Installing Guide

Professional Installation Strongly Recommended

  • While our aluminum pergolas are designed with precision and clarity in mind, we strongly recommend using a licensed and insured professional installer or a skilled handyman. Proper installation is crucial for:

  • Structural Integrity & Safety:

Ensuring your pergola is securely anchored to withstand local weather conditions.

  • Warranty Compliance:

Some warranty terms may require professional installation for validation.

  • Time & Peace of Mind:

Saving you effort and ensuring a perfect, worry-free result.

If you proceed with DIY installation, you do so at your own risk. Ensure you have the necessary skills, tools, helpers, and comply with all local building codes and regulations.
Pre-Installation: Planning & Preparation

1. Check Local Regulations: 

Before any work begins, contact your local council (city government) to determine if you need a building permit. Regulations vary by state and property type.

2. Site Inspection & Preparation:

  • Choose a Level Area: 

The installation site must be level and stable.

  • Check for Utilities:

Use a utility locator service (e.g., "Dial Before You Dig" - 1100 in Australia) to ensure there are no underground pipes, cables, or wires where you plan to dig or install footings.

  • Surface Type:

Identify your base surface (e.g., concrete slab, timber deck, compacted soil/pavers). This determines the anchoring method (see below).

3. Inventory & Tools:

Unpack Carefully:

Unpack all components in a clear, open area. Use the provided Packing List to verify all parts, panels, and hardware bags are present before starting.
Organize Parts:

 Group posts, beams, rafters, roofing panels, and hardware by type.
Required Tools:

You will likely need: Tape measure, spirit level, drill/driver with correct bits, socket/wrench set, hammer, ladder(s), safety gear (gloves, glasses), string line, and potentially concrete mixing tools.

Standard Installation Overview (Anchoring Methods)

Your pergola can be secured using one of these common methods, chosen based on your base surface:

A. Fixed to Concrete Slab (Most Common & Secure):

  • Use anchor bolts (galvanized or stainless steel, not supplied) drilled into the concrete.
  • Mark and drill precise holes in the concrete using a hammer drill and masonry bit.
    Insert chemical anchors or expansion bolts, then position the post base and tighten.

B. Fixed to Timber Deck:

 

  • Use heavy-duty timber screws or coach screws (not supplied).
  • Ensure screws are long enough to penetrate deeply into the deck joists below, not just the decking boards, for maximum strength.

    C. Surface Mounted on Pavers/Soil: 

  • This often requires pier footings. You must dig holes below the frost line/firm ground (consult local codes for depth, typically min. 500mm). 
  • Place a post stirrup/base in the hole, pour in pre-mix concrete, and use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly plumb and level before the concrete sets.
  • Once cured, the posts are bolted to these embedded stirrups.

General Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

Important: This is a generic guide. Always refer to the specific, detailed installation manual and diagrams provided with your pergola kit.

Step 1: Assemble the Main Frame on the Ground (if possible)

Lay out the four main posts.
2. Attach the side beams (headers) to the posts as per the manual. This often creates two "side frames" or a complete rectangular frame.
3. Check for Square: Measure diagonals from corner to corner. The frame is square when both diagonal measurements are equal.

Step 2: Position and Secure the Frame


1. With help, carefully lift the assembled frame into its final position on your prepared site.
2. Temporarily brace the posts to keep them upright and plumb.
3. Double-check for Level and Square: Use a long spirit level on the beams and re-check diagonal measurements.

Step 3: Anchor the Posts


Following the method (A, B, or C) appropriate for your base, securely anchor all four posts to the ground. Do not fully tighten anchor bolts until all posts are perfectly plumb.



Step 4: Install Cross Beams & Rafters

1. Attach any cross beams that run between the side headers.
2. Begin installing the rafters (the pieces that run from front to back, onto which the roof is attached).
3. Follow the manual's specified spacing (e.g., every 600mm). Use the provided brackets and bolts.

Step 5: Install Roofing Panels


1. Starting from the bottom (eaves), place the first roofing panel (polycarbonate, aluminum, etc.).
2. Use the recommended screws (usually with neoprene washers to prevent leaks) and fix them into the rafters. Do not over-tighten.
3. Overlap subsequent panels as instructed (e.g., over the rib of the previous panel).
4. Install any end caps or closure strips for a clean, finished look and to prevent debris/insect entry.

Step 6: Final Touches & Inspection

1. Install any decorative fascia, trim, or accessories.
2. Go around and perform a final tightening of all bolts and screws.
3. Do a thorough visual inspection. Ensure all connections are secure, the structure is rigid, and there are no sharp edges.

Safety First!

Never work alone. Always have at least one helper.
Use appropriate ladders and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Do not install in high winds, rain, or poor visibility.
Ensure all power tools are used correctly and cords are kept clear.

Need Help?


If you are unsure about any step, or if your site has unique challenges (sloping ground, high winds), stop and consult a professional. A poorly installed pergola is a safety hazard.

For further assistance, you can contact us for a list of recommended installers in your area, or refer to the contact details of the installer we partnered with for your delivery (if applicable).