📐 Why Footers Matter
Each pergola post is secured to the ground through a steel-reinforced baseplate (see Baseplate Measurement Guide).
The baseplate must be anchored to a level, solid surface capable of handling wind and snow loads as specified in the Pro+ engineering standards.
Correct footer preparation ensures:
✅ Structural stability
✅ Proper water drainage
✅ Long-term alignment
✅ Simplified installation
⚙️ Standard Concrete Footer Specification
Parameter | Recommended Dimension |
Footer Size (Per Post) | 400 × 400 × 400 mm (16″ × 16″ × 16″) |
Concrete Strength | Minimum 25 MPa / 3,600 PSI |
Rebar Reinforcement | 2–3 horizontal + 2 vertical rebars per footing |
Anchor Bolt Type | M10–M12 expansion bolts (3/8″–½″) or equivalent |
Anchor Depth | Minimum 75 mm (3″) embedment into solid concrete |
Level Tolerance | ≤ 3 mm variation across baseplates |
💡 Tip: Always verify that the surface is completely level before drilling anchor holes.
🏗️ Installation Scenarios
Different patios and decking types may require adjusted installation methods:
1️⃣ Concrete Patio or Slab (Most Common Setup)
Best for: New or existing concrete patios at least 4″ thick.
Installation Steps:
Position pergola posts using Post-to-Post Measurements.
Drill anchor holes with an M12 masonry bit (min. 3″ depth).
Insert expansion bolts or wedge anchors through the baseplate.
Tighten bolts gradually and check level with a laser or bubble level.
Seal around anchor edges with exterior-grade silicone.
✅ Recommended: Fastest and most stable installation method.
⚠️ Avoid: Mounting on cracked or uneven slabs without reinforcement.
2️⃣ Paver Patio (Concrete or Stone Pavers)
Best for: Paver or stone patios with compacted sub-base.
Installation Options:
Option A – Core Drill: Cut paver section and pour individual concrete footers below.
Option B – Hidden Footers: Excavate and install concrete blocks flush with paver level, then mount baseplate on top.
Steps:
Remove paver tiles at each post location.
Excavate hole (16″ × 16″ × 16″).
Fill with concrete and embed anchors (or drill once cured).
Replace paver edges neatly around the baseplate.
💡 Tip: Use paver edging sand or silicone to reseal joints around the post.
3️⃣ Composite Decking or Wood Decks
Best for: Raised decks with accessible joist framing below.
Installation Options:
Option A – Through-Bolt to Joist Reinforcement
Mount baseplate directly to a reinforced 4×4″ or 6×6″ post blocking beneath the decking.
Option B – Below-Deck Concrete Footers
Cut decking at post locations and anchor to footers poured beneath the surface.
Steps:
Identify joist layout below decking.
Add reinforcement blocking beneath each post location.
Drill through decking and secure baseplate with bolts and washers.
Seal all penetrations to prevent water ingress.
⚠️ Note: Do not install directly on top of hollow composite planks without structural support below.
4️⃣ Natural Ground / Soil Installation (No Existing Slab)
Best for: New patio builds or bare backyard installations.
Steps:
Mark post layout based on your model’s Post-to-Post Measurement Guide.
Dig holes at least 16″ × 16″ × 16″ (400 × 400 × 400 mm).
Pour concrete footers with rebar grid for stability.
Ensure all four (or six) footers are perfectly level and aligned.
Allow at least 72 hours curing before installation.
💡 Tip: Extend rebar slightly above surface for extra anchoring if desired.
5️⃣ Tiled Surfaces (Over Concrete)
Best for: Porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone tile over slab.
Steps:
Use a diamond drill bit to drill through tile and underlying slab.
Insert anchors directly into the concrete base layer.
Use rubber washers to prevent tile cracking during tightening.
Seal with clear silicone after installation.
💡 Tip: Avoid mounting if tiles are hollow-set or installed on adhesive only.
🧰 Recommended Tools
Hammer drill + masonry bit set
Torque wrench
Level / laser level
Tape measure
Concrete anchors (M10–M12)
Sealant gun + silicone
Safety gear (gloves, goggles, ear protection)
⚠️ Important Safety & Quality Notes
Only install on solid, non-flexing surfaces.
Always allow new concrete to cure for at least 72 hours before anchoring.
Avoid installing over insulated foam layers or loose gravel bases.
Never mount posts directly onto soil or pavers without structural footers.
Use corrosion-resistant anchors for coastal or humid environments.
🧭 Reference Dimensions
Measurement | Metric (mm) | Imperial (in / ft) |
Standard Baseplate Width | 180 mm | 7.09″ |
Standard Baseplate Depth | 140 mm | 5.51″ |
Recommended Footer Size | 400 × 400 × 400 mm | 16″ × 16″ × 16″ |
Typical Anchor Depth | 75 mm | 3″ |
💡 Tip: Verify footer spacing and orientation using the specific model’s Post-to-Post Measurement Chart before pouring.