Learn how to install a structural fiberglass pergola column for a low-maintenance Trex Pergola kit on a deck, using our exclusive TensionRodTM mounting system with deck mount adapter. Our 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 888.908.4965
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 deck, 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
Drill
5/8″ x 8″ Wood Drill Bit
3/16” Metal Drill Bit
5/8″ x 12” Metal Drill Bit
Circular Saw With an Abrasive blade
Painter’s Tape
8′ High Step Ladder, we recommend using two
To get started you’ll need a piece of blocking to install under the deck. A piece of pressure treated 2×8 cut to fit between the joists of the deck will work just fine. This block will be attached under the decking and secured with wood screws through the joists on each side.
Now that the blocking is secured, a 5/8” hole needs to be drilled from the top of the deck, through the decking and blocking to allow the 1/2” threaded rod to pass through.
Next, an aluminum plate needs to be secured on the underside of the blocking with a nut and washer.
When installing the plate, if you’re working by yourself, place a washer and nut on the top of the threaded rod, that will keep it from falling through the hole.
After the threaded rod is added, place a piece of 2×8 bracing on the bottom of the joists. This will give additional support to keep the joists from rolling as lateral loads are placed on the columns.
Once you’re done under the deck you’re ready to move to the top of the deck and finish the deck mount column installation.
The next step is to add the aluminum base plate. If you used a nut and washer to keep the threaded rod from falling through the deck, be sure to remove them now. The purpose of this plate is to act as a base for the column leveling studs so they won’t dig into the decking and work loose over time.
Now, 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.
Then place the column leveling plate on top of the base plate.
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 turning the leveling studs by hand, however, when making final adjustments, an 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 these holes as a guide to drill through the base plate. Adding these screws 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.
Now you’re ready set the column, but before you do, remember two things:
First, You need to square the bottom of the column before setting it onto the column leveling plate. Apply painter’s tape to the column for marking as well as to protect the surface of the column from being scratched.
Also be sure to add the base trim to the bottom of the column before setting it in place.
Once the column is set into the leveling plate, add the long threaded rod from the top of the column and connect it to the coupler. Make sure the long threaded rod is fully tightened into the coupler.
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 structureworksfab.com