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Free Outdoor Structure Plans from Simpson Strong-Tie: Build Your Own Backyard Projects

Simpson Strong-Tie Pavilions

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Table of contents

Important Download Notice Large Pergolas for Serious Coverage Medium-Sized Pergolas Pavilions (Covered Structures) Attached Structures (Ledger-Mounted) Smaller Accent Structures Why Simpson Strong-Tie Plans Matter Before You Start Building Getting Started Frequently Asked Questions

If you're looking to add some outdoor living space to your property, Simpson Strong-Tie offers several free building plans for pergolas, pavilions, and other outdoor structures. These aren't just basic sketches. They're detailed plans that show you exactly what you need to build whatever design you choose.


Let's walk through what's available and what makes each design worth considering.

Before You Start Building

Before we get into the details, here's what you need to know about downloading these plans. By pressing the "AGREE AND DOWNLOAD" button (or "I AGREE" button on some plans), you're confirming that you've read and agreed to Simpson Strong-Tie's License Agreement and Terms. Make sure you understand what you're agreeing to before you download.

Agree and Download

Always verify that the hardware quantities you purchase match the specific requirements of your project. Our product links and selections are provided as a helpful guide, but quantities may differ from those listed in the original plans based on design changes, adjustments, or product availability. Review your plan details carefully to ensure you have the correct amount of each item before beginning construction and purchasing.

Large Pergolas for Serious Coverage

17

17' x 25' Meadow Premier Pergola


This is Simpson Strong-Tie's biggest pergola plan at 425 square feet of coverage. If you're working with a large patio or entertaining area, this design gives you plenty of room to work with. The Meadow Premier uses substantial posts and beams to span that distance safely. You'll see high-top tables and patio furniture in the example setup, which gives you an idea of the scale.


The structure uses a traditional pergola design with open rafters on top. That means partial shade during the day as the sun moves across. Good for breaking up direct sunlight without making the space feel closed in.

What parts will you need?

17' x 25' Premier Pergola

  1. APA4 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x Heavy Angle: 8 pc.
  2. APA6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x Heavy Angle: 4 pc.
  3. APB66 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x6 Post Base: 8 pc.
  4. APDJT2-6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x Deck Joist Tie: 24 pc.
  5. APDMW56 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Decorative Washer: 32 pc.
  6. APL6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x L Strap: 8 pc.
  7. APT6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x T Strap: 16 pc.
  8. DSVT312 - #10 x 3½" Deck-Drive™ DSV WOOD Screw (Tan): 162 pc.
  9. SDWS22312DBB - 0.220" x 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 248 pc.
  10. SDWS22512DBB - 0.220" x 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 112 pc.
  11. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 360 pc.
  12. ⅝" Anchor Bolt 

Simpson Strong-Tie 17' x 25' Meadow Premier Pergola

18' x 18' Freestanding Pergola

This one's a square footprint at 324 square feet. The freestanding design means you're not tying into your house structure, which keeps things simpler from a permitting and installation standpoint. You set your posts, level everything up, and build from there.


The square layout works well for central gathering spaces, such as fire pit areas or standalone seating zones in your yard. Simpson Strong-Tie's plans will show you proper post spacing and beam sizing to keep everything stable.

What parts will you need?

Freestanding 18x18 Pergola

  1. APA4 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x Heavy Angle: 32 pc.
  2. CBT4Z * - 6x6 Concealed Beam Tie with ZMAX coating: 4 pc.
  3. MPB66Z * - 6x6 Moment Post Base with ZMAX coating: 4 pc.
  4. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 64 pc.
  5. SDWS22512DBB - 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 104 pc.
  6. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 64 pc.
  7. 10/225WP - #7 x 2¼" Deck-Drive DWP WOOD SS Screw (Trim Head): 288 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 18' x 18' Freestanding Pergola

Medium-Sized Pergolas

10x10 Backyard Pergola

Pergola with Privacy Screen


This design adds screening elements to the standard pergola frame. The privacy screens give you options for blocking sightlines from neighbors or creating more defined spaces within your yard. You can run lattice, slats, or other infill materials between the posts.


