[Vipergrün]

I'd like to build a nice patio cover/pergola the length of the rear of my house. I have an existing patio and the vertical posts would be placed along the outer edge. Am I better off extending out a bit further and putting in new footings (currently grass), or can I cut a "U" notch at the edge of the current patio dig it out, and re-fill with concrete? I think extending out would look funny, but would be easier. I think it's a typical 4-5" slab.

Hope that makes sense...

Thanks for your thoughts!

-Brad