I started working on the framing as soon as the posts and the fireplace were finished, but took a break in the middle for a few days when the patio pavers were laid. Once complete, I had a nice stable paver patio to setup my two ladders, and I sure needed it. To start out framing, I notched the 6×6 posts to accept the 2×8’s and metal framing. I welded two metal frames to support the main beam. Sure, steel probably was not necessary, but I wanted an exceptionally strong structure, and I wanted an excuse to weld something. I did calculate the main beam size using architectural guidance, and then went up one size. The Glulam beams were actually visually interesting, especially after I put on the weatherproofing topcoat. As I special ordered the Glulam’s and didn’t want to hold up progress if I made a mistake, I prototyped each cut for the beams out of an equivalent 2x material. Also, this had the advantage of being a lot lighter to check the fit of the 2x rather than the Glulam. Once I had it perfect, I was able to lay out the cuts on the Glulam from the 2x prototype. Putting up these beams was definitely not a one man job, so for the main beam, I can thank my father-in-law for helping, and for all of the others, proud to thank my wife for all the help. With all the beams in place, I knew that the structure was exactly the look I was looking to achieve. Finishing the framing consisted of adding the remaining joists and hardware. I used standard roofing hardware to secure most of the joints, but painted all of them my favorite Oil Rubbed Bronze spray paint. During this phase, I definitely made good use of a a sun shade to get makeshift shade while I worked. This phase was a lot of fun, with a lot of challenges mixed in. One challenge was one of the post support brackets set in concrete was close to an inch out of alignment, leading to a lot of custom adjustments. Problem solving is part of it, and part of the enjoyment of the final product!