This article is sponsored by Simpson Strong-Tie. All opinions are my own.
If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a cozy shade structure or an outdoor entertaining area, a pergola is one of the most dramatic transformations you can add to a backyard.
But after building pergolas every possible way — custom joinery, prebuilt metal systems, and everything in between — I can confidently say that the Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® Sage System™ is the fastest, easiest, and most beautiful DIY pergola kit I’ve ever used.
This is my full Simpson Strong-Tie Sage System review, plus a simple guide for how to build a pergola with the Sage System, what lumber you need, what comes in the kit, and some backyard pergola ideas for inspiration.
What Is the Sage System™?
The Sage System is a beautifully designed DIY pergola kit built around black powder-coated steel connectors. These include:
- Post bases
- Corner brackets
- T-connectors
- Decorative hardware
- Optional woven sun shades
The system is beginner-friendly, strong, and designed to give homeowners a magazine-worthy pergola without complex carpentry.
What Comes in This DIY Pergola Kit
We built two pergolas, each a different size:
- 10×20 double-wide pergola with two sun shades (our backyard)
- 10×10 single pergola with one sun shade (my parents’ & Nonna’s yard)
10×20 Pergola Kit Includes:
- 6 post feet
- 4 corner connectors
- 2 center T-connectors
- 2 sun shades (10×10 each)
- All screws + installation bit
10×10 Pergola Kit Includes:
- 4 post feet
- 4 corner connectors
- 1 sun shade (10×10)
- All necessary hardware
The matte-black screws blend beautifully once installed and give the pergola a clean, high-end finish.
The Backyard Transformations
For the 10×20 pergola, I pictured a space that could go from “evening dinner party under fairy lights” to “lounging with the kids in the shade.” Cozy couches? Definitely happening.
For the 10×10 pergola at my parents’ home, we aimed for a warm, Tuscan-inspired outdoor hangout — and the Sage System delivered exactly that vibe.
Step 1: Choose Your Lumber Size
The Sage System connectors come in two sizes:
- For 4×4 lumber
- For 6×6 lumber
We used 4×4 for both projects.
If you aren’t using the sun shade, you can build almost any footprint you want.
However, with the shade included, the pergola must be one of the following sizes to ensure proper canopy fit:
- 8×8, or
- 10×10
Step 2: Lumber Shopping List
For a 10×20 double-wide pergola:
- 6 × 8-ft boards
- 7 × 10-ft boards
For a 10×10 pergola:
- 4 × 8-ft boards
- 4 × 10-ft boards
Pro Tip:
If you want to hang something heavy (like a swing), contact Simpson Strong-Tie’s engineering team. They’ll help you confirm proper load ratings.
Step 3: How to Build a Pergola With the Sage System
This is the simplest pergola build I’ve ever done. Here’s the general process we followed:
1. Install your posts
Secure 4×4 posts into each base.
2. Attach corner and T-connectors
The entire frame comes together quickly thanks to the bracket system.
4. Add beams and cross-beams
This is when it starts looking like a real pergola.
5. Install your sun shade (optional)
These clip on easily and provide beautiful, functional shade.
Honest Simpson Strong-Tie Sage System Review
What I Loved:
- ✔ Very fast assembly
- ✔ Beginner-friendly
- ✔ High-end black hardware
- ✔ Clean, modern aesthetic
- ✔ Strong + engineered
- ✔ Customizable footprint
- ✔ Hardware included (lifesaver!)
Things to Know:
- You’ll need a helper for lifting beams
- Choose straight lumber for best results
- Shades determine final size
- Stain or paint BEFORE assembly to save time
Pergola Ideas for Your Backyard
Looking for ways to use a pergola? Here are a few:
✔ Outdoor dining area
Long table + bistro lights = instant dreamy evenings.
✔ Lounge zone
Add a sectional and soft lighting for a resort feel.
✔ Poolside cabana
Framing a pool with a pergola looks architectural and elegant.
✔ Garden pergola
Let climbing plants add romance and shade over time.
✔ Firepit hangout
Create a warm, intimate space with cozy seating.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a DIY pergola kit that’s easy, strong, beginner-friendly, and beautiful, the Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® Sage System™ is absolutely worth it.
Both of our pergolas turned out better than I imagined, and the build was fast and enjoyable — even for someone who’s done it the “hard way” before.
If you build one, tag me on Instagram — I’d love to see your transformation!
Until next time,
Oli
