Hello,
I am a bit uncertain about the foundation for a 3x3 meter (10x10 feet) pergola. We have a terrace with floating but very firmly fixed concrete pavers (about 4 cm (1.5 inches) thick). Setting aside all general recommendations for a moment, would you still insist on building a foundation of 30 cm x 30 cm x 40 cm (12 x 12 x 16 inches), or do you think the pergola could also be stable directly on the pavers? Alternatively, we are considering removing the affected pavers, excavating the gravel base, pouring a 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) thick cement mortar layer, laying the pavers into the mortar bed, and then anchoring the pergola into this new slab. The pergola is generally well protected from the wind and located close to the house. It will be made of powder-coated aluminum, so it is quite heavy.
Thanks for your advice and best regards
I am a bit uncertain about the foundation for a 3x3 meter (10x10 feet) pergola. We have a terrace with floating but very firmly fixed concrete pavers (about 4 cm (1.5 inches) thick). Setting aside all general recommendations for a moment, would you still insist on building a foundation of 30 cm x 30 cm x 40 cm (12 x 12 x 16 inches), or do you think the pergola could also be stable directly on the pavers? Alternatively, we are considering removing the affected pavers, excavating the gravel base, pouring a 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) thick cement mortar layer, laying the pavers into the mortar bed, and then anchoring the pergola into this new slab. The pergola is generally well protected from the wind and located close to the house. It will be made of powder-coated aluminum, so it is quite heavy.
Thanks for your advice and best regards
Peter Silie schrieb:
the thing weighs almost 200kg (440 lbs), with the slats open during a storm, do you really think it still flies away? My brother’s wooden bike shelter (estimated total weight over 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs)) rotated 90° during a little storm. At that time, it wasn’t yet anchored.
I used to fly large kites of about 2 m² (22 ft²). That was only safe with a harness and a "safety chain." You should never underestimate the wind.