The screening makes this design more versatile than a basic open pergola. You're still getting the overhead shade structure, but now you've got vertical control over the space too.

What parts will you need?

Pergola with Privacy Screen

  1. APVB66 * - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x6 Post Base: 5 pc.
  2. APVB66DSP * - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x6 Post Base Decorative Side Plates: 10 pc.
  3. APVA6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x Heavy Angle: 6 pc.
  4. APVL6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x L Strap: 8 pc.
  5. APLH26 - Outdoor Accents 2x6 Concealed Flange Light Joist Hanger: 48 pc.
  6. APRTR - Outdoor Accents 2x Rigid Tie Rail Connector: 44 pc.
  7. SD10112DBB - 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 744 pc.
  8. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 104 pc.
  9. SDWS22512DBB - 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 12 pc.
  10. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 116 pc.
  11. SDS25300 - 0.235" x 3" Strong-Drive SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR Screw (Exterior): 36 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie Pergola with Privacy Screen

10' x 10' Backyard Pergola


A hundred square feet of coverage in a compact footprint. This size works when you've got limited yard space but still want a defined outdoor area. The cedar construction shown in the example photo holds up well to weather when you maintain it properly.


This is a good starter project if you haven't built a pergola before. The smaller size means less material handling and fewer connection points to manage.

What parts will you need?

10x10 Backyard Pergola

  1. APVA21 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection Light Rafter Tie: 12 pc.
  2. APBV44R * - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 4x4 Post Base: 4 pc.
  3. APVDJT2R-4 * - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 4x Deck Joist Tie: 16 pc.
  4. APVDW56 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection Decorative Washer: 32 pc.
  5. APDTS3 - Outdoor Accents Decorative Star: 2 pc.
  6. SD10112DBB - #10 x 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 34 pc.
  7. SDWS22312DBB - 0.220" x 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 80 pc.
  8. SDWS22512DBB - 0.220" x 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 40 pc.
  9. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 120 pc.
  10. DSVR3 or DSVT3 - #10 x 3" Deck-Drive DSV WOOD Screw (Red or Tan): 77 pc.

*These models are sized for rough lumber. If using nominal lumber, order the parts without the "R" in the model number: APBV44 (or APB44) and APVDJT2-4 (or APDJT2-4).

Simpson Strong-Tie 10x10 Backyard Pergola

10' x 8' Freestanding Pergola


Even smaller at 80 square feet. This one fits into tight spaces—maybe alongside a house wall or in a corner of your property. Despite the compact size, you still get a proper overhead structure with full-dimension lumber.


The freestanding design gives you flexibility in placement. You're not locked into attaching to existing structures.

What parts will you need?

10x8 Pergola 

  1. APA21 - Outdoor Accents® Mission Collection® Light Rafter Tie: 16 pc.
  2. APB44 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x4 Post Base: 4 pc.
  3. APDMW56 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Decorative Washer: 32 pc.
  4. APDTS3 - Outdoor Accents Decorative Star: 4 pc.
  5. APDJT2-4 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x Deck Joist Tie: 64 pc.
  6. SD10112DBB - #10 x 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 80 pc. (You will need two packs of the linked screws)
  7. SDWS22312DBB - 0.220" x 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 80 pc. (You will need two packs of the linked screws. Always make sure the packs you are buying have enough to fulfill the project plans.
  8. SDWS22512DBB - 0.220" x 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 148 pc.
  9. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 80 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 10' x 8' Freestanding Pergola

Pavilions (Covered Structures)

10

10' x 14' Party Pavilion

Here's where we shift from open pergolas to actual roofed structures. This pavilion design includes a solid roof deck, which means real weather protection. The 140 square feet of covered space keeps rain off your outdoor furniture and gives you usable space even in bad weather.


Simpson Strong-Tie specs out the roof framing to handle snow loads and wind uplift. That's critical for covered structures—you need proper engineering, not guesswork.

What parts will you need?

