Installation Guide

Pergola Installation Guide
ModernPergolaKits.com | 3
STEP 1 – LAYOUT
All pergola kits are fabricated to
fit the size ordered. They CAN be
trimmed to fit a smaller space if
necessary. (See Step 1e. below)
View CAD drawings and
photos of installed pergolas
at modernpergolakits.com.
a) Determine necessary height
and post locations based
upon site – Make note of the
following measurements as
you will want these later:
a. Desired outside to outside
dimensions of your posts
b. Desired height to the
top of your beam
c. Desired direction of shade
purlins and rafters
d. If you desire to trim the
width of your pergola simply
determine your ideal size and
build accordingly. You can very
easily mount posts and trim the
appropriate beams and purlins as
you follow the installation steps.
e. IMPORTANT - If you desire to
trim the depth of your pergola
you must take into consideration
the purlin holders. To avoid
having a "half hole" in your roof
you should first remove the
purlin holder and determine
what trim length will allow you
to cut between the holes. This
same measurement can be then
applied to your post mount
spacing. You will trim each beam,
rafter and purlin holder in your
kit by this exact size as you
follow the installation steps.
b) IMPORTANT - Ensure posts are
SQUARE with each other and/or
any adjoining structure – NOTE:
If adding to an existing slab or
patio do not assume that they
are built square! The best way to
determine if things are square is
to measure diagonally from post
base to post base and adjust until
the diagonal measurements are
the same. A square post layout
will reduce installation time and
ensure an excellent fit and finish.
c) It is common that existing concrete
and paver patios are installed
with a certain degree of slope.
If slope is minimal (less than 1"
in 10’) you can simply disregard
it. If slope is more pronounced,
consider that your posts may be
differing lengths to allow pergola
roof to be level to horizon.
d) For challenging sites, custom
fabrication of pergolas to
your unique site is available,
please contact us.
Width Purlins
Depth Rafters
Figure 1.