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On average, a prefabricated pergola kit takes one to four hours to build. Prefabricated pergolas are the fastest to install and could save you money, while custom pergolas can take several days to install, ranging from eight to 16 hours. The number of workers on the project can also impact how long it takes to install a pergola. 

If you need to build a concrete slab, level your property, or remove obstacles from your yard before building a pergola, then your project could take several weeks to complete.

A pergola needs to be anchored, and typically, concrete is the best anchor option. Pergolas should be anchored to a concrete slab or concrete footings, and this is commonly required by municipal building codes. When applying for a permit to install a pergola, be sure to check the anchoring requirements as well.

Yes, many kinds of building permits exist for various projects in and outside your home. Each city sets the permit categories, but they typically cover new construction, alterations, and demolition. For example, you will need a different permit to finish a basement than you would tear down the patio.

Though this is a project that can be DIY-ed—there are kits available for $600 to $7,500—hiring a pergola pro will ensure the final product is structurally sound. A savvy homeowner may already have all the necessary tools and know-how to build a DIY pergola, but the difference in cost isn’t that much, and having help will make the process easier in general.