Party Pavilion

  1. APVGP612 - Outdoor Accents® Avant Collection™ Gable Plates 6:12 Pitch: 4 pc.
  2. APVT6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x T Strap: 12 pc.
  3. APVA21 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection Light Rafter Tie: 16 pc.
  4. APVA4 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 4x Heavy Angle: 44 pc.
  5. APVA6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x Heavy Angle: 12 pc.
  6. MPB88Z * - 8x8 Moment Post Base with ZMAX® coating: 4 pc.
  7. SD10112DBB - 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 32 pc.
  8. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 288 pc.
  9. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 288 pc.
  10. DSVT3 - #10 x 3" Deck-Drive™ DSV WOOD Screw (Tan): 476 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 10' x 14' Party Pavilion

Attached Structures (Ledger-Mounted)

12

12' x 16' Attached Patio Cover


This design ties directly into your house with a ledger board. You're creating 192 square feet of covered space that extends your indoor living area outside. The attachment method matters here—you need to flash the ledger properly and hit solid framing in your wall.


These attached covers use a sloped roof that pitches away from the house. That keeps water moving in the right direction. Simpson Strong-Tie's plans show proper connection details between the house and the freestanding posts.

What parts will you need?

Attached Patio Cover 

  1. APB66 - Outdoor Accents® Mission Collection® 6x6 Post Base: 2 pc.
  2. APB66DSP - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x6 Post Base Decorative Side Plates (optional): 4 pc.
  3. APT6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x T Strap: 4 pc.
  4. APA4 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x Heavy Angle: 10 pc.
  5. APHH46 - Outdoor Accents 4x6 or 4x8 Heavy Joist Hanger: 5 pc.
  6. SDWD22312DBB - 0.220" x 3 1/2" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 70 pc.
  7. SDWS22512DB - 0.220" x 5 1/2" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 12 pc
  8. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 82 pc.
  9. DSVR4 - #10 x 4" Deck-Drive™ DSV WOOD Screw (Red): 100 pc.
  10. SDS25300 - 0.235" x 3" Strong-Drive® SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR Screw (Exterior): 30 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 12' x 16' Attached Patio Cover

10' x 12' Attached Patio Cover


Smaller attached option at 120 square feet. Same concept as the larger version but scaled down for tighter spaces or smaller patios. You still get the weather protection and the extended living space.

The connection details are just as important on the smaller version. Don't cut corners on the ledger attachment just because the structure is smaller.

What parts will you need?

Attached Patio Cover featuring hidden connectors

  1. CJT3ZS * - 4x Light Concealed Joist Tie with ZMAX® coating: 12 pc.
  2. CBT2Z * - 4x4 Concealed Beam Tie with ZMAX coating: 2 pc.
  3. MPB44Z * - 4x4 Moment Post Base with ZMAX coating: 2 pc.
  4. SDWS2210000DB - 0.220" x 10" Strong-Drive® SDWS™ TIMBER Screw (Exterior Grade): 12 pc.
  5. SDWS22600DB - 0.220" x 6" Strong-Drive SDWS TIMBER Screw (Exterior Grade): 76 pc.
  6. SDWS16212 - 0.160" x 2½" Strong-Drive SDWS FRAMING Screw (Exterior): 17 pc.
  7. T07300WP - #7 x 3" Deck-Drive™ DWP WOOD SS Screw - Trim Head: 32 pc.
  8. T07225WP - #7 x 2 1/4" Deck-Drive DWP WOOD SS Screw - Trim Head: 136 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 10' x 12' Attached Patio Cover

Specialty Structures

14' x 16' Floating Deck with Pergola

This is a two-part project: a ground-level deck platform with a pergola structure on top. The "floating" deck sits on footings without attaching to your house. You build the deck first, then frame the pergola on top of it.


Good option when you need to create a level outdoor space on sloped ground. The deck handles the grade change, and the pergola defines the space above.

What parts will you need?

8' x 18' Freestanding Porch Pergola

The long, narrow footprint (144 square feet) works well along walkways or as a covered entrance area. You could run this parallel to your house to create a covered path or use it as a standalone feature in your landscaping.

The proportions make this one unique—it's more corridor than square gathering space.

What parts will you need?

