How To Put A Roof On A Pergola: Final Words
Installing a roof on top of your pergola is a pretty simple task. You dont need to be a rocket scientist to get the job done. Pick out the right material, get your screwdriver ready, and youll have a functional roof in no time.
If you dont want to bother, you may want to consider getting a gazebo instead. Just read our post explaining the differences between a gazebo and pergola beforehand and make your choice!
What Is The Pergola Used For
The main uses of the pergola are as follows:
Add Value And Appearance
As mentioned earlier, the roof of your pergola can have a large effect on the curb appeal of the project. Whether your design incorporates a shed, gable, or hip rafters, the goal is to build a functional, strong structure you can be proud of. Taking your time, doing your research, and working safely are key to the quality and functionality of your new pergola.
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Diy Pergola Shade Ideas
This post may contain affiliate links. We make a small commission if you buy the products from these links . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. But we only recommend products we would use ourselves. For more information, .
These first few pergola cover ideas provide a lot of shade and some protection from rain but arent totally waterproof.
Installing The Clear Roof Panels
Now we were finally ready for the roof! All that prep took way more time that actually adding the roof, but I know proper prep is important .
We discovered that our house is not square on the property and made our pergola line up with the fence so it didnt look crooked. So our roofing had to be measured carefully to ensure the overhang was the proper distance all the way down.
So we measured the start and end of every 26 panel and cut each one individually. It ended up being that each panel was 1/4 longer at the back end than the front end. We put the slightly diagonal cut line against the crooked house and left the factory cut line at the overhang.
To cut the panels, we clamped a level to create our cut line and used a circular saw to run right down the edge of it. It was super quick to measure and cut each one. The sound of the saw hitting each corrugation is a little scary at first, but it cuts so clean that there is no need to worry.
After cutting we placed the beautiful clear roof panels on top of the pergola. They just sit onto the horizontal and vertical closure strips. Once in place, it is time to start securing it.
Each screw hole needs to be predrilled with a 1/4 drill bit first to allow for expansion and contraction due to change in temperatures. Without this there might be cracking and that is not desirable! So we used both sets of hands to make quick work of it.
One person predrilled the holes and the other one came in behind with the special screws.
- 195.2K
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How To Attach A Pergola To An Existing Composite Deck
Pergola over existing Deck · Pergola over existing Deck. I have a free-standing deck that butts up against the house but is not attached to it. It is approximately 12 x 15, and is less than 18 off the ground. The main structural support comes from 4×6 beams spaced 6 feet apart, with each supported by four concrete footings.
Patio Roof With Sleek Design
Sleek design has always provided clean and modern look to any buildings including a patio. Therefore, if you want your patio look modern, you need to install a sleek patio roof.
This patio roof is installed for the aesthetic purpose. It does not cover the patio completely which allows rain drops on this dining table. However, it does complement the house very well.
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What Material Should Your Pergola Roof Be Made Of
Roofed pergolas have a certain elegance to them. But more importantly, they provide functionality and durability this depends significantly on what material the roof is made of.
Choose whats right for you depending on the weather conditions in your locale. Imagine having a fabric roof that isnt waterproof in a city where it rains all week. No one wants to deal with the aftermath of that!
So lets explore your options
Two Videos Cover The Design Questions And Construction Process Of A Post And Beam Patio Roof Structure
Video 1: Design a Roof extension over an existing patio
Existing patio is outside the dining room on the west side of the house. the patio is essentially unusable on a sunny afternoon in the summer.
This video looks at a couple of design options, including attaching the roof ledger below that of the existing eaves and setting the patio roof atop the existing roof.
The latter option was chosen because the low roof and roof beam would have blocked the view from the dining area. Did we say that the house is in Bozeman, MT, where the view is worth viewing?
Work from the view back, not from the house, out.
- Calculate the sightline clearance height, about 6 feet, 2 inches, in this case.
- Determine the beam size: 8 inches in this case.
- Choose a roof pitch and roof structure
This places the new roof on top of the existing roof. The next question is what to do with the existing eave under the new roof: kick it or keep it?
