Assembling a Sunset Pergola is NOT the daunting task you may think it is. If you (with the help of a friend) can lift up to 80 pounds and can use a tape measure, level, drill and circular saw, you’re ready for a rewarding Do-It-Yourself weekend project.
When the kit is shipped to you, we provide fully illustrated step-by-step instructions (available in both English and Spanish), how-to videos for the trickiest steps, as well as CAD-style drawings. And if all that isn't enough, you can even Skype or FaceTime us for free "live" help.
If you don’t have (and don’t want to rent) the needed tools or cannot lift 80 pounds, we have a list of installers throughout the country who would be happy to install your pergola for you. These installers have 1) completed our installation training course, 2) passed a test we administer, and 3) already installed our pergolas multiple times (in most cases).
Pergola Kit Assembly Videos
The following assembly videos are not intended to replace the installation instructions. Rather, these videos highlight some of the more complex steps in the assembly process. Please note that you can click the 'CC' icon in the video toolbar to activate captions/subtitles.
Step 1: Layout and Cutting
Step 2 (Option A): Install Post Mounts to Deck Footings
Step 2 (Option B): Install Post Mounts to Concrete Slab or Column Top
Step 2 (Option C): Install Post Mounts to Concrete Footing
Step 3: Install Posts Over Post Mounts
Step 4 (Attached Pergolas Only): Attach Pergola Ledger to Structure
Step 5 (Option A): Install Beams (traditional method)
Step 5 (Option B): Install Beams Using Optional Attachment Brackets
Step 6: Attach Rafters
Step 7: Attach Purlin Holders
Step 8: Install Shade Purlins
Step 9: Install End Caps & Other Finishes
Pergola Kit Assembly FAQs
How many people will it take to assemble my Sunset Pergola?
Two. Ask a friend or spouse to help you, or consider hiring a local contractor (or even just a handyman on CraigsList). Do not try and assemble it on your own.
How difficult is the installation process?
It honestly isn’t very intense or complicated. There aren’t any “moving parts” and it’s pretty straightforward how everything fits together (even if you didn’t have detailed, fully illustrated step-by-step instructions like you will have). Even a novice in basic construction can assemble our pergola kits without much trouble at all.
How long will it take to assemble my pergola?
If you are getting the help of a contractor or handyman, the two of you should easily have it up in about a day (or even less). If you do it on your own, plan for two days. Also, if you are attaching it to your house or deck or need to dig footings, you will need to add some additional time. Either way, in one weekend you can have your pergola up and ready to enjoy.
What tools will I need to assemble the pergola?
You will need just a few basic tools to assemble your pergola. You’ll need a level, measuring tape, ladder, drill with a 6-inch extension, drill bits and drivers, and a circular or miter saw. That’ll do it!
Do I need a building permit to install a pergola?
It depends on a) where you live, b) where you are installing the pergola, and c) the size of the pergola. While every locality has its own regulations, most residential structures that are less than 150 square feet do not need a permit. If your pergola is part of a commercial structure, a permit and full engineering calculations are usually required. Contact your local building inspector’s office before installing the pergola.
Do you have drawings with an engineer’s stamp?
All of our standard pergola kits include CAD drawings detailing dimensions and construction (in addition to the step-by-step assembly instructions). If the building code official requires a stamp, we will happily refer you to a structural engineer who is familiar with our kits (additional fees may apply).
How heavy are the pergola components?
Most individual pergola components weigh between 10 and 40 pounds. Pergola beams, however, typically weigh between 50 and 85 pounds, depending on their length. Again, we recommend having two people unload the shipment and assemble the pergola.
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