Wednesday, April 10, 2024
HomeBuildHow To Build A Patio Cover Step By Step

How To Build A Patio Cover Step By Step

How To Get A Permit For Your Paver Patio Hassle

How To Build a Patio Cover – Lots of Tips

If you live in a non-HOA neighborhood and have an understanding and easy-going local government, congratulations! The rest of us officially hate you, but youre one lucky guy/gal. Youre ready to build a paver patio, so move on to Step 2!

For the rest of you: my best advice is to be patient. Your HOA and local building department will ask you to jump through hoop after hoop after hoop before theyll give you a permit.

Contact them well in advance of the date you plan to start your project, and play nice with them at every step of the way. You will get your permit if you follow the rules.

Proper Patio Cover Pitch

After determining the size and design of the patio cover, go back to your drawing and add the cover. Starting at the outboard support, there should be at least 6 ft. 8 in. of clearance between the ground and the bottom of the lower girder. That will set the lowest point of the patio cover.


Now set your ruler from that point up to the roof. The height of the patio cover above the roof will determine what length Roof Riser you will need. The point here is that you need to provide enough pitch or slant so that the patio cover readily sheds precipitation. The proper pitch will be determined by manufacturer recommendations as well as the rated snow loads for your area. The pitch of the patio cover can also affect the sizing of the rafters. If need be, the pitch can be raised easily by installing taller roof risers.

Fiberglass Freestanding Patio Cover

This all-white patio perches on four stone posts. The rounded white posts look elegant and suit the window trims very well.

The beams feature curvy edges that make the patio look more attractive. And the fiberglass roof is just nice. It protects you from the rain, but it does not hinder you from getting the sunlight.

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Freestanding Patio Cover With Traditional Accent

This patio provides a bit traditional accent to your backyard. It is like the ones that you can encounter in Bali.


The stained wooden posts give a more natural and impressive look to the patio. The exposed beam ceiling makes the patio look more attractive although it does not feature sophisticated patterns.

The black roof shingle plays an important role in creating the traditional ambiance. It suits the chairs perfectly.

Since the roof slopes down from the center, it does not accumulate water, snow, and leaves which makes it easier to clean.

Selecting Materials To Build A Patio Cover

How to build a patio cover

While looks are important, you want to make sure that the materials fit the structure. Since my patio cover was going to have a slight slope, shingles were out. A tar roof would work, but it would be a heavy smell like a BP oil spill. I decided on corrugated metal roofing because its resistant to high winds, is lightweight, and is structurally sound.

Using corrugated metal also allows me to reduce the degree of slope, or roof pitch needed to a mere 10 percent, or a 1-to-10 pitch. This meant the patio cover could start at the edge of the houses roof at a height of eight feet and slope down to seven feet, leaving a clearance of more than six and a half feet between the lowest part of the frame’s headers and the ground at its outer edge.


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How To Purchase The Materials

  • Be flexible in purchasing the materials. Your state laws and the availability of the materials in your local store could be different from the above guide so you may want to modify the plan accordingly.
  • Shop around a bit to get the best materials for a bargain price. Be smart and do not fall into the trap of aggressive and pushy store associates.
  • Finally, make sure to check if you need any local building permits to build the patio cover. The best should be to get in touch with the licensing and permit office to understand your states building requirements.

Freestanding Metal Roofing Patio Cover

The aim of building a freestanding patio cover is to protect you from the rain and the glare of the sun. Therefore, you can use any materials for the roof including the tin roof.

Tin roof, just like any other metal roofs, has many benefits. Tin roofs are more durable than wooden and plastic roofs. They are also lighter which makes them easier to install. They are also resistant to fire.

This patio features a very simple structure and there is nothing wrong with that. The simple structure tends to be practical rather than aesthetical.

The black metal posts and beams are sturdy enough to support the tin roof. To get a cooler breeze, a fan hangs over the table.


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Apply The Solid/vented Tape And Fasten The Sheets

As soon as you apply the first sheet, you can start fastening it with our specifically designed screws. Start from one corner and work your way along screwing only into the purlins. Not into the rafters. Once fastened the first sheet, you can apply the H profile. In this case we are using a polycarbonate profile that can be easily cut at the proper length of the sheet. Just apply it on the length side of the first sheet and proceed fastening the second polycarbonate multiwall sheet after have added it inside the H profile.

Building A Patio Cover

HOW TO LAY A PATIO STEP BY STEP ( PART 6 ) **DIY BUILD**

Overview: The new patio cover will be built using Western Red Cedar 4×6 posts, 4×6 beams, and 2×6 rafters . The roof will be constructed using Multi-Core Galvalume metal roofing. The posts will be attached to the slab using galvanized post anchors and the rafters will be attached to the beams using various straps, ties, and joist hangers.

