After looking endlessly for a pergola to accommodate our backyard space, we came across TOJA Grid. A modular pergola system that is customizable! This was especially appealing to us because our home elevation is high and every other pergola we were looking at would have blocked our windows had we put them up. Standard heights were around 8 feet tall without getting one made and our space measures 10 feet high in order not to interfere with the window frames. Let me begin by saying that my husband is not a very handy man and to put together even a simple store-bought pergola would have been too much work for him. Looking at the TOJA Grid I can honestly say that even he could do this! Anyone who can build with LEGO and owns a simple power drill could easily make a structure with TOJA Grid – I may even attempt to do the add on’s myself – it’s that easy to do.
TOJA Grid is manufactured in Ontario, Canada and the system includes 14-gauge, powder coated steel hardware to withstand our powerful winters and windy summer weather and their sunshades are also weather-proof – because it takes true Canadian’s to know what Canadian’s need. The kit’s contain everything to make that pergola perfect, the hardware and brackets are included as well as the shades depending on which one you purchase. The amazing thing is that the lumber choices are endless and completely up to you. As long as you purchase 4X4 posts (like fence posts) you can decide which wood type you’d like to make your structure with! Wood can even be painted for a chic finish – imagine a fuchia pink pergola facing the ocean….ok now I’m dreaming!
**It is recommended that you use dried high quality lumber that will withstand weather. Teak, redwood and cedar will provided the best appearance are recommended.
Freestanding or Attached
Since the options are endless with these modular structures the TOJA Grid offers the option of creating both freestanding structures as well as attached. For our home, we chose to go with the attached option because we wanted ours to sit right against the wall to save room and function as an extension of our home. This meant less wood and a little extra drilling into the brick of our home. No doubt though, we will have it standing for many years to come so we didn’t mind at all. The shades are made of 100% HDPE woven fabric, pre-stretched, highly stable and non-organic. The fabric is stain resistant, does not allow mold growth and is rated to block 85% of UVA and UVB. They are not waterproof, however us they do a great job of blocking the sun and keeping us covered. I have seen so many DIY versions whereby individuals have attached waterproof shades or aluminium to the tops of the TOJA grid, so the options are endless and perhaps in our future as well.
We added some simple canvas drapes by adding a poll and some clips for that added little bit of ‘chic’ – also keeps us a tad more private from our neighbours.
If you are looking for a simple solution to your outdoor space then look no further than TOJA Grid. This company offers so much space to play around in terms of their product. Anything you envision will come to life easily and seemlessly with just a few screws, some wood and perfectly crafted brackets. We are thrilled with our new patio and we couldn’t be more happy to share it with our readers.
GREAT NEWS!! Get 20% off your purchase of TOJA Grid with code ‘LILSUGARMAG’
Start creating today!
Looking for a TOJA Grid retailer near you? Check out their store locator here
**Disclosure** As always all opinions on Lil-Sugar are my own. I was provided with TOJA Grid products in lieu of this post.
