Installation Guidelines

• Installing the threaded rod into the anchor coupler: Use two people to perform this step: one to lift the column up and hold it steady and another to insert wooden blocks and guide the rod into the coupler. Raising the column about 8″ off the ground will allow to reach in and position the rod into the anchor. Use blocks to hold up the column. Use another person to hold the column steady while you position the rod into the anchor. Turn the rod several times to secure it into the anchor coupler before removing the blocks. 
• Placing the top plate/column cap: Hold the cap and the column together to line up with the threaded rod. The rod will go through the hole into the top plate. This may require tilting the top of the column slightly to line up.
• Securing the column: Do not overtighten the nut on top of column. If the top plate bows inward while fastening the top nut, loosen it slightly.
• Avoid bowing the rafter supports: Set the clutch on your screw driver or drill at a point where the self-tapping screws do not cause the fiberglass rafter supports to bow. These parts are hollow and will flex inward if there is too much tension from the screws.
• Fastening deck plates: If you are installing the pergola on top of a deck, make sure lag bolts you select are long enough to go all the way through the deck boards into joists below. You may need to install additional joists below the deck to ensure the lag screws are secured into the framing not just the deck boards.