vita Athens Trellis - User Manual

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Summary

Assembly Instructions

Check Materials Inside Posts

Crucial step to verify all necessary components are located within the posts before assembly begins.

Parts Identification

Comprehensive list of all trellis components with their specific identifiers and specifications.

Required Tools

List of tools necessary for the successful assembly of the trellis.

Assembly Guidelines

General advice and best practices to ensure a safe and efficient assembly process.

Assembly Procedure

Step One: Initial Post and Rail Assembly

Connect the bottom rail and horizontal spindles to one post, then add vertical spindles.

Step Two: Attaching Top Arch

Insert arch spindles into the top rail and connect the arch assembly to the trellis posts.

Step Three: Ground Mounting Preparation

Attach the ground mounting extensions to the base of the trellis posts.

Step Four: Securing Trellis in Ground

Position the assembled trellis in its final location and secure it by backfilling excavated holes.

The Vita Athens / Savannah Trellis is a decorative and functional garden structure designed to support climbing plants and add an aesthetic touch to outdoor spaces. This trellis is constructed from durable materials, likely PVC or a similar weather-resistant composite, given the "White / Composite" part descriptions, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Vita Athens / Savannah Trellis is to provide a sturdy framework for climbing plants such as roses, clematis, ivy, or vegetables like cucumbers and beans. By offering a vertical support system, it encourages healthy plant growth, prevents plants from sprawling, and maximizes garden space. Beyond its horticultural utility, the trellis serves as an architectural element, enhancing the visual appeal of gardens, patios, or entryways. Its design, featuring an arched top and a grid of horizontal and vertical spindles, creates an elegant backdrop that can define garden areas or screen less desirable views.

Important Technical Specifications:

Overall Dimensions (Assembled):

Height: 77.2 inches (196 cm)
Width: 47.7 inches (121 cm)
Depth (Base): 36 inches (91 cm)
Depth (Top Arch): 22.5 inches (57 cm)
Post Height: 54.7 inches (139 cm) from the ground to the base of the arch.
Ground Mounting Extension Length: 18 inches (45.7 cm)

Component Breakdown and Dimensions:

1. Post Caps (3): 1.5 inches (4 cm) square. Available in 10600 White / 14066 Composite. These caps finish the top of the posts.
2. Arches (2): 1.5 inches (4 cm) square. Available in 10847 White / 14074 Composite. These form the distinctive arched top of the trellis.
3. Top Long Spindles (2): Length 21.89 inches (55.6 cm). Available in 10848 White / 14075 Composite. These are part of the upper grid structure within the arch.
4. Top Short Spindles (2): Length 19.1 inches (48.5 cm). Available in 10849 White / 14076 Composite. These are also part of the upper grid structure within the arch, designed to fit the curvature.
5. Top Rail (1): Length 38.73 inches (98 cm). Available in 10850 White / 14077 Composite. This rail connects the posts at the top of the main grid section, just below the arch.
6. Left Post (1): Length 57 inches (145 cm). Available in 10851 White / 14078 Composite. This is one of the main vertical supports.
7. Right Post (1): Length 57 inches (145 cm). Available in 10852 White / 14091 Composite. This is the other main vertical support.
8. Vertical Spindles (4): Length 47.36 inches (120 cm). Available in 10853 White / 14079 Composite. These form the vertical elements of the main grid.
9. Center Vertical Spindle (1): Length 47.36 inches (120 cm). Available in 11199 White / 14110 Composite. This central spindle features a "spear head" design, adding a decorative touch and indicating its specific placement.
10. Horizontal Spindles (5): Length 38.73 inches (98 cm). Available in 10854 White / 14080 Composite. These form the horizontal elements of the main grid.
11. Bottom Rail (1): Length 38.73 inches (98 cm). Available in 10850 White / 14081 Composite. This rail connects the posts at the bottom of the main grid section and has routed holes on one side for spindle insertion.
12. Ground Mounting Extensions (2): Length 18 inches (45.7 cm). Available in 10856 White / 14073 Composite. These extensions are inserted into the bottom of the posts for secure ground installation.
13. 5/8 inch (16 mm) Self-Auguring Stainless Steel Screws (24): Available in 20016 White / 20030 Composite. These screws are used for fastening various components, particularly for securing the ground mounting extensions and the arch assembly.

