Before choosing an Apex Pergola, measure the full installation area carefully. This helps confirm which size can fit, whether the pergola should be freestanding or wall-mounted, and whether the site may need additional preparation before installation.
Apex was formerly known as Master+. Some older manuals, packaging labels, or support materials may still use the Master+ name.
What you need before measuring
You will need:
A tape measure
Photos of the installation area
The approximate pergola size you are considering
Notes about the surface type
Notes about nearby walls, rooflines, gutters, windows, vents, railings, stairs, trees, or other obstructions
Take photos from multiple angles. This is especially helpful if you plan to ask Hanso Support about sizing or installation feasibility.
Step 1: Measure the width
Measure the full side-to-side space where the pergola will be placed.
Check for:
Walls
Fences
Railings
Outdoor kitchens
Stairs
Furniture
Landscaping
Neighboring structures
Do not only measure the seating area. Measure the full space where the pergola frame and posts may sit.
Step 2: Measure the depth or projection
Measure the front-to-back space where the pergola will extend.
For freestanding Apex Pergolas, measure the full area where the structure will stand.
For wall-mounted Apex Pergolas, measure from the wall outward to confirm how far the pergola can project into the space.
Make sure there is enough room for:
The pergola frame
Front posts
Base plates
Walking clearance
Furniture clearance
Installation access
Step 3: Measure the height
Measure the available height in the installation area.
For freestanding installations, check the height around the full pergola location.
For wall-mounted installations, measure the wall height and the available attachment area.
Check for:
Roof overhangs
Gutters
Fascia boards
Balconies
Light fixtures
Vents
Windows
Sloped ceilings or soffits
Step 4: Check overhead clearance
Apex has motorized louvers that rotate when opening and closing. Because of this, you need to allow enough overhead clearance above the pergola.
Please check that the opened louvers will not hit:
A ceiling
Roof overhang
Balcony
Tree branch
Light fixture
Beam
Any other overhead obstruction
As a general pre-check, allow at least 5–6 inches of clearance above the fully opened louvers when there is a ceiling, roof overhang, balcony, or other overhead obstruction. This clearance guidance is also listed in Hanso’s internal pre-sale checklist for pergolas.
Step 5: Mark possible post locations
Post locations are one of the most important parts of measuring.
For freestanding Apex Pergolas:
Single-bay sizes typically have 4 posts
Double-bay sizes typically have 6 posts
For wall-mounted Apex Pergolas:
Single-bay sizes typically have 2 front posts
Double-bay sizes typically have 3 front posts
Make sure the post areas are clear of:
Steps
Drains
Cracks
Paver edges
Deck seams
Railings
Outdoor furniture
Underground utilities
Sprinkler lines
Electrical lines
Each post must be properly anchored to a suitable surface.
Step 6: Check the installation surface
The installation surface affects whether the pergola can be safely anchored.
Common surfaces include:
Concrete
Pavers
Decking
Tile
Other patio surfaces
Before choosing a size, confirm:
The surface is level
The surface is strong enough for the pergola
The surface can be drilled or anchored
The post locations are not too close to an edge
There are no loose, cracked, or unstable areas
Additional footers or reinforcement may be needed, depending on the site
Apex cannot simply sit unsecured on the ground. Proper anchoring is required.
Step 7: Check wall-mounted requirements
For a wall-mounted Apex Pergola, the wall must be suitable for attachment.
Before choosing wall-mounted, check:
Wall height
Wall material
Structural support
Attachment location
Gutters
Fascia
Windows
Doors
Vents
Pipes
Trim
Electrical fixtures
A wall-mounted pergola should not be attached to a weak, unsupported, damaged, or unsuitable wall surface. If you are unsure, ask a qualified contractor to review the wall before ordering.
Step 8: Think about how you will use the space
When measuring, also think about the layout under and around the pergola.
Consider:
Outdoor dining table size
Lounge furniture
Grill or outdoor kitchen area
Walkways
Door swing
Pool clearance
Access to stairs or gates
Space for accessories such as sunshades or slat walls
A pergola may technically fit the area, but the space still needs to remain usable after the posts and furniture are in place.
When to ask about Professional Install Service
Hanso’s Professional Install Service may be available to help with installation planning and assembly.
This service is especially helpful if you are unsure about:
Which Apex size will fit best
Post placement
Wall-mounted feasibility
Deck or paver installation
Anchoring requirements
Clearance concerns
Double-bay installation
Complex site conditions
Professional installation availability may vary by location and project scope. Contact Hanso Support to check availability and next steps.
What to send Hanso Support for help
If you need help confirming size or installation feasibility, please send:
Photos of the installation area from multiple angles
Width measurement
Depth/projection measurement
Height measurement
Surface type
Preferred Apex size
Whether you want freestanding or wall-mounted
Any nearby obstructions
Your city and state, if asking about Professional Install Service
The more information you provide, the easier it is for Hanso Support to guide you.