This page will provide general guidelines for installation of pews in your church.  For information on delivery, moving pews, or hiring an installer, go here.

Of course we can not illustrate all situations, but the majority of sanctuaries are rectangular in shape.  With the stage /altar / chancel area in the front, and doors i the back.  You will want to check with your local building inspector if you have a building permit for work being done, to see what the local code requires.  It is very important to allow sufficient access and egress into the room so you can get people in, or in the unlikely event of an emergency, get them out quickly.

Generally you will need a rear aisle or walkway of 30" or more, side aisles on the far left and right sides of 36" or more (30" in some small rooms), and a front area (between the front pew and stage) of 6' or more.  See illustration. 

Pews are spaced out at 36" back to back spacing to allow 24" for the pew and 12" for walking.  You can go as close as 32", but you will not be able to cross your legs or let someone get by. 

It is advisable to bolt the pews down to the floor. This will eliminate shifting in the pews, and also prevent the pew from turning over if too many people stand or sit at the same time.  There are basically two types of brackets used, either angle brackets or concealed anchors.  Angle brackets are easy to use and we have them available on our website.  Pew Brackets Available Here

 Angle Brackets

Concealed anchors (also called lead expansion bolts)  are a bit harder to come by, more expensive, and more difficult to use properly.  If you are using concealed anchors, you will need to have pews that have a hole in the side of the support (leg) that also has a hole in the bottom.  Supports with a single anchor hole tend to work loose over time - as people stand they pull on the back of the pew in front which causes a rocking motion on the pew, loosing a single anchor.  It is better to use two anchors on each support instead of one.   To install pews using concealed anchors you will need to first put the pew in the correct location, checking the adjoining pews for alignment, then place a drop of Elmer's or similar glue inside the hole so it drips down to the floor  or carpet.  Then lean the pew forward, drill your holes for the anchor bolts (concrete floors will need a hammer drill), clean the surface area of the floor, put the anchor in the floor, tighten to expand the base of the anchor,  lean the pew back in place, then add your washer, nut, and tighten them down.   As stated, angle brackets are easier to use.