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Building an arbour
cloud8
Posts: 103
Hi, if I build a wooden arbour does it have to be fixed into the ground like you would with a fence or can it just sit there like a garden bench? I ask because I want it to go on a paved area and don't fancy digging up all the hardcore and rubbish that I know will be lurking under the paving stones. I'm looking for a lazy way out but suspect it will need fixing to the ground.
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Posts
You've really answered your own question cloud8!
It would be top heavy and would just get destroyed first windy day you get. You can get those metpost thingies which can be bolted onto paving and they hold a 3/4" square post. That might be the best bet if you don't want to dig holes, but it won't be as substantial and I reckon with the weight of planting on it, it could topple. If it was me -. I'd borrow a pickaxe and get going!
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Oh bother, I suspected as much. Thanks for replying. I don't suppose you can lend a hand Fairygirl...?
You don't have to fix it down, but once an arbour gets some plants growing over it, it will catch the wind and you'll run the risk of it blowing over, or blowing away leaving a trail of havoc in its wake.
If I were you I'd fix it firmly to the paving - there's one way of doing it shown here http://www.ehow.co.uk/how_5023026_build-pergola-concrete-patio.html - but you can ask for advice at a local DIY store - they're usually very helpful.
Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.
I can lend you the pickaxe and my eldest daughter, cloud - she has a hefty swing on her!
Seriously, the sturdier it is the happier you'll be.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
A brick wellington might work (if you don't want to dig up the paving) - our gazebo hasn't gone anywhere..... yet!