How to Build a Porch Roof
Building a roof on your porch will provide protection during bad weather, especially rain. The porch will allow you to spend more time outside on your porch than you normally could. This project will save you a lot of money because you won't need to hire a contractor to do all the work.
Things You'll Need:
- Tape Measure
- Pencil
- Paper
- Level
- Nails
- Nail Gun
- Lag Bolts
- Plywood
- Roof Shingles
- Chalk Line
- Inspect your porch and the side of your house where you want to build the porch. Make sure all the structures are solidly built and can withstand a porch, this includes making sure the porch is level. You'll probably want to hire a contractor to inspect your house first and repair anything.
- Draw a diagram of the roof and include your existing structures, including any repairs the contractor made.
- Take the diagram to a local lumber and home improvement store for purchasing the supplies you need. Make sure you talk with a local expert so you know you're buying all the right supplies.
- Install your posts and rafters first. Usually there is a plate attached to your posts that also is used to attach the rafters. Make sure the boards are sanded before attaching them. The rafters and posts are usually attached with lag bolts.
- Cover the rafters with plywood. The plywood should be easily attached with nails and a nail gun.
- Finish the project by attaching roof shingles with the same nail gun. Measure and mark the roof with chalk line to make sure you're attaching the shingles in a straight line.