Prepare Pergola Structure & Wrap Beams

What happens here

Begin by ensuring the final rafter of the pergola is perfectly level across its entire span, from the outside edge back to the house. Next, wrap the exterior of the main beam structure with 7 1/4 inch dark slate material. This creates a shadow box detail that will later house built-out columns and provide a crucial tie-in point for the polycarbonate roofing system. The wrapping includes using half-inch plywood to pack out the beam, followed by a 2x4, and then another layer of 7 1/4 inch dark slate.

Goal: The initial steps involve leveling the final rafter of the pergola and wrapping the main beam with dark slate material. This wrapping creates a box-like structure essential for integrating the columns and the polycarbonate roofing system.