How to Build a Free Standing Patio Cover

Constructing a free standing patio cover provides protection from the elements. A solid structure above you while you are resting on your patio, means that neither the hot sun, or the rain, can ruin your relaxation. If a patio cover is built properly, it will provide you with a quality barrier that will last for years. There is nothing worse than trying to read a good book, enjoying a glass of lemonade, with a 106 F degree heat beating down upon your head. If you have the luxury of a patio built onto your home, or one that was constructed out in the yard, and you'd like to cover it with a good patio cover, read through the following steps to learn how to build one yourself.

Instructions

Measure an area where you'd like to construct your free standing patio cover, and mark it off. A good sized cover is 12-by-12. Snap a line down each side and make sure your lines are straight. Once you begin the construction, it will be too late to make changes.

Dig a hole in the four corners of your patio cover layout. Place inside of each hole a 4-by-4 post anchor. Fill each hole with concrete and allow the concrete to harden overnight.

Set a 4-by-4-by-8 post into each post anchor and attach them with 1/2 inch bolts. Pre-drill 5/8 inch holes into the posts and then insert the bolts.

Drill 5/8 inch holes into the tops of each of the four posts. Attach a 4-by-4 post cap to the top of each post with 1/2 inch bolts.

Place a 4-by-8-by-12 header across two ends of the patio that run parallel to each other. Lay the ends into the post caps and attach them with 1/2 inch bolts.

Lay out 2-by-6-by-12 rafter boards 16 inches on center and connect them to the headers with 2 16 penny nails driven into each end of the rafter. Make sure to spread the nails apart so they do not enable the rafter board to twist.

Cover the rafters with a 1-by-8 TNG plywood. Nail 8-penny galvanized nails through the plywood and into each rafter.

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