Choosing the right wood is essential for building a strong and durable pergola or terrace. The most expensive material is not always necessary. Properly dried, planed and protected timber is often the simplest and most practical choice.

For the pergola frame, spruce or pine is a reliable solution. Garden Pergola structures commonly use:

• 95 × 95 mm beams for support posts and the main frame;
• 45 × 95 mm beams for the roof structure;
• 145 × 28 mm boards for terrace flooring.

Pine

Pine is strong, widely available and suitable for both pergola structures and terrace boards. It absorbs protective treatment well, which makes pressure-treated pine especially suitable for outdoor use.

Pine usually has a more visible grain and more knots than spruce. It is a practical choice for posts, beams, floor frames and terrace decking.

Spruce

Spruce is lighter, easy to cut and commonly used for structural beams and roof construction. It has a smooth, light appearance and creates a clean finish when planed and painted.

Spruce should be carefully protected from moisture because it does not absorb preservative treatment as deeply as pine. It is best suited for pergola posts, roof beams and other parts that are protected with high-quality exterior paint or stain.

Other timber options include:

• Larch – naturally attractive and weather-resistant, but it may crack and turn grey over time.
• Thermally modified wood – stable, durable and elegant, but more expensive.
• Cedar – naturally resistant and beautiful, although usually less affordable.

Regardless of the wood species, protect all cut ends, keep posts away from direct soil contact and leave small gaps between terrace boards for ventilation and drainage.

For most projects, the simplest and most stable combination is planed spruce or pine for the pergola structure and pressure-treated pine for the terrace floor. With proper installation and regular maintenance, this combination can remain strong and attractive for many years.