CLASSIC LITE OUTDOOR LIVING POD™

The Classic Lite Pod weighs between 400-500kg per structure dependent on structure size and options selected. This load is spread evenly over the post uprights, creating a load per post of around 100-125kg and therefore it is possible to install the Grillo pergola on all ground types, with little or even no groundworks.

For an existing patio, subject to the patio being in good condition with the patio intact, solid and no cracks in the slabs/tiles, the pergola can sit directly on top of the patio, with the posts attached down to the patio slab/tile through concealed base plates using resin bonded anchors (threaded steel rods), which provide a stress-free anchorage which is usually stronger than the base material itself.

Where the ground surface is not solid including timber decking and grass a small concrete pad is required beneath each post, which would usually measure 300mm square x min 150mm high (thick), with the post uprights attached to these concrete pads using the same resin bonded anchor method details above.

The Classic Lite Pod, louvered roof and all options (side screens, lighting & heating) are conveniently and effortlessly operated from a handheld remote control or optional app control.

A single standard 13amp external socket in close proximity to the structure location is all that is required to power the structure, without heating. Each heater, requires its own dedicated 13amp external socket.

All electrical elements are connected to their respective receivers inside the structure so there are no external control boxes. An antenna fitted within post upright provides a typical operating range of 200m in open space or 20m through two reinforced concrete walls.

When the roof louvers are closed, they have a small fall (slope) from front to back of approx 6cm; water runs off the roof louvers into an internal guttering built on the inside of the cross beams of the structure on all sides. The internal guttering is connected to 50mm downpipes contained inside the front post uprights, with water discreetly draining out the front or side of the posts.

The Classic Lite Pod is designed and built to the exacting standards, tested to the highest levels able to withstand gale force storm conditions (Beaufort 12 – 73+ mph). Optional side screens withstand strong breezes (Beaufort 6 – 31mph).

Along with gale-force wind speed ratings for the louvered roofs, they are not only watertight but able to support a snow load (build-up) up to 100kg/m2 (any snow build up over 35kg/m2 will result in deflection of the louvers which will return back to their normal undeflected state when the snow has melted).

An optional wind sensor for the side screens can automatically retract them should strong winds exceed safe levels. Whilst these sensors are not a fail-safe device, they do offer additional protection and peace of mind.

Our Classic Lite Pod is built to last a lifetime. The structure; louvered roof system including framework (hardware), mechanism (rotating roof), electronics (motors, transmitters and sensors) along with optional side screens comes with a fully comprehensive 5 year parts, labour and workmanship guarantee.

Optional LED lighting & infra-red heaters come with a 3 year guarantee.

In the highly unlikely event of anything going wrong within the guarantee period, you are fully covered, there are no call out charges or hidden costs to pay.

The Classic Lite Pod has been designed and constructed from high-quality materials with premium coatings and concealed elements, meaning the only maintenance required is a little TLC (cleaning) from time to time.

We recommend that both the hardware (metalwork) along with sun screen fabrics are hosed down (garden hose, spray setting) on a regular basis (at least twice per year) to remove any loose dirt and more stubborn stains removed using a sponge and mild soapy (circa 2% acidic) water solution. Birds mess and tree sap should be cleaned off immediately on siting to prevent them damaging the hardware/fabric.

The internal guttering should be cleared of any leaves, debris, small twigs etc to ensure and water evacuates effectively and if you have opted for sun screens, the side guides where the fabric and leadrail runs within should be sprayed with a non-corrosive silicone spray to lubricate.

In the majority of instances, planning permission is not required to install the Classic Lite Pod at the rear of a residential property, as these fall under permitted development rights. There are some exceptions however, including where your property is located in a conservation, green belt or AONB (area of outstanding natural beauty), your property is listed and where permitted development rights have been removed (usually in historic locations to protect the character of an area).

Additionally there are certain stipulations on sizing for pergolas under permitted development.

As every local authority regulations vary, there is no one rule for all, so if you are unsure it is always recommended to check with the local authority.

Yes. Whilst the Classic Lite Pod is available in the six set sizes shown to suit the most popular furniture layout configurations, it is available as the Classic Pod, completely made to measure up to 5.94m length x 4.50m width (louver span) x 3.0m high.

As the Classic Pod is built to order and not a standard size there is an increased cost implication and extended lead time.

If you just need more space, you may wish to consider placing 2 standard sized pergolas side by side instead which will be more cost effective and quicker.

Yes. It is perfectly safe to use a coal, wood or gas fired BBQ or fireplace beneath our louvered pergola. In fact it is extremely common for outdoor kitchens to be installed beneath the structure. The only stipulation is that any flues from for example pizza ovens be positioned a minimum of 0.5m from the underside of the roof louvers and that if the Classic Lite Pod is fitted with side screens any heat surfaces are kept a minimum of 0.5m from the screen fabrics.

Additionally with the roof louvers open at 10 degrees, this will allow for ventilation from heat build up and smoke beneath whilst still offering rain shower protection from downwards rain.