit for every additional 12 feet.

Each extender creates another section with its own vertical support, maintaining the strength of your build.

And while some people worry vertical posts might obstruct their space, we see them as opportunities for customization:

• Add a privacy wall for shade or seclusion

• Create outdoor shelving for plants or blankets

• Integrate an outdoor kitchen or bar area

Your pergola doesn’t just get bigger — it gets more functional.

Create Any Shape: U-Shaped, T-Shaped, or Custom Designs

Bjorn brackets are modular by design, so you’re not limited to rectangles. Want a U-shaped or T-shaped pergola? Simply sketch out your design and determine which combination of connectors you’ll need.

From 5-way brackets to corner brackets, foot brackets, and extender kits, our full system lets you create a structure that perfectly fits your space — and your imagination.

Build Without Limits

At Bjorn Woodworks, our goal is simple: to give you the freedom to design and build without compromise. Whether your project is a compact patio pergola or a sprawling outdoor retreat, our modular bracket system gives you the strength, flexibility, and design options to make it happen.

Start building your dream pergola today — one bracket at a time.

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