Step 5: Lay the rafters

Step 5: Lay the rafters to build an arbor «»
Lay the 17½-foot-long rafters across the 2x8 beams, spacing them 20-inches on center. Attach each rafter with 3½-inch decking screws driven down at an angle into the 2x8s. Place screws alternately on one side of the rafter and then the other to hold each one straight up on edge.
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    Tools List

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    • bit auger
      Auger bit
    • drill
      Drill
    • 30-foot tape measure
      Tape measure
    • finish hammer
      Hammer
    • router
      Router

    Shopping List

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    1. 8x8 POSTS

    6 required



    2. 2x8 CROSS BEAMS

    6 required



    3. 2x6 RAFTERS

    7 required



    4. 1x2 LATTICE STRIPS

    9 required



    5. 1x3 TRIM

    applied around tops of each post



    6. 3/4-INCH-DIAMETER X 42-INCH-LONG GALVANIZED-METAL PIPE

    used to hold posts in place



    7. PRIMER AND PAINT OR STAIN

    8. 2- AND 3-INCH DECKING SCREWS

    9. CONCRETE MIX

    for creating poured-concrete footings



    10. 2 1/2-INCH GALVANIZED FINISHING NAILS

    used to attach 1x3 trim to posts



    11. WOOD PRESERVATIVE

    used to treat the ends of the posts



    12. 1/2-INCH PRESSURE-TREATED PLYWOOD

    cut into 7 [FRACTION 1/2]-inch-square fastening plates