BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Install Patio Overhead Posts

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Installing posts for your patio overhead isn't a very difficult process. The easiest posts to install are single pieces of lumber, such as 4-by-6 boards or 8-by-8 boards. Which size you choose depends on the weight of your patio overhead and what look you're going for.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

4-by-6 planks
8-by-8 planks
Circular saw
Table saw
Drill
V-shaped drill bit
Jigsaw
Wood sealant
Post-hole digger
Cement
Round shovel
Bolts and washers

Step1

Trim the tops of the posts so they're even and the same height before you start installing your patio overhead posts.

Step2

Decorate your plain posts if you wish. You can run a round-over bit to establish a curved edge for your post, or you can dress the base of the posts by attaching a small piece of lumber around the bottom of it to create a simple box. Another idea is to ring the post near the top with grooves using a round-over or V-shaped bit.

Step3

Treat your post boards with preservatives before you install them. These posts will be exposed to the elements, so make sure to protect the wood so it can last longer without rotting. Many pieces of lumber come pretreated so you don't have to worry about treatment.

Step4

Install the posts into the ground or cement as desired. If you are installing the posts into cement, pound the posts into the ground and surround them with cement as needed. Level the cement so it's smooth.

Step5

Install the joints on the tops of the patio overhead posts so they're secured tightly. Once you have finished your posts, you are ready to install the remainder of your deck.