Learn how to install a structural fiberglass pergola column for a low-maintenance Trex Pergola kit on a patio or footer, using our exclusive TensionRodTM mounting system. Structureworks’ unique TensionRod mounting system is easy to install and provides Trex Pergola with a secure foundation.
This video will save you time and help simplify the building of your Trex Pergola kit by walking you through the column installation process. We show you the tools that you’ll need and give you tips to assist in assembling your pergola.
If you have any questions about the installation process after watching this video, please contact us at 877.489.8064
Video Transcript
Hi, I’m Jake Panneton, Customer Care Coordinator at Structureworks and I’m going to show you how to install a pergola column on a patio or footer, using our TensionRod mounting system with deck mount adapter.
The tools you’ll need for this installation are:
Pencil
Torpedo level
4’ Level
Measuring Tape
Socket Wrench with 9/16″ Socket and 3/4″ Deep Socket
9/16” Open End Wrench
Impact Driver With Phillips and Square Drive Bits
5/16″ Nut Driver Bit
Drill
5/8″ x 8″ Metal Drill Bit
5/8″ x 8″ Masonry Drill Bit
3/16” Masonry Drill Bit
Circular Saw With an Abrasive blade
Sika Anchor Fix Epoxy
Shop Vacuum
Painter’s Tape
8′ High Step Ladder (two recommended)
Once you’ve measured and squared the pergola layout, you’re ready to install the first column. Using a drill with a 5/8” masonry drill bit, drill a 6” deep hole straight down into the concrete patio or footer. Remember, if you’re installing your pergola on a paver patio, please be sure to have a footer installed for each column, as pavers are not an acceptable anchor for a pergola.
After drilling use the shop vac to remove all of the concrete dust and particles from the hole, this will help the epoxy grip the concrete properly. Visually check that you haven’t drilled thru your patio slab or footer. If you have you’ll want to add sand to the bottom of the hole so that the epoxy doesn’t seep out.
The next step is to add the epoxy and set the threaded rod. I recommend doing this next step for each column in succession so the epoxy doesn’t have time to harden in the tube.
To add the epoxy, Start by inserting the nozzle of the tube as deep into the hole as possible and slowly retract while filling the hole with epoxy.
Then insert the 1/2” threaded rod into the hole using a twisting motion so the epoxy flows into the threads of the rod.
Keep the rod threads as clean as possible and make sure to remove any excess epoxy from around the base of the rod before it hardens.
You will have approximately 12” of threaded rod above the patio surface once completely inserted.
Allow the epoxy to cure according to the directions before moving onto the next step.
While waiting for the epoxy to cure, install the leveling studs and nuts into the four holes on the column leveling plate. Use one nut on the top side of the plate and one on the bottom side of the plate for each stud.
Once the epoxy has cured, place the column leveling plate over and down the threaded rod.
Using the four leveling studs and a torpedo level, make sure the plate is level as it will ensure that the column is plum when installed.
It’s easiest to make initial adjustments by lifting the plate and turing the leveling studs by hand, however as you get to the final adjustments a open end wrench works best.
Once the plate is level, tighten the top and bottom leveling stud nuts to ensure each stud is secured, then add a nut and washer to the threaded rod and tighten with a wrench to secure the plate.
The column leveling plate has four small holes to allow for installation of wood screws to further prevent column leveling plate movement. Use the holes as a guide to drill the base plate with a 10000″ drill bit. Secure the 4” tapcon screws, this will ensure that the mounting plates are tightened to the blocking and decking as much as possible.
Lastly, add a 1/2” hex nut and then the coupler by threading it half way onto the threaded rod, it will be used to connect to the long threaded rod once we have the column set in place. Tighten the hex nut and coupler together so that the coupler won’t turn when installing the long threaded rod.
The Trex Pergola beam must be drilled with a 5/8” drill bit to receive the 1/2” threaded rod to attach the beam to the column assembly. The top of the beam should be marked 2′ in from the end of the beam and 1 3/4″ from the front and back sides of the beam. If the beam cantilever has been adjusted, the measurement from the beam end will need to be adjusted as well.
It’s is critical that the hole is drilled straight and accurately to ensure the threaded rod will pass through the bottom hole and align with top hole.
Before setting the beam, the column capital, mid-trim, if provided, should be positioned on the column shaft.
Once the beam has been set into place you can add the storm load washer, flat washer and hex nuts. Be sure to tighten the hex nuts according to the instructions received with your pergola kit.
I hope this helps speed your pergola installation and remember if you have any questions about the installation process please contact us at trexpergola.com