To tie the design together, Peter chose to cut the rafter tails off the extend the exterior wall up to the underside of the new roof. As it turned out, the existing roof structure is a truss system, but they were able to contact the original truss manufacturer to verify that cutting the tails off would not jeopardize the structural integrity of the trusses.
From the we-hope-this-is-obvious desk: Never alter engineered trusses without the approval of a licensed professional engineer. Ever.
The next design decision: material selection
Video 2: Construction process
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Canvas Shade Sail For Patio Roof
Simple yet elegant. This canvas shade makes a pretty good roof for the patio. It does not only accentuate the patio which gives it a more exquisite look, but also protect you when you feel like to enjoy the view of your backyard.
This patio roof features curtain tracks that are attached on each of the beams. They allow you to adjust the canvas shade as you please.
You can draw the canvas back to get natural light or close it so that the patio will be completely covered.
Cutting Out The Joints
For this step, you will need two 195cm posts and one 3m post.
Measure the exact width of your posts. In this case, they were 9.5cm wide. Now take one of the 195cm long posts and mark a line, exactly 9.5cm away from the end. Place your set square on the line and mark the middle of the post with a line. Using the handsaw make a cut following the lines. Make sure to make the cut on one end of the post only. Repeat the process for the second 195cm post.
Now take the 3m post and make the same joint cut on both sides.
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Preparing A Plan For Your Pitched Roof Pergola
Before summing up everything, here are some important suggestions for successful construction of your pitched pergola.
Most people encounter difficulties during the construction process without the presence of proper pitched roof pergola plans. You must have a detailed plan before proceeding. Put your plan onto paper in an organized order to proceed accordingly.
This saves you time and money. First, begin with the research on the local laws for building pergola roof and associated tax regulations. Additionally, consider the space you have for the construction.
You can collect some interesting pitched roof designs for inspiration. They are available over the internet and in home décor magazines. It is essential to decide whether you are attempting a DIY project or wish to hire a professional for the purpose.
Adding A Pergola To Your Existing Deck
Building your own pergola on your deck? We admire your tenacity! As you enter the planning stages of adding a pergola to your existing deck, stick to these guidelines:
The number one priority with a pergola is structural security. To ensure safety, invest in durable materials that provide a durable base. When building a pergola atop your deck you will need high-quality hardware, including post bases that are designed to be seen, timber bolts to connect wood to wood for your top frame, and post-to-beam support, preferably thats been hot-dipped galvanized.
Before you begin building your pergola, check with your local building department to see if your project requires any permits.
Keep your pergola safe by avoiding materials that will make the structure top-heavy. When in doubt, go with fabric panels or light wood lattice. If youre not convinced your pergola is sturdy, veer on the side of caution and add railings in between the posts.
Theres no need to build your own with a Trex® Pergola kit you benefit from the incredible strength delivered by the all-aluminum design and stainless steel hardware. Choose between a wide variety of custom sizes, shapes, and styles for almost unlimited design options. You can even add a manually retractable fabric canopy system for maximum shade coverage.
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Diy Pergola Tutorial How To:
***WARNING!! This is a construction project which requires use of power tools, heavy construction materials, and a working knowledge of safe DIY practices. If you are not comfortable with any of these required skills, please save yourself injury, trips to the ER, death, dismemberment, physical trauma, or emotional trauma caused by a nagging husband or wife asking you why you cannot seem to complete this project. This is not a project for beginners. By utilizing this tutorial, you agree utilize information contained herein at your own risk. Neither HeatheredNest.com nor Remodelaholic.com will assume liability for any injuries, etc, incurred as a result of following the tutorial information written in this post. You must also ensure you have checked and are in compliance with any local building codes pertinent to this project. Installation requirements will vary based upon factors such as the surface on which the pergola will stand, be it ground, a deck or patio, etc. ***
Before you start hoisting beams in the air and getting that saw buzzing, make sure youve got a good plan worked out. Decide exactly where youre building your pergola . And then, you need to determine the size of the pergola youd like to build. Ours is about 14×14 . The strength and structural integrity of your pergola will depend greatly upon the size of the structure you are planning to build. Again, be sure to check local building codes for compliance before beginning the project.
