[fakie99]

Hey Guys,

We have a project requiring a pergola and I'd like to use stone piers for the posts (see attached.) I am thinking that we'll pour 4 8" piers for the concrete pad (rather than pour an entire 2'x2'x42" hunk of concrete). I will run the posts down to the pad and secure with 4x4 brackets to the concrete. Then frame up a treated "box" about 2'x2' square, add felt paper and cultered stone.

Any thoughts on this approach, or ideas that might make more sense?

Thanks,


Jim

[Lanelle]

I know this isn't what you want to hear, but you should see what your local building codes are. Pergolas and arbors can fall in a grey area regarding permits and building standards.

[Stonehenge]

Your method looks like with the labor involved in digging 4 separate holes, it'll be more expensive than just digging one hole and pouring it.

[dan deutekom]

Originally Posted by Stonehenge

Your method looks like with the labor involved in digging 4 separate holes, it'll be more expensive than just digging one hole and pouring it.

I am with Jeff on this

[Ston Wurks]

I'd dig the one hole and drop a sonotube down in there below your frost line. I don't see the reason for 4 separate holes.

[agla]

You would be ptting the stress to the middle of a slab that is being supported by the corners - never a good idea.

If you do short cut it, use a big sono tube in the middle that comes up 8"-12" below grade and form the 2'x2' slab so that it is a monolith (continuous pour). Tie it in with rebar before you pour. Then the burden of the post is 100% solid and the lighter weight box and cultured stone are on a pretty darn good footing. I think that would be more than adequate.

[fakie99]

tubes - good idea and probably better load distrib. thanks for the input fellas.

here's to a busy 2008, recession-be-damned.

jim

[Lanelle]

I like your attitude Jim!

[fakie99]

thanks -

there is always money to be made, in good times and bad. i think things will get worse too, possibly bottoming out late this summer.

but i think those of us that plan, that really believe in their businesses, that treat clients/employees with respect and professionalism (not the industry standard contractor by the way) are those that will weather the storm.

the key this year will be increasing the pipeline, beating the
streets, getting told "no" alot. forget about referrals, repeat business - this is a new game this year. and one i intend to play properly.

best of luck to us all!