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.
Square the Brackets
: It is a good idea to recheck the square of the brackets by
measuring opposing corners, similar to what was done when squaring the
template. Also be sure that the brackets are parallel with the other brackets. The
brackets can be rotated until they are aligned properly. Keeping the template in
place will ensure that the brackets do not spin. Once satisfied with their location,
install one tapcon screw (not included) in one of the remaining holes in the base
of the bracket to keep it from spinning. Use one of the 2 ½” screws instead of a
tapcon on wood decks. Now remove the template.
8.
Post Bases:
Notice that there is a top and bottom
of each post. The top is square, and the bottom of the
posts have 45 degree angle cuts creating an octagon
when looking at them from the bottom.
There is a top
trim for the post base, made of four 2x2’s, that will go
onto the posts first, then the 36” tall post bases. Do not
attach the base trim to the posts.
9.
Secure Post Base
: Secure the post base above the
angled cuts so that the posts will attach to the bracket in the
next step. One screw will hold the base up until the connection
is made to the brackets.
10
.
Install the Posts
: Slide the posts into the brackets so
that the bracket prongs are at the corners of the posts and sitting flat on the
bracket. Attach it using 2 ½” stainless steel screws (12 screws per post, 3 on each corner).
Do this on all posts before proceeding to the next step.
NOTE: A hole has been drilled on the bottom of each post. The nut and the top of
the wedge bolt should fit inside the hole so that the bottom of the posts rests on the
bracket plate, and not on the wedge bolt. If the wedge bolt prevents the post from
sitting on the plate, fix this by either cutting the top of the wedge bolt threads (above
the nut) or by drilling the hole deeper.
SECTION 2 – BEAMS
Note: The beams are pre-built and include 45 degree braces. Help is needed when
installing beams. Ideally, a minimum of 3 people one to hold each end of the beam in
place and one to screw to the posts. Some of the beams can be up to 16’ long and weigh
over a hundred pounds.
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Each beam will be comprised of: (A) a double beam -
two 2x6’s together; (B) a 2x4 bottom plate that will
hide the seam of the two 2x6 beams; (C) two “legs”
(one on each end), which are 1x4’s that will hold the
beam to the posts; and (D) two 45 degree braces.
Some pergolas may have larger members due to
customized or increased strength required, but the
basic beam assembly is the same.
1.
Install the Beams
: Though there is no set order, it
usually works best to install the shorter beams first.
Allowing a better feel for how they are done using
lighter beams. Lift the beam into place until the top of
the beam is flush with the top of the posts and
centered. Secure each beam with five 2½” screws –
three on the leg, one below the brace and two above.
(As shown to the right) There is also one screw on an
angle on both sides of the beam driven into the posts.
Do this on all connections to the posts.
2.
Do the Same for Longer Beams:
Note: If the pergola is over 16’ long, there will
be a center post, making two sets of beams for each side of the pergola. Installing
the beams is the same no matter how long or how many beams there are.
3.
Install the Top Plate
: The top plate is a piece of 2” x 8” wood that is precut to fit
on top of the beams. Rest all 4 pieces on top of the beams. Arrange them so that
they fit tight at the corners. (NOTE: On larger pergolas, there may be more than 4
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4
Each beam will be comprised of: (A) a double beam -
two 2x6’s together; (B) a 2x4 bottom plate that will
hide the seam of the two 2x6 beams; (C) two “legs”
(one on each end), which are 1x4’s that will hold the
beam to the posts; and (D) two 45 degree braces.
Some pergolas may have larger members due to
customized or increased strength required, but the
basic beam assembly is the same.
1.
Install the Beams
: Though there is no set order, it
usually works best to install the shorter beams first.
Allowing a better feel for how they are done using
lighter beams. Lift the beam into place until the top of
the beam is flush with the top of the posts and
centered. Secure each beam with five 2½” screws –
three on the leg, one below the brace and two above.
(As shown to the right) There is also one screw on an
angle on both sides of the beam driven into the posts.
Do this on all connections to the posts.
2.
Do the Same for Longer Beams:
Note: If the pergola is over 16’ long, there will
be a center post, making two sets of beams for each side of the pergola. Installing
the beams is the same no matter how long or how many beams there are.
3.
Install the Top Plate
: The top plate is a piece of 2” x 8” wood that is precut to fit
on top of the beams. Rest all 4 pieces on top of the beams. Arrange them so that
they fit tight at the corners. (NOTE: On larger pergolas, there may be more than 4