Free-Standing Patio Cover Plans

Assumptions: A concrete patio slab is already in place with footings capable of supporting the load of the new patio cover . The footings are not shown in this example, since they vary considerably depending on your location and soil composition.


The dimensions indicated in these drawings of the existing structure are for example only. Your existing structure will enfluence your patio cover design and make it distinctive and unique.

Front Elevation

Since this patio cover design has supporting posts located close to the existing structure, I tried to position the patio cover and slab, so that the posts were not located directly in front of windows and doors.

Side Elevation

This patio cover plan example uses galvanized metal as the roofing material. You can alternatively use shingles as roofing material, providing the roof pitch on your patio cover falls within the shingle manufacturer’s specifications. This patio cover on mycarpentry.com provides an example of a shingle roof design.


Roof Framing PlanRoof Plan – Top RightRoof Plan – Front RightBuilding a Patio Cover – Brace Detail

What next?

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Diy Aluminum Patio Cover Kits

Do you love being outdoors, but hate being driven inside when it gets hot or when a sudden storm arrives to ruin the fun? A DIY patio roof kit may be the perfect solution for you.

You can choose from an incredibly wide array of patio cover designs, whether you want to install it yourself or have a professional do the work for you. You can even choose from patio covers that provide you with the versatility to choose whether you want full sun, full shade, or something in between.


High-quality patio covers can stand up to the weather and elements for many years. They can even withstand the force of a hurricane. Here is everything that you need to know about patio covers and your options for installing one in your own home.

Tips For Purchasing Materials

  • Be flexible. I had originally planned on using 4×4 beams and joists, but local codes wouldnt allow for them, so I used 10×2″ headers and 6×2″ joists, which worked out just fine. Also, be prepared to modify your plan at the store when youre getting your materials, as doing so can save you money. For instance, I chose drywall screws instead of nails because, for some reason, they were less expensive, and they wont try to work themselves back out after a few years. Another substitution I made was choosing three- and four-inch deck screws instead of framing nails. Although more costly, they hold much better than framing nails outdoors.
  • Shop around. Shopping around for the best prices for materials was absolutely necessary. In the same town, in an area of fewer than 10 miles, the difference in prices was enormous. Total material costs ranged from $2,200 down to $800.
  • Beware the store associates. Some are aggressive and want to push customers into an insane buying frenzy, bringing up a storm of confusing nonsense that somehow equates spending more to saving more. The lumber store I bought from had an associate who simply made sure I bought the correct materials for the job by looking over my plan and suggesting shorter screws for the joist hangars and a lower grade of lumber for the areas of the patio cover that would not be exposed to the weather. The associate also arranged for delivery, which cost $25.
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    Add And Level Paver Sand

    Place your pre-cut 1 inch PVC pipes on top of your firmly tamped paver base. Carefully pour leveling sand in between the PVC pipes and on all sides in two to three feet increments.

    Then place your 2×4 on the PVC pipes and screed, or drag, the board across the pipes gently to level the paver sand. While you can access the area, gently lift out the PVC pipes, fill and level those voids with leveling sand, and replace the pipes along the path.

    Continue this process until the entire patio area is covered with paver leveling sand.

    Building Your Very Own Aluminum Patio Cover

    How To Build A Patio Cover Step By Step â Schmidt Gallery ...

    If you have ever dreamed of having shelter from the scorching rays of the sun or from summer rain showers when you are enjoying time outside, but dont want to have to pay for a professional patio installation? A DIY patio cover is for you. An aluminum patio cover of your very own may be a lot easier to install than you think.

    Patio cover kits can be bought in standard sizes or can be as customized as you need them to be. You can choose the color, add additional columns, and install fan beams so that you can add outdoor ceiling fans. You can even opt for a skylight so that you can have some natural light and sunshine in the midst of your shady patio area.

    Whether you consider yourself an avid do-it-yourselfer or not, you may be amazed by how easy it is for homeowners to use a patio kit to install a gorgeous patio cover that will last for years to come. An online installation video provides simple instructions for every step of the way.

    An installation guide is included to give you a companion explanation for installing your patio cover. If youre wondering just how much it will cost for you to get the patio roof youve been dreaming of, dont hesitate to reach out for a free quote.

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    Choose And Prepare The Area

    When I decided to build a paver patio, I had only a few possibilities for its location because our backyard is small. In the end, I decided to build it adjacent to an existing concrete patio. This choice helped me determine the dimensions of the area which I needed to prepare. With my dimensions decided, I marked the area using a tape measure, landscaping stakes, and line marking spray paint.

    PRO TIP: If the area you plan to build upon is currently covered with grass, use your lawn mower to cut the area as short as possible after measuring.

    You will also need to remove additional grass and soil beyond the eventual boarder of your patio, so be sure to include an additional 12-16 on all sides of the dimensions as you mark them. If you want to put this sod back later, you can always keep it stacked in a shady area and keep it moist using your garden hose.

