One of the questions homeowners ask before installation day is, “Is there anything I need to do beforehand?” The answer is yes, but it’s usually nothing complicated. Clearing the area, thinking about access, and planning around existing landscaping can save time during installation and help your project stay on schedule.
In this guide, we’ll walk through a couple of tips on how to prepare before your pergola installation.
Start By Choosing Where Your Pergola Will Go
Where you place your own pergola will shape everything from the amount of shade it provides to how easily it connects with the rest of your backyard.
Are you creating a shaded area for outdoor dining? A comfortable spot for lounging? A connection between your house and backyard patio? Intended purpose should always guide placement.
Before settling on a location, take a look at:
- How the sun moves across your yard throughout the day
- How much shade you want during warmer months
- How the pergola will connect with your house, deck, or patio
- How people will move around the space
Take stock of what’s already in the area before finalizing the layout. Existing features can influence post placement, access during construction, and the amount of usable space around the pergola.
Mark Out The Space Before Construction Begins
Before the first official post goes into the ground, it helps to see the entire pergola layout in your actual backyard. Garden or construction stakes can be used to mark the corners, post locations, and overall perimeter of the structure. With a visualization, you’ll have a better sense of the size before anything is built.
Standing inside the marked area can help answer a few important questions:
- Does the pergola leave enough room for furniture?
- Is the location too close to fences or walls?
- Does the placement create the amount of shade you want?
- Does the size feel right for the backyard?
Making adjustments at this stage is much easier than changing the layout once construction starts. Our team at Abloom can also provide 2D and 3D plans for an even clearer picture of the finished pergola.
Check The Ground Before Installing Posts
A pergola needs a stable foundation, which is why proper site preparation is the first part of the installation process. Depending on the project, this may include preparing areas for concrete footings or adjusting uneven ground.
Pay attention to areas where water collects after rain. Low-lying areas may need additional planning before installation to help protect the structure over time. Good preparation helps support the posts and maintain the structural integrity of the pergola.
Prepare Your Yard For The Work Area
A pergola project can affect the surrounding landscaping, especially when materials need to be brought into the backyard and post holes need to be prepared.
Before work begins, clear space around the installation area by moving furniture, trimming back bushes, and creating a clear path for the crew. If you have gardens or immature trees nearby, consider how they may be affected during construction.
Make Sure Your Project Meets Local Requirements
Depending on where you live, a building permit may be required before installing a pergola. Requirements can vary based on the size of the structure, its location, and whether it is attached to your house.
You don’t have to become an expert on local building regulations, but you should know if they apply to your project. A qualified contractor can help confirm permit requirements and make sure everything is in order before work begins.
Choose Materials That Fit Your Backyard
The material that looks best on day one isn’t always the best fit for your budget, maintenance preferences, or climate.
Wood remains a popular option for its natural appearance, while pressure-treated materials can offer durability and practicality. Other materials may require less maintenance depending on the style you want.
Think about how the pergola will complement your home and existing landscaping. The right material should match the rest of your outdoor space while fitting how you plan to use it.
Work With A Team That Understands Backyard Construction
Preparing your backyard before installation doesn’t have to take complete control of your schedule. Spending several days observing sun exposure, checking site lines, and planning where your outdoor structure will sit can make a noticeable difference once construction begins.
At Abloom Landscape Contractor, we have over 40 years of experience helping Ottawa homeowners create outdoor spaces that fit their properties. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, we can help you evaluate the site and recommend the best approach before work gets underway.
Contact us today to start planning your pergola installation.