Q: Why should I choose Garbrella?
A: Garbrella manufactures a maintenance-free pergola that not only looks attractive but also provides the quality of material necessary for a durable, lifetime pergola. Our experienced sales team can build a custom design suitable for your needs as well as providing assistance with any pergola kit. We provide free installation manuals for each kit in addition to phone service for any questions. Choosing Garbrella means you don’t have to deal with a middle-man. We manufacture all of the pergolas we sell, which saves you money and gives you confidence in the quality of the product.
Q: What are the pergola dimensions?
A: The dimensions of a pergola are the actual beam and rafter length. The pergola caps will add approximately 12’’to each side of the pergola.
Q: How to determine the width and length of a pergola?
A: The first measurement is the projection length of the rafter. The second measurement in the length of the beam and also the shade slats. For example a 12 x 16 pergola will have rafters that are 12’ long and the beams and shade slats will be 16’ long. Note: The decorative end caps will approximately 12” to each end of the beam and rafter and are not included in these measurements.
Q: What is the warranty on the vinyl?
A: See warranty page.
Q: Can you manufacture custom-sized pergolas?
A: Garbrella can deliver a completely custom-designed pergola that is made from scratch. Cathedral beams, A-Frame design, rail bending, custom angles or length/width are some of the features you can include in a custom-built pergola.
Q: Do you have beam and rafter inserts?
A: We recommend using our 2” x 6” aluminum for the rafters and our 2” x 8” aluminum for the beams. You also have the option of providing your own pressure-treated wood for inserts.
Q: Are your products American made?
A: All products are made in the U.S.A.
Q: What percentage of shade does a pergola provide?
A: The 3’’ slat spaced at 6’’ apart will provide 50 percent shade or more.
Q: What is the size of the beams?
A: The main beam is 2’’ wide by 8’’ high. We provide lengths up to 24’ however we can only ship lengths up to 20’ unless prior arrangements are made. Special connectors can be used to make the beam of any length.
Q: What is the size of the rafters?
A: The rafters are 2’’ wide by 6’’ high. We provide lengths up to 24’ however we can only ship lengths up to 20’ unless prior arrangements are made. Special connectors can be used to make the rafter of any length.
Q: What type of post system is available?
A: For the Tuscany style, the posts have an adjustable, zinc-coated core that is fastened on the surface of wood or concrete. The zinc-coating is than sleeved with your desired vinyl post creating a finished and solid post system.
Q: How do I level the posts?
A: The posts have leveling bolts that are fastened to the mounting plate.
Q: Is the internal post zinc-coated?
A: Yes and all hardware is stainless steel or zinc-coated.
Q: How many post options do you have?
A: We have 6’’ and 8’’ square column posts for the Tuscany style. 5” and 6” square posts are available for the Garden Spot.
Q: Does the price include all materials?
A: The price includes materials and all necessary weatherproof hardware and packaging.
Q: What is your lead time for a pergola kit?
A: We require a 4 – 6 week lead time after the transaction. For installation and custom design, we also require a 4 – 6 week lead time.
Q: How long does it take to install an average size pergola?
A: An average size 16’ x 16’ pergola with 4 posts will take 2 adults 12- 16 hours depending on experience.
Q: How many people should assist with installation?
A: We recommend at least 2 healthy adults especially for installing the beams and rafters.
Q: How do you ship your pergola kits?
A: Most of our long distance kits are shipped via LTL Freight. Garbrella also transports some local deliveries.
Q: Where do you ship your pergolas?
A: We can easily ship to all U.S. states and Canada. Worldwide deliveries are also available. Delivery prices vary according to distance.
Q: How do you package a pergola kit for shipment?
A: We band all material to a pallet and use white shrink wrap to completely cover the kit to protect material.
Q: How is the package unloaded?
A: Typically the customer must be prepared to unload it by hand or machine. Two adults are recommended for unloading by hand. For Garbrella staff deliveries, the driver will assist in unloading material. All kits come secured and sealed on a pallet.
Q: Is there a restocking fee for returned items?
A: All material returned must be in excellent condition. A small restocking fee will apply unless a staff person at Garbrella waives it.
Q: Are there different options for shade slats?
A: We have 3 different options – 7/8’’ x 3’’, 1 ½’’ square or lattice top. We have standard spacing at 6’’ and 12’’, but the spacing is not limited to these sizes and can be customized.
Q: How can we fasten the posts on a deck or yard?
A: We recommend fastening on concrete or a structural wood surface. For yard pergolas, fill sona tubes with concrete at the desired location and mount post onto the concrete. Fastening onto a wood or vinyl deck requires a support beam that is able to hold the weight of a pergola. Please note on the order the fastening type, since it requires a different fastener.
Q: Where can I purchase sona tubes?
A: Most local hardware stores sell sona tubes.
Q: How deep should my sona tube be in the ground?
A: We recommend 30’’ – 36’’ deep, but that also varies with the type of soil or area you are located in. Definitely below the maximum frost level in your area.
Q: Can we add railings or additional options to the pergola?
A: You can add railing or fence sections to your pergola. You dream it, we fabricate it!
Q: How many different pergola colors are available?
A: Our 3 main colors are white, almond, and khaki.
Q: Can I attach my pergola to an existing building or house?
A: You can attach a pergola to a building using 2” x 8” pressure treated wood and then sleeving it with a 2” x 8” vinyl sleeve. We provide heavy galvanized 2” x 6” joist hangars to fasten the rafters to the ledger board.
Q: Does the deck floor need to be level?
A: Our posts are adjustable in height to compensate for an uneven floor surface. It is important to keep the top of the pergola as level as possible.
Q: Is a building permit required?
A: Most states do not require a permit, however customers should check with their local municipality for any permits or restrictions that may apply.
Q: Do you offer discounts?
A: Check our website for discounts which we do offer periodically.
Q: What type of fasteners do you use?
A: Most of our fasteners are a GRK product. We use all stainless steel or galvanized steel to prevent rust.
Q: Do you have product samples?
A: We offer a sample kit with the color combination free of charge.
Q: Where is your business located?
A: We are located at 601 Overly’s Grove Rd. New Holland, Pa 17557. You are welcome to stop by our office anytime. Office hours are Monday to Friday 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. EST. Saturday by appointment.
Q: What are the methods of payment?
A: For phone or office sales transactions are made via credit card, cash, or check. If you order from our webpage there is a secure online checkout via credit card. Pergolas must be paid in full before delivery or shipment.
Q: What tools do I need?
A: Garbrella’s pergola kits do not require a lot of tools. Some of the bigger tools required are a hammer drill (if fastening on concrete), electric or battery drill, ratchet with a few common size sockets, level, and a few other basic tools.
Q: Does vinyl have any strength by itself?
A: A vinyl rail gets its strength is by reinforcing it with wood or aluminum. The vinyl itself does not offer sufficient strength to span more than 8’ without eventually sagging.
