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SECTION 3 – MAIN RUNNERS
The main runners are 2x6’s that have decorative cuts on both ends (unless a special
order). They have markings on the top for the top runners.
Note about spacing:
Generally both the main and top runners are spaced 16” on center
unless you order other spacing. Since the first runner on each side will align with the
edge of the top plate as explained below, the spacing may need adjusted. This is done
during production and the marks made accordingly. Most importantly, the top runners
have notches that coincide with the calculations made. Never change the placement of the
main runners, or the top runners will
not
fit.
Since the top runners have notches, the overhangs cannot be adjusted later. These runner
notches are “symmetrical” but the markings will be backwards if not arranged correctly.
It is a good idea to lay all the runners down next to each other to make sure the lines and
X's are aligned. Make sure not to flip the direction when installing.
1.
Set the First Main Runner
: As discussed in the previous section, two
sides of the top plate are lined with marks to guide your runner placement.
Set the first 2x6 runner on the corresponding top plate marks at the outer
sides. The end runners are set about ¼” from the edge of the runners. Do
not flush the runner to the end of the top plate. Set the first runner. Next,
adjust the runner placement back and
forth until each overhang has an equal
measurement. (Hint: you can “split the
distance” to center the pergolas) For
example, if you have a measurement of
2” on one side and 1 ½” on the other
side, the difference is ½”. Moving the
runner just ¼” will center it. Once the
overhang measurement is the same,
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remember this measurement for other runners.
2.
Attach First Main Runner
: When the runner has an equal overhang on
each side, attach it to the frame by inserting a 2 ½” screw from the
underside of the top plate up into the runner on both sides. For the two
outside runners only, use screws through the top plate into the runner for
the full length of the runner – approx. every 24”.
Note about markings:
Each mark consists of a line
and an “X”. The line represents the side of the 2x6
runner, and the X means that the board will be
placed to that side of the line.
3.
Set and Attach Remaining Main
Runners
: Set the next runner over the
markings. Ensure that the overhangs are
equal to each other and the preceding
runner’s overhang. Attach with 2 ½”
screws on the outside, up through the
bottom of the top plate and into the
bottom of the runners. Do this for the
rest of the main runners.
4.
Double Check Spacing
: Double check spacing by using two of the top
runners. Set each on the main runners and make sure that the notches in the
top runners slide down over the main runners. Do this on both ends, above
the beams. If one or more of the notches do not line up, unscrew that
runner and reposition it so that it fits.
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remember this measurement for other runners.
2.
Attach First Main Runner
: When the runner has an equal overhang on
each side, attach it to the frame by inserting a 2 ½” screw from the
underside of the top plate up into the runner on both sides. For the two
outside runners only, use screws through the top plate into the runner for
the full length of the runner – approx. every 24”.
Note about markings:
Each mark consists of a line
and an “X”. The line represents the side of the 2x6
runner, and the X means that the board will be
placed to that side of the line.
3.
Set and Attach Remaining Main
Runners
: Set the next runner over the
markings. Ensure that the overhangs are
equal to each other and the preceding
runner’s overhang. Attach with 2 ½”
screws on the outside, up through the
bottom of the top plate and into the
bottom of the runners. Do this for the
rest of the main runners.
4.
Double Check Spacing
: Double check spacing by using two of the top
runners. Set each on the main runners and make sure that the notches in the
top runners slide down over the main runners. Do this on both ends, above
the beams. If one or more of the notches do not line up, unscrew that
runner and reposition it so that it fits.