Hello, I am planning on building a cedar pergola in my backyard. What is the best fastener to use for this project? The posts will be 6" x 6" x 12' and I'll be using 2" x 6" and 2" x 4" for beams. I am thinking about using either bolts with washers and nuts, or easier would be self tapping screws. I am thinking galvanized is called for here to stand up to the weather.

Thanks!

 

It will be pricey but considering the cost of the material (cedar) I would probably go with stainless steel.

Galvanized coatings on fasteners will eventually bleed through and stain the cedar.

If your local hardware store can't get what you need, try a boat yard - they deal with stainless fittings all the time.

 

I agree with George, stainless will be your best bet. Use either square drive or torx drive to eliminate skipping and stripping of the head. I have a guy on ebay that I get mine from. Not cheap, but cheaper than retail.