Notes: This guide assumes an M-site classification as per the Australian standard for residential slabs and footings AS with a minimum bearing capacity of 100kPa.

If the pergola is to be attached to an existing structure, the existing structure should be checked and verified by a registered engineer to ensure that it is structurally adequate to sustain the added load of the pergola. Once you commence building the pergola remember the old adage Measure twice, cut once. The stability of the structure depends entirely upon the firm embedment of the posts. Avoid shading established plants and make sure of good post embedment. Before building your shade house or pergola give careful thought to the area in which you site the structure. Mark out the location of the pergola accurately. When lightweight roofing materials are used, check manufacturer recommendations as the addition of roofing materials may alter spans and sizes quoted in the guide. Two methods of fixing to buildings are shown in this guide. Decking, fencing, cladding, fascia, window joinery, exterior structural timber (above ground), engineered wood products Fencing, pergolas, landscaping timbers, posts, greenhouses, non structural retaining walls less than 1m high Structural retaining walls, building poles, house stumps, cooling tower infill, pilings in fresh water or critical applications Boat hulls, marine piles, jetty crossbracing, landing steps, sea walls Tools checklist: Tape measure, Square, Pencil Hammer and Chisel Spirit level, plumb bob String line, String level Crowbar and Shovel Circular saw or Hand saw Power drill with bits 12mm masonry bit Spanner for 12mm bolts/ nuts Endseal preservative Galvanised fasteners Before you Start: Pergolas can be free standing or attached to buildings. Timber Selection Guide: Hazard Typical Uses Class H3 Outside, above ground H4 Outside, in ground H5 Outside, in ground or fresh water H6 Marine waters Hazard Class Selection Guide AS1604. Check with your local shire council, certifier or engineer for further details. Where footings are in proximity to council sewer and or stormwater it may be necessary to complete a build over or near a sewer or stormwater application. It is also important to make sure that the pergola does not interfere with existing drainage, plumbing or electricity services.

It is strongly recommended that a competent professional builder be engaged to construct pergola s.

Refer to local government regulations for requirements regarding pergola s. 2 Planning your Project General Hints: When you have planned your pergola it is advisable to consult your local council to ensure the structure conforms to local government regulations.

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