What size oak pergola do I need?
Work back from furniture, movement space and the outside footprint—not just the clear space between posts.
Read the guidePlan before you order
Straightforward guides to choosing an oak pergola.
Practical answers on dimensions, costs, foundations, planning and assembly—written to help you make the right choices before the oak is cut.
How much does an oak pergola cost?
Understand how footprint, oak section, post count, braces, delivery and installation affect the finished price.
Read the guideWhat foundations does an oak pergola need?
Why every post needs a firm bearing point, and what to consider before lifting paving or pouring concrete.
Read the guideDo I need planning permission?
A careful starting point for height, boundaries, listed buildings and local restrictions across the UK.
Read the guideCan I build an oak pergola myself?
The tools, lifting help and preparation needed to assemble a heavy, traditionally jointed oak kit safely.
Read the guideGreen oak or seasoned oak?
How moisture, movement, surface checking and weathering affect the look and behaviour of an outdoor oak frame.
Read the guideWhat foundations does an oak pergola need?
Each post needs a suitable foundation and fixing arrangement designed for the frame and ground. Existing paving alone does not establish that the support is suitable. Share the proposed location, surface and ground levels before preparing the site.
Staddle stones lift the oak above the surrounding surface but still need suitable foundations below. Our standard kit options use four stones up to 4 m in either direction and six above 4 m. Foundation dimensions and anchorage must be confirmed for the project.
See granite and sandstone staddle stonesGreen oak, seasoning and weathering
Green oak is oak used before it has fully dried. Moisture changes can alter its dimensions and produce surface checking as it seasons. Fresh golden tones also weather towards silver-grey outdoors.
Our frames use traditional mortise-and-tenon joints and oak pegs. Ask about the supplied finish and care for your particular frame before applying a treatment. If a crack or movement concerns you, send photographs for assessment rather than assuming all movement is harmless.
Discuss the specification of your oak framePlanning guide
Do I need planning permission for an oak pergola?
In England, a domestic pergola may be permitted development when it stays within the relevant conditions and limits for outbuildings. That does not mean every pergola is automatically exempt.
Position, overall height, proximity to a boundary, the amount of garden covered and whether the home is listed or in designated land can all change the answer. Different rules and guidance apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Confirm the position and finished height before ordering. If there is any doubt, ask your local planning authority or obtain a lawful development certificate. Woodson & Son Oak cannot guarantee that a structure is exempt from permission.
Read the Planning Portal guidance for England Put the guide into practice