Planning a Covered Deck or Pergola the Right Way

Deck Builders Seattle · Mar 26, 2026 · 2m

In this episode of Deck Builders Seattle, we walk through what homeowners should think about before adding a covered deck or pergola to their outdoor space. A roofed structure or pergola can add shade, shelter, and year‑round usability, but it also adds weight, wind load, and structural demands that need to be handled correctly.

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We start by explaining the difference between a fully covered deck with a solid roof and a lighter pergola that provides partial shade. Each has its own structural needs, from posts and beams to connections at the house. You’ll learn why it’s important to design the…