Securing Foundation Posts To The Wall
For extra stability, you should attach the remaining two foundation posts to the wall.
Firstly place the remaining two 211cm posts, upright 3 meters apart from each other . Next, using a knife or a nail mark the position of the post on the wall. Predrill at least 3 holes in the wall, right between the lines and insert wall plugs. Take one of the construction screws and using the angle grinder cut the head off, in the way that you end up with a sharp end. Insert the screw in the wall, leaving around 5mm sticking out. Place the foundation post in the position, make sure its leveled and press it against the wall. You should end up with a clear mark left by the screw. Now, turn the post around and predrill holes in the marked places. Attach the post to the wall and to the base using the construction screws.
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How To Attach Pergola Posts To Deck
05-03-2011·how to attach pergola posts to deck Hubby & I have built a deck free standing and now want to add a pergola. Ive found Pryda Bolt Down Post Anchors description of the product says used for locating posts onto existing deck.Replacing pergola posts?09-06-2020Attach pergola to metal posts27-02-2020Attaching pergola posts to a pre-existing deck.17-08-2009Overhang on pergola construction24-07-2009
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Can A Pergola Have A Solid Roof
If a solid roof on your pergola is what you desire, then no one is stopping you from having one. As long as the structure and support necessary to hold the roof are present, youre free to add a solid roof to your pergola.
There are many who consider a pergola with a full roof to be a form of gazebo or pavilion, but as long as the structure the roof is built on is a pergola, youre still living the pergola lifestyle.
It might be shocking to learn, but some pergola styles already include a solid roof or feature a roof that can transform into a solid structure. There are plenty of benefits of having the increased amount of coverage that a typical pergola does not offer.
So why hesitate to add a solid roof to your pergola? As long as you have the ability to hold the weight on top of your pergola, then go for it!
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How To Build A Roof Over My Existing Deck
Summer may be over, but its the perfect time to start building a roof over your deck for next years sunny season. If youre looking to enjoy the great outdoors right from your backyard while still getting some relief from the sun or rain, a roof over your deck or patio is the perfect solution.
So, how do you go about it? You may want to just get it over with and do it yourself, but sometimes its better to hire a professional who can get it done efficiently. In this blog, were going to cover the benefits of building a roof over your deck, how to do it, and the average costs. Here at Legacy Service, we will do all we can to help you perfect your homes exterior. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with us for a roof replacement, give us a call at 215-798-9790 or fill out a contact form here.
Attach The Horizontal Closure Strips
The first step is to attach the horizontal closure strips to the top of the pergola.
For this, youll need wood screws. They work best if they have washers on them to prevent them from pulling right through the plastic closure strips.
Line the end of one of the horizontal closure strips up with the edge of your pergola. Make sure that it is running straight along the beam.
Screw it onto the beam in the low sections of the closure strip.
When you get to the end of the first strip, attach the next strip and continue screwing it on to the beam until you get to the end of your pergola frame.
Once the first row is complete, cut off any extra closure strip with tin snips.
Then move on to the next row. Ideally, it should be 2 feet over from the first strip, but it can be up to 3 feet away.
The important thing is to make sure that youve got the hills and valleys lined up straight across from each other. Otherwise, youll have trouble getting the corrugated roofing to lay flat like its supposed to.
Continue adding horizontal closure strips until you get all the way across the top of your pergola.
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What Can I Cover My Pergola With
These next few options on the list are waterproof pergola covers which can also provide shade but may take a little more work to install. 1 | Put Up A Shade Sail. Photo by My Amazing Yard Inc Contemporary patio. 2 | Install A Tin Roof On Your Pergola . 3 | Add Pergola Roof Panels. 4 | Install Wood Planks.
Does A Pergola Add Value To A Home
Heres what we tell our customers: yes, a pergola will add market value to any house. Since outdoor living has become more popular than ever, the value of properties with a pergola or a comfortable outdoor space has been on the rise. A safe gauge for a deck or backyard improvement is about 50% 80% for your ROI.
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