Brandenburg 12' x 12' Louvered Vinyl Pergola

Be prepared. The instructions leave some things out. Read them carefully and look for potential problems that may occur. Two tubes of vinyl glue is not enough. Go to your local hardware store and get some PVC glue or else you'll wind up going there later. My worst problem was that one of the nine inch bolts sheared off during installation. I ran to the hardware store to get a carriage bolt to get by. I'll be requesting a replacement from the manufacturer. Be aware too, that this is not a super sturdy pergola. The brackets that mount from the concrete to the 4X4 post are not tall enough to give good strength and structure. I also think the manufacturer should reconsider the smaller concrete screw for something more substantial. I've also noticed that smudges from hands on pressure treated wood leave smudges that are difficult to get off the vinyl shell. The kit doesn't come with care or cleaning instructions so I'll be looking on the internet for a solution. Overall I'm happy with the end result. This was much less expensive than a stick-built redwood pergola and will probably last a long time.