How to Install an Arbor Without Concrete
5 Materials
$50
2 Hours
Medium
I was happy to find a pretty garden arbor on Craigslist. It was very sturdy, solid wood, and the price was right. Once Jason picked it up, I realized I had no idea how to anchor it into the ground!
Our township requires permits to install an arbor with concrete, and I wanted the flexibility of being able to move it if we ever need to.
So, I went to Lowe’s and Home Depot, and I found that they no longer sell kits to anchor an arbor. No one had any ideas of how to secure it simply.
Luckily, I stumbled across Statelykitsch.com who had the same trouble I did, and used fence mender posts. I found these at Lowes and purchased four.
Arbor Installation Process:
We hammered in the first anchor.
Then we put the arbor down how we wanted it. Because the Sinpsons Strong Tie has a nub on the side to hammer, we were able to hammer the anchors in without moving the arbor. This made it a lot easier to get it lined up just right. It was definitely helpful to have one person to hold the base of arbor steady while the other hammers in the anchors.
Once we had the anchors hammered down and the arbor situated, I screwed the anchors to the arbor using my beloved impact driver and 1 7/8″ wood screws.
After the arbor was installed in the ground, I taped some newspaper around the base with painters tape.
Next, I put on a coat of deglosser to make sure the paint would adhere well. I wore gloves and just used an old sock to wipe it on.
Finally, I used white spray paint so the anchors would match the arbor. Now you can hardly tell they are there.
I’m so happy to have found this way to install an arbor. I can’t wait to see it full of clematis and morning glories in a couple months.
Eventually, I will install stone steps up through the rock garden to walk up to the arbor, and hopefully have a little seating area.
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Comments
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2 comments
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Super tip. Personally I would never concrete an arbor. Mainly if it posts rot or it needs to be relocated or my taste changes.
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Super tip. There's all sorts of possibilities with this kind of practical solution! -- Stephie
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