About Dan Donavin Expertise I can answer questions regarding planning, repairing, hiring contractors, and building decks, stairs, landings, and most residential outdoor woodwork. I know the building codes for my surrounding counties but I cannot answer specific question on passing inspections unless it is something nationwide.
Experience I have 10 years of carpentry experience and the last five years owning my own company. I currently build, repair and replace stairs and decking for new construction, remodeling, and commercial customers. I am often called on to bring stairs and decks up to code in new construction sites. I have used most new types of decking, railing, post, and fencing materials that are on the market.
Organizations Habit for Humanity
Concrete Network
Education/Credentials College of Dupage two years business and sales coursework
Expert: Dan Donavin Date: 6/20/2008 Subject: Pergola Post Question
Question I am building a free standing pergola (10'x16') with 6"x6"x10' posts. I need the height of the pergola to be at least 8'6" meaning I can only bury it in the ground about 18" with concrete. Some say this should be enough to hold up the structure since there won't be any live load on it but I am worried. Buying different posts is out of the question. Do you think 18" in the ground with concrete at 8" diameter is enough? I was also think of bringing the concrete above grade about 6" to make it 24" and prevent the post from touching the ground. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!!!
Answer Hi Peter,
You can dig 24 inches down then pour 6 inches of concrete and let it dry overnight. Then you can set your posts on that and pour concrete around them. The other option is to pour the concrete flush with the ground 24 inches deep, and set a post bracket in the concrete while it is wet and bolt the post in the bracket 2 days later.
Good Luck
Dan Donavin
Gorgeous Finish Works LLC
gorgeousbuilders@yahoo.com