Freestanding 18x18 Pergola

  1. APA4 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x Heavy Angle: 32 pc.
  2. CBT4Z * - 6x6 Concealed Beam Tie with ZMAX coating: 4 pc.
  3. MPB66Z * - 6x6 Moment Post Base with ZMAX coating: 4 pc.
  4. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 64 pc.
  5. SDWS22512DBB - 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 104 pc.
  6. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 64 pc.
  7. 10/225WP - #7 x 2¼" Deck-Drive DWP WOOD SS Screw (Trim Head): 288 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 18' x 18' Freestanding Pergola

Smaller Accent Structures

Three-Post Trellis

This is a vertical structure for climbing plants. Three posts create stability with minimal footprint. You can use this against a fence line, as a garden divider, or as a standalone accent piece.


Simple construction but effective for adding height and structure to garden beds.

What parts will you need?

Three-Post Trellis

  1. ECCLLQ464SDS - End Column Cap L-Shaped Left-Beam Oriented: 1 pc.
  2. HSULC46 - Heavy Left Skewed 45° Face-Mount Hanger: 1 pc.
  3. HSURC46 - Heavy Right Skewed 45° Face-Mount Hanger: 1 pc.
  4. MPB66Z * - 6x6 Moment Post Base with ZMAX® coating: 3 pc.
  5. APA21 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Light Rafter Tie: 44 pc.
  6. APBDW66 * - Outdoor Accents 6x6 Post Base Decorative Wrap: 3 pc.
  7. APT6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x T Strap: 2 pc.
  8. SD10112DBB - #10 x 1 1/2" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 120 pc.
  9. SDWS22312DBB - 0.220" x 3 1/2" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 12 pc.
  10. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 12 pc.
  11. SDWS22500DB - 0.220" x 5" Strong-Drive® SDWS™ TIMBER Screw (Exterior Grade): 72 pc.
  12. T07225WP - #7 x 2 1/4" Deck-Drive™ DWP WOOD SS Screw — Trim Head: 24 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie Three-Post Trellis

5' x 14¾' Shade Arbor

Think of this as a narrow overhead structure—good for pathways or creating shaded spots between garden areas. The example shows a hammock setup, which gives you an idea of the casual use cases.


At about 74 square feet, it's not a full patio cover, but it's perfect for specific zones in your yard.

What parts will you need?

Shade Arbor

  1. MPB66Z - 6x6 Moment Post Base with ZMAX® coating: 2 pc.
  2. APA21 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Light Rafter Tie: 18 pc.
  3. APDMW56 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Decorative Washer: 24 pc.
  4. SD10112DBB - #10 x 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 36 pc.
  5. SDWS22312DBB - 0.220" x 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 24 pc.
  6. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 24 pc.
  7. SD10212 - #10 x 2½" Strong-Drive® SD CONNECTOR Screw (Exterior): 48 pc.
  8. SDWS22500DB - 0.220" x 5" Strong-Drive SDWS TIMBER Screw (Exterior Grade): 182 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie 5' x 14 3/4' Shade Arbor

BBQ Shade Cover

Purpose-built for covering your grill area. Keeps direct sun and light rain off your cooking station. The design accounts for heat and smoke from the grill below—you need proper clearance and ventilation.


Don't enclose this structure too much. You need airflow around cooking equipment.

What parts will you need?

BBQ Shade Cover

  1. APA4 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x Heavy Angle: 12 pc.
  2. APT6 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 6x T Strap: 4 pc.
  3. APA21 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection Light Rafter Tie: 138 pc.
  4. MPB66Z * - 6x6 Moment Post Base with ZMAX® coating: 2 pc.
  5. SD10112DBB - 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 276 pc.
  6. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 48 pc.
  7. SDWS22512DBB - 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 8 pc.
  8. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 56 pc.
  9. T07225WP - #7 x 2¼" Deck-Drive™ DWP WOOD SS Screw — Trim Head: 16 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie BBQ Shade Cover

Garden Gazebo

Traditional gazebo design in cedar. This is a more decorative structure than the working pergolas and pavilions. The gazebo creates a defined destination spot in your yard.


Expect more detailed cuts and joinery than the simpler pergola designs. The payoff is a finished look that stands out.

What parts will you need?

