How to Prepare Your Yard for a Pavilion Installation

How to Prepare Your Yard for a Pavilion Installation

Before your beautiful timber pavilion goes up, there’s a bit of prep work that can make the installation process faster, easier, and smoother. Whether you’re building it yourself or having a contractor do the job, here’s everything you need to do to get your yard pavilion-ready.

1. Choose the Perfect Spot

Start by selecting a location that:

• Is level or can be leveled fairly easily. This will keep site prep costs lower.

• Offers enough space around the pavilion footprint for installation access and future use.

• Gets the right amount of sun or shade for your needs (think comfort and orientation).

• Has clearance from trees, fences, and overhead lines.

Tip: Take note of how the sun moves through your yard—this affects comfort, especially in summer.

2. Check Local Codes & Permits

Before you build:

• Contact your local building department to ask about permits, setback requirements, and size restrictions.

• If needed, submit plans and get approvals in place early.

• Some areas may require engineered drawings or HOA approval—so plan ahead.

3. Mark the Area

Once your spot is selected:

• Use stakes and string or marking paint to outline the pavilion’s footprint.

• Make sure the area is square using the 3-4-5 method or a builder’s square.

• If you’re building close to an existing building, use a string line to to ensure that the buildings are square with each other.

• Mark post locations for accurate footing placement.

4. Prepare the Base

Depending on your design and goals, choose a foundation that works:

• Concrete Slab: Best for permanent, high-traffic spaces.

• Paver or Stone Patio: Offers a natural, stylish look with great drainage.

• Concrete Footings with Gravel Base: Great for a lawn install; keeps posts elevated and stable.

Pro Tip: Not sure what your finished hardscape will be? Mark off post location as accurately as possible, and pour footings for each post. Keep the concrete in each pier close to ground level, allowing you to build your pavilion first, then cover the piers when you decide on a finished surface.

5. Clear the Work Area

Before installation day:

• Remove grass, plants, and debris from the pavilion footprint.

• Clear access paths for equipment, materials, and tools.

• Trim back trees or branches that might be in the way.

• If you’re building on bare dirt, gravel can help with mud control.

6. Plan for Utilities (If Needed)

If you’re adding lighting, fans, or an outdoor kitchen, get the groundwork ready:

• Pre-run electrical conduit or gas lines if required.

• Plan access points and junctions with your contractor or electrician.

• Make sure your base and posts have the necessary channels or cutouts for wiring. (We can help with this one!)

7. Have Tools and Materials Ready (for DIY Installs)

If you’re building it yourself, make sure you have:

• A helper or two—most kits are better with at least three people.

• Basic tools: Impact, level, ladders, drill bits, hammer/mallet, etc

• Your kit unpacked, sorted, and parts staged for easy access.

• A printed plan or video guide from mytimberscape.com handy during the build.

Final Thoughts

Taking time to properly prepare your yard saves headaches and makes the pavilion installation smooth and stress-free. With just a little planning, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying your new outdoor retreat.

Have questions about installation or site prep? Reach out to the team at www.mytimberscape.com —we’re happy to walk you through it!