Materials:

The components are described with "White / Composite" part numbers, suggesting that the trellis is made from a durable, weather-resistant composite material, likely PVC or vinyl. This material choice offers advantages such as resistance to rot, rust, insects, and fading, making it suitable for outdoor use without extensive maintenance. The screws are self-auguring stainless steel, ensuring corrosion resistance and secure fastening.

Usage Features:

Assembly Process: The trellis is designed for home assembly, with clear step-by-step instructions.
- Step One (Main Grid Assembly): Involves laying a post on the ground and inserting the bottom rail and five horizontal spindles. The bottom rail is distinct, having routed holes on only one side. Five vertical spindles are then woven into the structure, with a specific "spear head" center spindle. The top rail is then inserted, and the second post is attached. Locking tabs on the horizontal rails ensure secure connections. Finally, the top arches are inserted into the post caps, with stickers indicating the top of the arch, and secured with eight screws.
- Step Two (Top Arch Installation): Requires inserting the arch spindles (two different sizes: long and short) into the openings on the top rail. The four spindles are then aligned into the bottom of the arch, and the entire arch assembly is simultaneously inserted into the posts. The arch assembly is then fastened to the posts using screws. The final step involves fastening the posts to the top and bottom rails to complete the trellis structure.
Ground Mounting: The trellis is designed for secure installation into the ground to withstand high winds.
- Step Three (Install Ground Mounting Extensions): The 18-inch ground mounting extensions are inserted into the bottom of the trellis posts and secured with screws.
- Step Four (Install Trellis into Ground): The trellis is moved to its final location, and the post positions are marked. The trellis is then laid aside, and two post holes, approximately 12 inches (30 cm) deep and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter, are excavated. The trellis is then carefully moved back into position, leveled both vertically and horizontally within the excavated holes, and the holes are backfilled with soil.
Versatility: While designed for ground installation, the manual notes that for installation directly to a wall, wood deck, or concrete surface, appropriate galvanized bracket hardware should be sourced separately from a hardware store.
Aesthetic Design: The Athens / Savannah Trellis features a classic design with an arched top and a symmetrical grid pattern, making it suitable for various garden styles, from traditional to contemporary. The "spear head" on the center vertical spindle adds a subtle decorative detail.

Maintenance Features:

Durable Material: The use of composite material (PVC/vinyl) means the trellis is inherently low-maintenance. It resists common outdoor issues such as rot, rust, insect damage, and fading, which are typical problems for wood or metal trellises.
Easy Cleaning: The smooth surface of the composite material makes it easy to clean. Typically, a simple rinse with water or a wipe-down with a mild soap solution is sufficient to remove dirt, dust, or mildew.
No Painting or Staining Required: Unlike wood trellises, the composite material does not require painting, staining, or sealing to maintain its appearance or structural integrity. The color is integrated into the material, ensuring long-lasting vibrancy.
Stainless Steel Hardware: The use of stainless steel screws ensures that the fasteners will not rust or corrode, contributing to the overall longevity and structural integrity of the trellis.
Robust Construction: The design with locking tabs and screw-fastened components ensures a stable and durable structure that can withstand environmental elements and the weight of climbing plants.

Tools Required for Assembly:

Cordless Drill
Hammer
Tape Measure
Level
Shovel

General Information for Assembly:

Read instructions carefully before starting.
Assemble components on a non-abrasive surface (e.g., shipping box) to prevent scratching.
An assembly area of approximately 5 feet by 8 feet (1.5m x 2.4m) is recommended for unobstructed work.
Excessive force should not be necessary during assembly.
Crucially, check the inside of the posts for all materials, as smaller components may be stored there.
In case of missing or defective parts, customer service can be contacted at 1 800 282 9346 (Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST).

The Vita Athens / Savannah Trellis is a practical, elegant, and low-maintenance solution for enhancing any garden or outdoor living space, providing both plant support and architectural interest.