How To Build A Patio Cover

Building a patio cover will provide your home with shelter from the heat, not to mention add a touch of class to it. This isn’t a one man task though; you’ll need the help of at least one individual.

Required Tools and Materials

Boards (1 x 6, 4 x 4, 2 x 6 and 2 x 12)
Nail gun
Framing square
Roof shingles
Flashing
Metal screen
Drill
Concrete anchors
Plywood
Level
Stapler
Drill bit (1 ½)
Post base
Tarp paper

Measuring and Setting up the Post Base

Begin by measuring the patio cover and the roofline pitch. When it’s done, get the post base. Set it into place using the concrete anchors. To continue building a patio cover, get the 4 x 4s. Install these on the post by nailing them securely.

Constructing the Support Beam

Take the 2 x 12 boards and install them along the roofline. Mark the rafters a couple of feet at the middle point. Shape the rafter and tails in accordance with the looks of your roof pitch. Now you must snap the ridgeline and install the rafters. You’ll need another person to help you here.

Setting in the Rafters and Tarp Paper

Set the block in the midst of the rafter and tails. Drill three ½ in openings every three rafters. Take the metal screen. Use the stapler to fasten it to each block. Now you have to put the roof decking in place. The decking required for building a patio cover is 5/8 in. This task requires two individuals.

Add the flashing at the meeting point between the rooflines of the roof and patio. Get the tarp paper and set it up on the roof. Install it so there’s a 6 in projection. Begin laying it from the bottom all the way up. Both sides need to have half a foot of overlap.

Putting on the Shingles

Now you can add the roof shingles. Again you need to start from the bottom of the roof and work your way up. Follow the instruction manual for installing the shingles. When you get a couple of feet down the ridgeline, put the roof jack on.

The final touches to building a patio cover will be sheathing. Finally you can put the 1 x 6 boards all over the base. Make sure that they are sliced according to the proper measurements.

Tips and Warnings

A patio cover is a complex task. You need the help of at least person. Do not try this task if you don’t feel comfortable installing roof shingles or rafters. Even with experience, don’t attempt this task during foul weather.

Even in an agreeable climate, you should take plenty of breaks. This task will take time; do not hurry it or you’ll make a mistake.
Be careful when using the drill and other instruments. Always follow the user guide for using them.

When you have finished building a patio cover, you can rest easy. The hours you and your friend labored for will be rewarded as you rest and marvel at your creation.