Garden Gazebo

  1. A23Z - Light 90° Angle with ZMAX® coating: 3 pc.
  2. ABA44Z - 4x4 Adjustable Post Base with ZMAX coating: 1 pc.
  3. H2.5AZ - Hurricane Tie: 6 pc.
  4. HUC28-2Z - Heavy Concealed-Flange Face-Mount Joist Hanger with ZMAX coating: 2 pc.
  5. LPC4Z - Light Post Cap with ZMAX coating: 2 pc.
  6. LS50Z - Field Adjustable L Angle with ZMAX coating: 12 pc.
  7. LSCZ - Adjustable Stringer Connector: 3 pc.
  8. LSSJ26LZ- Face-Mount Adjustable Light Slopeable/Skewable Jack Hanger (Left) with ZMAX coating: 8 pc.
  9. LSSJ26RZ - Face-Mount Adjustable Light Slopeable/Skewable Jack Hanger (Right) with ZMAX coating: 8 pc.
  10. LUS26Z - 2x6 Face-Mount Joist Hanger with ZMAX coating: 22 pc.
  11. APGT6 - Outdoor Accents® Gazebo Tie 6 Rafter: 2 pc.
  12. APGTF - Outdoor Accents Gazebo Tie Bottom Rim Joist: 6 pc.
  13. APGT2 - Outdoor Accents Gazebo Tie 2 Rafter: 6 pc.
  14. APB44 - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x4 Post Base: 6 pc.
  15. APB44DSP - Outdoor Accents Mission Collection 4x4 Post Base Decorative Side Plates: 12 pc.
  16. SD10112DBB - #10 x 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 228 pc.
  17. SDWS22312DBB - 0.220" x 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 48 pc.
  18. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 48 pc.
  19. SDWS16212 - 0.160" x 2½" Strong-Drive® SDWS FRAMING Screw (Exterior): 158 pc.
  20. SDWS16300 - 0.160" x 3" Strong-Drive SDWS FRAMING Screw (Exterior): 76 pc.
  21. SD9112 - #9 x 1½" Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw (Exterior): 469 pc.
  22. SD9212 - #9 x 2½" Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw (Exterior): 100 pc.
  23. SD10212 - #10 x 2½" Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw (Exterior): 28 pc.
  24. DSVT3 - #10 x 3" Deck-Drive™ DSV WOOD Screw (Tan): 365 pc.
  25. THDB62600HSSS - ⅝" Stainless Steel Titan HD® Heavy-Duty Screw Anchor*: 6 pc.
  26. THD56500HSSS - ½" Stainless Steel Titan HD Heavy-Duty Screw Anchor*: 5 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie Garden Gazebo

Porch Portico

An attached entrance cover that dresses up your front or side door. This is about curb appeal and weather protection for your entryway. Smaller scale than the patio covers.


Good weekend project that adds value to your home's appearance.

What parts will you need?

Porch Portico

  1. APVGP612 - Outdoor Accents® Avant Collection™ Decorative Gable Plates 6:12 Pitch: 2 pc.
  2. APHH610 - Outdoor Accents 6x Concealed-Flange Heavy Joist Hanger: 2 pc.
  3. APVA4 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 4x 90° Angle: 44 pc.
  4. APVB66 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x6 Post Base: 2 pc.
  5. APVB66DSP - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x6 Decorative Post Base Side Plate (optional): 4 pc.
  6. APVT6 - Outdoor Accent Avant Collection T Strap: 2 pc.
  7. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 168 pc.
  8. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 168 pc.
  9. SDS25300 - 3" Strong-Drive® SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR Screw: 28 pc.
  10. SDWH27800G - 8" Strong-Drive SDWH TIMBER-HEX HDG Screw: 4 pc.
  11. DSVT3 - 3" Deck-Drive™ DSV WOOD Screw: 342 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie Porch Portico

Pool Bed Cabana

Designed for poolside use. This structure gives you a shaded lounging area near the water. The plans account for the humid environment around pools—material selection matters.


Make sure you understand your local codes around pool enclosures before you start this one.

What parts will you need?

