This traditional method involves digging holes, pouring concrete, and securing a metal post bracket to the concrete to anchor the posts.

While this provides a robust foundation, it requires significant labor and additional costs for materials like metal brackets and forms, such as bell-shaped or tubular forms.

This might be considered the Gold Standard in that it is tried test and true.  This kind of footing can be designed to support massive loads, probably many times more than your gazebo.

This method demands precise planning and execution, as any errors can lead to misalignment.

Read this article on footings and foundations if you really like to learn more.

If you are interested in this method, check out the Bigfoot Forms.

Advantages: 

• Extremely stable and durable
• Suitable for various soil types 
  

• Can support heavy structures 

Disadvantages: 

• Labor-intensive and time-consuming 

• Requires additional materials (metal brackets, concrete forms) 

• Permanent installation makes future changes difficult 

• Precise placement is crucial to avoid misalignment 

Tools/Skills Needed: 

• Post-hole digger or auger 
• Concrete mixing equipment 
• Carpentry skills for form construction and post alignment 

These are screw-like foundations installed using hydraulic machinery. They vary in dimension and proportions. They offer a strong base but require precise placement due to the fixed nature of the post saddle bracket atop the pile.

Sometimes a pile can only go down in a specific spot because of obstacles.  Misplacement can result in a crooked looking structure.

Helical piles are typically more expensive, costing at least $250 each, and necessitate professional installation, adding to the overall project cost. 

Two good products in this category are from Goliath and American Ground Screw. 

Advantages: 

• Extremely strong and stable 

• Minimal soil disturbance 

• Quicker installation than concrete footings 

Disadvantages: 

• Expensive (typically $250+ per pile) 

• Requires professional installation and specialized equipment 

• Limited adjustability once installed 

• Precise placement is crucial to avoid a crooked structure

Tools/Skills Needed: 

• Hydraulic machinery (often requires professional operation) 

• Precise surveying and layout skills 

A simpler method, ground spikes are driven directly into the soil to support the posts. These are available in box stores everywhere.

While less expensive and easier to install, they may not provide the same stability as concrete footings or helical piles, especially in softer soils. 

Cheaper models do not look very attractive and they are usually just painted so vulnerable to rust.

Peak Products makes a commonly available model.

Advantages: 

• Quick and easy installation 

• Relatively inexpensive ($30-$40)

• Can be DIY-friendly 

Disadvantages: 

• Less stable than concrete or helical piles, especially in soft soils 

• May not be suitable for larger structures 

• Can be difficult to install in rocky soil 

Tools/Skills Needed: 

• Sledgehammer or post driver 

• Basic DIY skills 

For installations on concrete, paver stones, or wood-framed decks, surface mounting is an option.

Products like the Titan Wood Post Anchor, OZCO Post Base Kit, and Simpson Strong-Tie Post Base offer solutions for securely attaching posts to these surfaces. 

However, there are some exceptions with pavers where heavy structures or high wind is possible, many people wish to anchor to the ground by removing pavers or using ground screws/augers through openings in the pavers.

All the products mentioned are convenient and can support the weight of the pergola. But they differ in appearance, style finish and coating and price.

It will mostly come down to personal preference in the category of solutions.

Advantages: 

• No digging or ground disturbance required 

• Can be easier to achieve precise alignment 

• Suitable for areas where in-ground installation is challenging 

Disadvantages: 

• May not be as stable as in-ground methods for larger structures 

• Requires a sturdy, level surface for mounting 

• Can be more visually prominent than other methods 

Tools/Skills Needed: 

• Drill and appropriate bits 

• Basic carpentry skills 

• Knowledge of proper anchoring techniques for the specific surface 

This is a popular innovative solution for anchoring pergola posts to the ground or over pavers without the labor-intensive process of digging and pouring concrete.  

The Deck Foot Anchor method involves installing anchors into the ground using a lightweight handheld electric impact wrench. It supports 4x4 and 6x6 dimensional lumber posts, as well as various hollow wood and metal posts from pergola kits. It allows for flexibility in gazebo or pergola post placement, accommodating installation errors and ensuring a square and perpendicular structure. 

With a cost of approximately $75 to $80 per anchor, this method is cost-effective and accessible to individuals with average DIY skills.

Additionally, a flat load plate option permits use over existing paver stones, further enhancing its versatility. 

Advantages: 

• Quick and easy installation 

• No digging or concrete pouring required 

• Allows for adjustability in post placement 

• Suitable for various post sizes and types (4x4, 6x6, hollow wood, metal) 

• Can be installed over existing paver stones with a flat load plate option 

Disadvantages: 

• May not be as permanent as concrete footings 

• Could be less suitable for extremely large or heavy structures 

Tools/Skills Needed: 

• Handheld electric impact wrench 

• Basic DIY skills