    How Deep Should My Paver Base Be

    When it comes to laying a firm paver base that will last for years to come, we recommend following the instructions of your local building department when you apply for your permit.

    Your building department should have established standards of paver base depth based upon the temperature fluctuations in your zone.

    That said, the deeper your paver base, the better it will be able to withstand foot traffic and years of wear and tear.

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    General Instructions For Building A Patio Polycarbonate Roof

    Build a cover patio is not an exclusive job for professional people. On this guide, we go through the few steps required to build a beautiful roof for you patio. First of all you want to take the measurement of the roof support. If youre building it for the first time, consider building the structure with purlins at a proper distance. The purlins which of those ones need to be spaced no more than 800mm between each other. Consider also at least a 5° slope, This will ensure correct water run-off. Moreover, Ensure the side that has UV protection is facing the sun. This is the side with an adhesive label or ink-jet marking on the edge.

    A Freestanding Patio Tends To Be Easier To Install

    How To Build A Patio Cover Step By Step

    Attaching the cover of your patio on the roof of your house can be arduous and harmful. If the structure of the roof is not strong enough, it cannot support the cover.

    Unlike the ones that rely on the roof of a house, a freestanding patio is stronger and safer because it is supported by four posts that do not rely on any other buildings.

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    Installing Different Types Of Patio Covers

  • 1Purchase a patio umbrella for a cheap premade option that is easy to set up. This is the most basic and economic option to cover your patio. Get a patio umbrella that fits on your patio and is mobile so you can adjust it to block the sun as it moves, or shelter against light rain.XResearch source
  • An advantage of patio umbrellas is that you can include them as part of an outdoor furniture set to complete your patio decor.
  • 2Use some poles and a tarp or canvas to create an affordable outdoor canopy. Cover your patio with a tarp attached to 4 poles if it is located away from your home. Use only 2 poles and a tarp attached to the wall of your home .XResearch source
  • Get a tarp or canvas that already has grommets in the corners to easily tie it to the poles. Use a sturdy cord to tie everything together.
  • You can use ropes and stakes, or buckets weighed down with sand or water, to secure the canopy in place. Stakes anchor the ropes that support the canopy’s poles in place, or buckets act as weights to hold the rope and poles in place.
  • 3Buy a sail shade and tie it above your patio with the provided accessories. Look for secure points you can tie the sail shade to such as posts, trees, or secure parts of your home. Install wooden or steel posts at the corners of your patio if there are not enough existing points to tie the sail shade to.XResearch source
  • If you do attach the sail shade to trees, this should be for temporary use only so you donât damage the trees.
  • How To Build A Concrete Patio

    Create a prominent outdoor space with a strong and stylish concrete patio. The base of rigid patios can be constructed with mortared brick, mortared flagstone, tile, or concrete pad. Concrete provides a solid base beneath these materials. It also prevents them from cracking as the ground shifts from temperatures changes.

    In most areas, a concrete patio begins with 4 inches of compacted stone. The difference is the depth you dig before you pour.

    If you install a concrete patio, dig out a space 8 inches deep 4 inches for the some, another 4 inches for the concrete, and another 2 inches to allow for mortar and brick.

    Form Release Agent
  • Step 1Step 1Lay Out and Excavate the Patio

    Lay out the patio with batterboards and masons line. Remove the sod, dig out 8 inches of soil, and compact the exposed surface. Spread gravel on the surface in 2-inch layers, compacting each layer and adding gravel for a bed 4 inches deep.

    Install a second set of layout lines on stakes. Position the stakes outside the first set of lines, offset from the first set by the width of the forms youll use. Level the lines with a line level or water level.

  • Step 10Step 10Let the Concrete Cure

    Lay plastic sheeting over the finished surface. The moisture trapped inside eliminates the need for watering during the curing stage.

    Let the concrete cure at least 48 hours, then remove the form boards.

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    Flashing A Patio Roof Ledger

    Unless it will be protected from rain by the houses eaves or a solid roof, a roof ledger that is fastened directly to a house with wood siding should be capped with galvanized metal Z-flashing that tucks up under siding to prevent water from seeping in behind it.

    Where integral flashing isnt possible, such as on a stucco wall, use Z-flashing and caulk the top edge. This is a job you must do before fastening the overheads roof rafters in place.

    You can buy L- or Z-shaped flashing or bend it yourself. To bend sheet-metal flashing, make a form by clamping two 2 by 4s together on each side of the metal, and then hammer the metal to create a sharp edge at each fold.

    Fit the flashing in place, caulk the top edge, and nail it with galvanized nails long enough to penetrate at least 1 inch into the structural members. Then caulk the nail heads.

    If the house is sided with shingles or lap siding, simply slip the metals top edge up under the bottom edge of the shingles or siding as far as possible.

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