subject: Simple Patio Covers Can Be Built Just Like This [print this page] Simple Patio Covers Can Be Built Just Like This
The idea of putting up four posts (usually) and then covering it with a series of beams is what most covers will consist of. With some handy skills, the right tools and some help for the heavy lifting, you can probably manage to build your own patio cover.
However, I would recommend you get started by getting some plans or at least patio design ideas from an architect, builder or fine home magazine. Having your patio design laid out first will save you a lot of frustration. Since the pergola style for patio covers is probably the simplest, it is the most common and even most elegant looking.
Once you have your plans, you can make a list of materials. You will be able to judge how much wood you need and then you can figure out how you will anchor your posts in the ground. There are a variety of styles that help you directly mount to cement or you can pour footings and set your brackets in that as it cures. Since your whole patio cover will rest on these, you should do it right - don't skimp here.
Now that you have your materials and you can begin construction on this exciting project. Think of the enjoyment you will have under your shaded patio and know that you built that cover yourself. Make sure that your footings are in the right place. When you set the posts, check and double check for plumb and square. Remember, your beams and other lattice cross member pieces will be sitting on this 'foundation'. There is nothing worse than having your pergola being racked. This makes it so obvious that you built it yourself - and did a poor job at that!
Once your posts have been secured, you can move on to placing the beams. These, too, will be anchored but in this case to the posts themselves. There are brackets that you can buy at your local home improvement store. Most have a galvanized zinc metal look, so you may want to paint them. You can also make your own if you know how to weld. It is just a nicer touch, but will take you far more time - time spent taking away from you being closer to enjoying your patio cover!
As you put the beams in place, secure them using lag screws. As you get them in, you should notice how your pergola feels more rigid. There should only be a slight amount of movement, but nothing wobbly. It is common to use 4 x 4s because they can be pulled off the shelf at your home improvement store. But, you might want to go for a more substantial looking pergola and get larger 4 x 6 or even 6 x 6 posts and beams.
What makes pergola style patio covers unique are the lattice nature of the top. This is achieved by using more beams or boards placed on end to give some height and allows for more shade. This will be a nice place to have your vines or other greenery growing on, providing ample shade and ambiance over time as they mature. A pergola provides for one of the most simple, but elegant types of shaded covered patio.
Building patio covers is hard work as you can imagine, but so rewarding. The sense of being able to sit beneath your own pergola, knowing that you built it and can enjoy your patio for years to come is a rewarding experience. If you get really fancy, you can even install outdoor lighting or a hanging chair or swing to further enhance your patio and its versatility.
The key to building pergola style patio covers according to Mike is first understanding how patio covers to make it simple.
