Squaring your pergola frame is crucial for smooth operation - especially for accessories like side screens and slatted walls to function correctly. Even a slight misalignment can affect performance.

✅ How to check and square the frame:

1. Measure diagonally from corner to corner across the top of the pergola (post to post).
   Repeat with the opposite diagonal.
2. If the two diagonal measurements aren’t identical, the pergola is out of square.
3. Gently adjust the frame until both measurements match. Never force alignment by kicking the posts.

🛠️ Top Tip:

This is easiest with two people. Always check for squareness before bolting the pergola down. Once aligned:

• Mark the ground at all four bolt holes.
• Drill using the correct drill bit (e.g., diamond drill for porcelain surfaces).

🔩 Bolting recommendations:

• 3m x 3m & 4m x 3m models: Use 2 diagonal bolts per footplate (if the ground is solid).
• 4m x 4m & 6m x 4m models: Use all 4 bolts per footplate for maximum stability.

Taking the time to get this step right at the start will save you issues down the line and ensure everything operates as it should.

We recommend using a spirit level to check for any unevenness across the installation area. If the slope exceeds 10mm or is uneven in multiple directions, adjustments may be needed before installation.

If your base has a slope greater than 10mm or is uneven in multiple directions, it may prevent proper installation and affect the alignment and operation of accessories. Side screens may not retract smoothly, and slatted walls may not stack evenly.

If your base is not level, we advise consulting a professional to correct any significant unevenness before installation. This will ensure the best fit and functionality for your pergola and accessories.

While minor variations can sometimes be accommodated, a base that exceeds the recommended slope may result in misalignment, reduced stability, and functional issues with accessories. In some cases, installation may not be possible without adjustments to the base.

A flat, level base with a slope of no more than 10mm in one direction ensures proper drainage, structural stability, and correct alignment of accessories. An uneven base can lead to installation difficulties and impact the functionality of side screens and slatted walls.

If accessories are installed on an unsuitable base and this causes operational issues, it may affect warranty coverage. A properly prepared base is essential for long-term performance and durability.

Our pergolas are securely fixed to the ground using bolts through the post footplates. These fixings provide stability and safety and are neatly covered with post caps for a clean, polished finish. For Porcelain Flags: we recommend using a diamond drill bit to avoid cracking. For Decking: alternative fixings suitable for timber or composite decks.

For a smooth installation and optimal performance, it's essential to have a flat and level base. We recommend a slight slope of approximately 10 mm in one direction for proper drainage. Our recommended base options include smooth flag paving, timber or composite decking, or a concrete foundation. Please keep in mind that side screen alignment cannot be guaranteed on an uneven base. For detailed guidance on specific measurements, refer to our handy measuring guides. More info here.

We recommend 3m x 3m & 3m x 4m models – 2 bolts diagonal to one another per footplate are generally sufficient if installed on a solid base. We recommend 4m x 4m & 6m x 4m models – All 4 bolts on each footplate should be used for stability. If installing on porcelain, consider using 2 bolts per foot to reduce potential damage if the pergola is ever relocated.

Bolts should be finger-tight; tight enough to hold securely but not over-tightened, as this can cause operational issues.

Yes, grey silicone should be applied in every corner to seal gaps and enhance durability. This is recommended for all pergola models, not just the 6m x 4m Tora pergola.

If the trestle surface is smooth and clean, covering isn't essential. However, using protective covering is highly recommended to prevent scratches or damage to the powder coated surface of the aluminium.

There are a couple of possible reasons why the electrics may be tripping:

1. Blocked Gutters:
If the gutters haven’t been cleaned, water may not be draining properly down the posts and could be collecting near the electrical connections. This can cause electrical issues.
👉 [Watch this short video] that explains how to check and resolve this.

2. Loose Connections:
There are four connections in total: one main connection with the motor and three additional connectors around the top of each post. It’s worth checking these to ensure they are secure and haven’t come loose.

3. Motor Failure (Less Likely):
While a motor failure is unlikely within the first two years, we can explore this as a potential cause if the above checks don’t resolve the issue.

If a new motor is needed:
If we determine that the motor needs replacing, we will send a new one out. Please ensure that you have a certified electrician to install the new motor, as it is important that the installation is done in accordance with safety regulations.

Warranty Information: Our pergolas come with a 5-year warranty on the frame, louvres, and side screens, and a 2-year warranty on all electric motors. Since your pergola was installed in May 2023, the motor is still covered under warranty.

Slatted walls come in four sections that stack on top of each other. While every effort is made to ensure a precise fit, minor variations in alignment may occur, particularly if the base is not perfectly level.

Side screens require a level base for smooth operation. If the base is uneven, alignment cannot be guaranteed, and the screens may not function as intended.

Not necessarily. This is often due to the pergola being slightly out of square or the base not being level. Side screens rely on a square frame and level base for smooth operation. If the pergola hasn’t been bolted down, it may have shifted, causing the screen to be under excess tension.

This tension can pull on the selvage (the reinforced edge of the fabric), which might give the appearance that the screen is coming away or detaching.

What to check:

• Has your pergola been securely bolted down? If not, it may have moved out of alignment.
• Use a tape measure to check both diagonal measurements from corner to corner. If they’re not equal, the pergola isn’t square.

If your side screen seems uneven, is pulling to one side, or isn’t gliding smoothly, your pergola may be slightly out of alignment.

Side screens rely on two key things for proper operation:

• level base
• perfectly square pergola frame

If either of these is off, even slightly, it can affect how the screen tracks and moves.

✅ Steps to check alignment:

• using a spirit level – all posts should be perfectly vertical.
• using a spirit level, especially on the side where the screen is pulling away or binding.

💡 Top Tip:
If your screens feel stiff even after checking alignment, you can remove the internal foam strips within the mechanism. This increases the tolerance slightly and often allows the screen to move more freely.

📸 See images here:

If your side screen has come detached or unzipped, you’ll usually notice it flapping loosely on one side. This can occasionally happen if the screen was operated under tension or during strong winds, although it’s rare if precautions have been followed.

The good news – this is fixable. The screen just needs to be re-zipped back into place.

👉 [Watch this short video] to see how to re-zip the screen back into its track.

If your screen has dropped slightly or isn’t running straight, it may just need to be realigned manually.

🔧 Realignment guide (two people):

1. Fully lower the screen to the bottom.
2. One person should hold the screen steady on the side that is properly aligned.
3. The other person gently pushes the mesh screen upward, placing hands on both sides of the fabric near the misaligned section to guide it back into place.

👉 [Watch this short video] to help walk you through this process

If your pergola is in an exposed or high-wind area, shifting or movement can affect the screen performance.

🌬️ To help prevent future issues:

• Always leave side screens fully open when not in use or during windy conditions.
  
• Leave the roof louvres slightly open to allow air to flow through and reduce wind pressure on the structure.