About Freestanding Pergolas
Freestanding pergolas stand independently on four or more posts, providing flexible placement anywhere in your landscape. Dream Decks constructs freestanding pergolas that serve as stunning focal points in gardens, define outdoor dining areas on patios, or create shaded retreats in any location you choose.
The independence of freestanding pergolas offers significant design flexibility. Place one over a patio separate from the house, position it as a garden destination at the far end of your property, or create a shaded sitting area beside a pool. Freestanding placement also allows orientation optimization—we can position the structure to maximize shade during peak sun hours regardless of your home's orientation.
All freestanding pergolas require proper foundations. We install frost-depth footings (42 inches in Minnesota) at each post location, ensuring stability through freeze-thaw cycles. Post-to-footing connections use galvanized or stainless steel hardware that resists corrosion. The self-supporting structure must carry its own weight plus significant snow loads—our engineering accounts for Minnesota's 40+ pounds per square foot requirements with appropriate beam and rafter sizing.
