Step 13
- With one person on each side, tilt the assembly up and drop the posts into the
postholes (or into the post bases if on concrete). Have your helper hold the assembly plumb.
(Note: For some of the larger size pergolas this step may require more help) Refill the holes
around the posts with dirt or dry concrete. If you are using concrete,
do not water it in yet
.
Check for level across the top of the beam and on the sides of the posts. If you are installing
the pergola on top of a concrete patio with post bases, you will need to prop the assembly up
so that it does not fall. Once you have the bottom of the posts in the post bases, put one screw
on each side to hold them in place.
Step 14
- Repeat step 15 for the other beam and post assembly.
Step 15
- Move your stepladder in between the two sides. Take one of the rafters and slide it
onto the outermost X mark on the beams just like you did on the ground. Now move to the
opposite side and slide another rafter into position on the outermost X mark. Now your helper
should be able to let go of the assembly.
Step 16
- Install all of the remaining rafters on the remaining X marks and secure them to the
beam with
3”
deck screws through the predrilled holes. (If on concrete, now is the time to finish
securing the posts to the bases.)
Step 17
- Place the top slats into position in the layout lines across the top of the rafters on the
lines labeled with an S and screw them down to the rafters. Start on one side and make your
way across to the other side screwing every other rafter. Stagger your screw pattern as
pictured below:
Make sure every top slat is screwed down on both end rafters as pictured. Also, make sure
you have the same overhang on all of the top slats. Be careful screwing the screws in because
stainless steel is a soft metal and they strip VERY EASILY!
Push down hard while
screwing them in. Make sure your screw gun is straight and that the square bit is inserted all
the way into the screw. There are extra screws in every kit just in case you strip some, but if
you need more you should be able to find them at any local hardware store. If you are having
