Installation Guide

6 | Pergola Installation Guide
Step 3 – Install Posts over Post Mount
a) Double check desired height
of pergola roof and mark each
aluminum post mount at the
top of the beam – simplest way
(short of using a laser level) is
to quick clamp your beams to
your post mounts and mark the
mount at the desired height.
b) Cut aluminum post mount 8 ½"
below this mark - Use any circular
saw with a non-ferrous blade. It is
important that the cut be as square
as possible. This will help the Post
Top Plate to sit level. We recommend
that you trace your cut line around
the post with a speed square.
c) Slide the Post Mount Standoff
over each post. These provide a
friction tight fit between the post
and post mount. They will sit on
the top of the post mount plate
and do not need to be fastened.
d) Insert the Post Top Plate into
the top of your post mount.
e) Attach Post Top Plate to the
post mount with fasteners
labeled "post top plate to post
mount". This connection proves
a surface to attach your pergola
box beams and prevents uplift
of your post under high winds.
f) Cut 7x7 vinyl post to proper height
– First measure from the base of
post mount to the top of the Post
Top Plate. Cut your vinyl post 9"
longer than this measurement.
a. Make sure to cut from the
correct end of the post.
This is the end without the
routed slot for the beam.
b. Remember, your vinyl post will
stick up 1" taller than the top
of the 2x8 box beam to allow
room to fit in the post cap.
c. If the bottom of your post will be
visible upon completion you will
want to take extra time to ensure
to cut the post off as square as
possible. This is best done by
tracing your cut line around the
post with a speed square and
cutting carefully and slowly.
g) Slide the post over the top of the
mount. If you purchased the post
skirts, slide those over the post next.
h) Repeat this step for each post.
Step 4 – Attach Ledger to Structure
Attached Pergolas Only
a) Secure ledger to structure ensuring
it is centered on pergola
b) Fasteners – Necessary
fasteners for Ledger are NOT
provided in kit. Requirements
determined by structure.
c) If removing siding, ensure
that ledger plate is properly
flashed and sealed.
d) If ledger is installed over top
of siding, ensure that top and
sides are caulked adequately.
2"x8" Box Beam
Heavy Bead
Silicone Caulk
Attach Box Beam / Rafter to
Hanger w/ fasteners provided
Rafter Hanger with
(6) 3½" Heavy Shank Screws
(Screws Not Provided)
Reinforced aluminum insert
House Rim
Siding
Sheathing
PVC Ledger Plate
1"x12"
Figure 2b