How to Build a Garden Arbor and Bench

Mark the ground 26 ½ inches apart front to back and 68 ½ inches apart side to side. Use a posthole digger to dig holes that are 6 inches in diameter and 30 inches deep on the marked locations.

Pour 6 inches of rock into each hole. With a partner, carefully set the arbor in place. Check and adjust the arbor to make sure it's level, adding or removing rock as needed.

If you’re using pre-cut deck balusters, attach them to your crossbeams at equal intervals. Secure with adhesive and screws.  

For the arbor shown here, bore holes for the copper pipes just like you did for the sides. More detailed steps are shown in the video and building diagram.

For a standard arbor, the easiest way to do this is to lay two posts on the ground and attach the lattice to each pair of posts. Just make sure you measure and keep everything even. Then, secure your crossbeams to each pair of posts.  

For the arbor shown here, refer to the video and building diagram.

Make sure each post is plumb and level. Mix and fill the holes with concrete, sloping the cement at the top away from the post to promote water runoff. Secure with 2x4 braces and remove the braces after the concrete cures.

Stain or paint the arbor a color of your choice. Use a clear stain to let the wood grain show through or disguise any imperfections with a coat of dark stain. White paint will give your finished arbor a clean look and is easy to touch up later.