Pergola installation: what happens from survey to finished frame

1. The survey

On survey we mark out where the pergola will sit, measure levels across the patio or lawn, and decide whether it fixes to the house on one side or stands freestanding on its own posts. We look at what is under the surface, because a post needs something solid beneath it, and at where the roof will shed water. This is also when you choose the roof type, frame colour and any extras.

2. The base and footings

Every post needs a firm base. On a sound concrete slab or solid paving, posts can often be bolted down on base plates. On lawn, soft ground or thin paving, each post usually needs its own concrete footing. Where footings are needed, they are dug and poured and given time to go off before the frame is loaded. If the patio is being relaid anyway, it is worth planning the pergola base at the same time.

Sound slab or solid paving: base plates bolted down

Lawn or soft ground: a concrete footing for each post

Sloping ground: posts set to keep the frame level

3. Standing and fixing the frame

The posts go up first and are set plumb, then the beams are fixed between them. On a wall fixed pergola the house side is fixed to the wall at the agreed height, with fixings chosen for what the wall is made of. Everything is checked for level and square before the roof goes on, because small errors here show up as louvres that do not close evenly or fabric that runs out of line.

4. Fitting the roof

For a louvred pergola, the blades and their drive are fitted and adjusted so they open, close and seal evenly. For a fabric roof, the guide rails and fabric are fitted and tensioned. An open beam pergola may simply have its top slats fixed. Gutters and downpipes are connected so water from a closed roof runs away through the posts or to a drain.

5. Electrics, lighting and heating

Motorised louvres, fabric roofs, LED lighting and heaters need a power supply. Where a new outside supply or spur is needed, that is planned on survey so the cable route is ready. Once connected, the motor limits are set, remotes paired and everything tested with you before we leave.

How to prepare for the day

A little preparation makes the install quicker and keeps your garden tidy.

• Clear furniture, pots and planters from the area
• Make sure there is access from the road to the garden
• Tell us about any buried pipes or cables you know of
• Have somewhere for the van to park
• Keep pets and children away from the work area

After the install

We show you how to use the controls and how to look after the roof, and hand over the warranty paperwork, which covers up to 10 years with the terms confirmed in writing. Keep louvres and gutters clear of leaves, and retract fabric roofs in strong wind. Our maintenance guide covers the seasonal checks.