Fiberglass Pergola Builder

Freestanding pergola: A freestanding fiberglass pergola is not attached to a building and requires at least four structural fiberglass columns to support

Attached pergola: An attached fiberglass pergola is attached to an existing structure with a custom-made fiberglass ledger board and is supported by at least two structural fiberglass columns.

Freestanding Pergola: Below is an example of a site plan for a freestanding pergola, the squares in each corner represent the columns. In order to get accurate dimensions you will need to measure your column centers. The 144” dimension below is an example of this. Using 10” cardboard cutouts on your patio may be helpful. Please keep in mind that our standard overhang from the center of the column is 24” so you will need to be mindful of any space constraints. For instance, a pergola with 10x10’ column centers will have an overall size of 14x14’.

Attached Pergola: Below is an example of a site plan for an attached pergola. The small squares represent columns and the line marked house is the house. Measurements are taken between the columns on column centers, and from the house to the column centers. Our pergolas typically have a 24-inch rafter and purlin overhang, this factors into the overall dimensions. The 12x12’ pergola for example has an overall size of 14x16’. In other words, the rafters are 14’ long as they only overhang on one end and the purlins are 16’ long as they overhang from both sidea. When measuring, dimensions are taken from column centers. Typically, our pergolas are between 8’ and 10’ tall to the bottom of the beam. Please specify how tall you would like your pergola and remember to measure the height of any windows and doors that might obstruct the ledger which requires a space at least 8” tall.

Columns PLACEHOLDER

Fluted Round: Recessed Square: Fluted Square:

True 2x8" fiberglass beams: Our true 2x8” fiberglass double beam is our standard offering. It allows for column to column free-spans of up to 19 feet and can legally be used as conduits to run wires in most states.

True 4x12" fiberglass beams: Our massive 4x12” beams are perfectly proportioned and make a statement. If you are looking for a structure with more of a sense of “presence” these beams are for you. With the ability reach 22 foot free spans these beams allow for more unobstructed space. They are available as an upgrade option on most pergolas.

         A critical aspect during the pergola design stage is ensuring an adequate mounting surface to accommodate the structural fiberglass columns. Our columns cannot rest on grass, gravel, soil or paving stones. Concrete footings or a concrete slab is required to properly install any pergola and is vital to preventing uplift and structural stability. Both our freestanding and attached pergolas can also be deck mounted provided the is structurally sound enough to support a pergola. If footings or a slab are used an 8” long 5/8” stainless-steel threaded rod is epoxied into the footing or slab and later coupled with another stainless-steel threaded rod that runs to the top of each column where it is fastened and provides protection against uplift.

Concrete Footings: When concrete footings are used we suggest pier no smaller than 10” in diameter. The pier must be at least 36” deep or to frostline. Local regulations vary by city and state and may require a deeper footing. It is the client’s responsibility to research local building regulations and furnish the footings.

Concrete Slab: When a concrete slab is used we suggest thickness of at least 6”. Local regulations vary by city and state and may require a thicker slab. It is the client’s responsibility to research local building regulations and furnish the slab.

Deck Mounting: When mounting a pergola to a deck structural aluminum deck mounting plates are required and are furnished by Baldwin Pergolas. A 5/8” stainless steel threaded rod is run from the deck mounting plates to the top of each column where it is fastened and provides protection against uplift. The deck must be structurally sound and showing no signs of rot. We do not recommend mounting to composite decking as it can easily detach.

Masonry Piers: When using masonry piers or a stonewall the mounting surface you must measure the height of your piers and walls and include those dimensions in your measurements. Please provide any details you can about the masonry piers/walls including whether it is constructed with concrete or block. If the pier or wall is made of block please specify whether the block is filled or hollow. Additionally please indicate the material the pier or wall is capped with in the notes section on step 3.