Pool Bed Cabana


  1. APLH26 - Outdoor Accents® 2x6 Concealed Flange Light Joist Hanger: 14 pc.
  2. APHH46 - Outdoor Accents 4x Concealed-Flange Heavy Joist Hanger: 4 pc.
  3. APLH210 - Outdoor Accents 2x10 Concealed-Flange Light Joist Hanger: 4 pc.
  4. APVA21 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection™ 90° Light Angle: 4 pc.
  5. APVA6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x 90° Angle: 4 pc.
  6. APVB66 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x6 Post Base: 4 pc.
  7. APVB66DSP - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x6 Decorative Post Base Side Plate: 8 pc.
  8. APVDJT2-6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 2x Deck Joist Tie for 6x Post: 4 pc.
  9. APVL6 - Outdoor Accents Avant Collection 6x L Strap Tie: 4 pc.
  10. LUS26-2Z - 2x6 Face-Mount Joist Hanger with ZMAX®: 2 pc.
  11. N10 - 0.148" x 1½" Nails: 8 pc.
  12. 10D - 0.148" x 3" Nails: 8 pc.
  13. SD10112DBB - 1½" Outdoor Accents Connector Screw: 212 pc.
  14. SDWS22312DBB - 3½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 92 pc.
  15. SDWS22512DBB - 5½" Outdoor Accents Structural Wood Screw: 24 pc.
  16. STN22 - Outdoor Accents Hex-Head Washer: 116 pc.
  17. SDS25300 - 3" Strong-Drive® SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR Screw: 24 pc.
  18. SDS25300SS - 3" Strong-Drive Stainless-Steel SDS HEAVY-DUTY CONNECTOR Screw: 56 pc.

Simpson Strong-Tie Pool Bed Cabana

Why Simpson Strong-Tie Plans Matter

These aren't just rough ideas; these Simpson Strong-Ties are known for their engineered connection systems. Their plans include proper structural details, not guesswork. When you build from these plans, you're working with designs that account for loads, spans, and connections.

That matters when the building inspector shows up. It also matters when you have a structure that needs to withstand wind, snow, and time. 

Before You Start Building

A few things to remember:


Check local codes. Every jurisdiction has requirements for setbacks, heights, and permits. These plans give you the structure details, but you still need to follow local rules.


Understand the materials. Most of these designs use dimensional lumber and standard hardware. Make sure you know what you're buying and that it matches the plan specifications.


Read the full plans. The photos and descriptions here give you an overview, but the actual downloadable plans contain the critical details—connection points, hardware lists, cutting diagrams, and assembly sequences.


Plan for footings. Every freestanding structure needs proper footings below the frost line. The plans show footing requirements, but your local conditions might require adjustments.

Getting Started

All of these Simpson Strong-Tie plans are available for free download. You'll need to agree to their terms before downloading, but there's no charge for the plans themselves.


Pick the design that fits your space and your skill level. Start with the smaller projects if you're new to this type of work. The larger pergolas and pavilions require more material handling and more complex assembly, but they follow the same basic principles.


These structures add real value to your property—both in terms of usability and resale value. A well-built outdoor structure extends your living space and makes your yard more functional.


Take your time with the build, follow the plans, and don't skip steps. The end result is a structure you can be proud of that'll serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Simpson Strong-Tie outdoor structure plans really free?

Yes. Every pergola, pavilion, and outdoor structure plan from Simpson Strong-Tie is free to download once you agree to their License Agreement and Terms.

What types of outdoor structures can I build with these plans?

You can build pergolas, pavilions, patio covers, gazebos, trellises, shade arbors, floating decks, and even specialty structures like BBQ covers and pool cabanas.

What’s a good first project for beginners?

The 10' x 10' Backyard Pergola or Three-Post Trellis are excellent starter builds. They use fewer materials, require less cutting, and are easier to assemble.

Do these plans show which connectors and fasteners to use?

Yes. Each design specifies Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, brackets, and fasteners required for safe and stable construction.

How do I know which plan is right for my yard?

Choose based on your available space, local conditions, and desired use. Simpson Strong-Tie’s plans include dimensions and layout examples to help visualize fit and scale.

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