How To Make A Patio Cover

A patio cover is a great way to add shade and protection from the elements to your outdoor living space. It can also help to extend the life of your patio furniture. If you're handy with tools, you can build a patio cover yourself in a weekend or two. Here's how:

Materials

4x4 posts
2x6 rafters
2x4 purlins
1x6 decking boards
Roofing felt
Asphalt shingles
Nails
Screws
Concrete

Tools

Saw
Drill
Hammer
Level
Tape measure
Chalk line
Shovel

Instructions

Determine the size and shape of your patio cover. The cover should be large enough to provide adequate shade and protection from the elements. It should also be in proportion to the size of your patio.
Mark the location of the posts. The posts should be spaced 6-8 feet apart. Use a level to make sure the posts are plumb.
Dig holes for the posts. The holes should be 2 feet deep and 1 foot wide. Fill the holes with concrete and set the posts in place.
Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours.
Attach the rafters to the posts. The rafters should be spaced 24 inches apart. Use nails or screws to attach the rafters to the posts.
Attach the purlins to the rafters. The purlins should be spaced 16 inches apart. Use nails or screws to attach the purlins to the rafters.
Install the decking boards. The decking boards should be spaced 1/4 inch apart. Use nails or screws to attach the decking boards to the purlins.
Install the roofing felt. The roofing felt should be overlapped by 6 inches. Use nails or staples to attach the roofing felt to the decking boards.
Install the asphalt shingles. The asphalt shingles should be overlapped by 4 inches. Use nails or screws to attach the asphalt shingles to the roofing felt.

Tips

Use pressure-treated lumber for all of the components of the patio cover. This will help to protect the lumber from rot and decay.
Make sure the patio cover is securely attached to the house. This will help to prevent the patio cover from being damaged by wind.
Inspect the patio cover regularly and make any necessary repairs. This will help to keep the patio cover in good condition and extend its lifespan.