How to Install Patio Overhead Rafters

The rafters of a patio overhead serve two main purposes. They're meant to firmly hold the overhead in place, and they're meant to add decoration to your patio. Patio overhead rafters are moderately easy to assemble and install.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Rafter boards
• Saw or another cutting tool
• Hurricane ties
• Galvanized nails
• Joists

1. Lay out your patio overhead rafters on the floor or ground to see how they'll look on your overhead. Organize them exactly how you want them to appear. This is your chance to make sure you have enough materials before you get started and to make any changes to your design before you start installing the decorative rafters.

2. Decide how far apart you can install them and what, if any, designs you want to go on your rafters.

3. Carve designs in your rafters if you desire. Consider creating curved designs in the rafters or simply staining the rafters for added effect in your patio overhead. Whichever way you decide, it's important you create the design or decorate your rafters before you install them.

4. Install the rafters by attaching one end to the ledger that's attached to your house and placing it in a hanger. Then rest the other end on a beam. Make sure you hang them in the place and manner that you want.

5. Nail the rafter to the joist hanger with galvanized nails. Reinforce the joint with a hurricane tie.