Our pergola is 8 x 12 and rests on concrete footings using stand-off post bases. The rafters are nested (notched) so are effectively 2 x 6's. No braces, no racking problem.

My issue with posts into the ground is they can't be replaced and ALL posts set into the ground have a limited life. You should be able to at least locate an "L" anchor into the concrete with good accuracy and the post bases allow for adjustment of an inch or so. That would be my recommendation, otherwise you seem good.

I've linked our patio. If you go onto the second page there are photos of the pergola assembly where you can see the post bases. Hope this helps.

Here is a link that might be useful: Patio and Pergola

Thank for the response. Your yard/pergola look awesome! Did you notch the posts yourself or did you buy them pre-cut? If you cut them, what type of saw did you use?

Thanks for the endorsement. 18 years of continuous change.

The pergola is entirely DIY - design, fabrication and assembly. VERY careful measurements. Drilled holes at the corners, then made the notch cuts with a circular saw as far as possible and finished with a hand saw. Cut the narrow edge using a saber saw. Cleaned corners using a chisel. Following assembly, I installed a lag screw at each nested connection. The ogee ends were also cut using a saber saw. My double outside rails are not notched into the post, rather lag bolted using two, 1/2" bolts (2 each direction, 4 at each corner). Post are 6 x 6 pressure treated then skinned with cedar.

Been standing over 7 years though the footings were set as part of the patio build in 1998. Good luck with yours.

Here is a picture of our newly built pergola and patio. We have kiwis that will cover the pergola by next year.