Installation Guide

Pergola Installation Guide
ModernPergolaKits.com | 7
Step 5 – Install Perimeter Box Beams
(Freestanding Pergola)
a) If you trimmed the width or depth of
your pergola follow items 1-3 below.
If not proceed to letter b) below.
1. Plan out the length of each box
beam (2x8) according to figure
5a. Note that freestanding and
attached pergolas have different
methods of lapping the beam.
2. Start by measuring at the post
base, the outside to outside
of each post on your pergola
(Figure 5a). Write these down
on the top of each box beam.
3. Cut the beams 2 ½" under
this measurement.
b) Using the step bit drill two large
holes in the top of each beam
according to figure 5b. No need
to worry about cosmetics here,
these holes will be covered later.
c) Using a helper, lift and set the
beams into your posts ensuring to
lap the beams as per figure 5a.
d) Using your driver and 12"
extension, fasten the beam to
the Post Top Plate using the
fasteners labeled "beam to post".
e) Set the beam attachment bracket
in the inside corner of each
beam intersection (Figure 5b).
f) Using a driver extension and the
pre-drilled holes in the post, attach
each bracket to post stiffener
with fasteners labeled "beam
attachment bracket" You DO
NOT need to fill every hole on the
bracket, four per side is sufficient.
g) Insert the post cap into each
post. This cap should sit ¼" below
the top edge of the post.
h) Fasten the post cap to the
top of the box beams with
fasteners labeled "post cap."
i) Install
5
⁄
8
" plugs into the holes
on the side of the post.
j) Repeat this step for each
beam and post connection.
7" sq. Post
Correct Lapping of Box Beams
2"x8" Box Beam
2"x8" Box Beam
2"x8" Box Beam
2"x8" Box Beam
Measure Outside to Outside at Post Base
Measure Outside to Outside at Post Base
2"x8" Box Beam
Drill Holes
2"x8" Box Beam
7" sq. Post
Beam Attachment Bracket
Figure 5bFigure 5a