How to Build an Observation Deck Over a Covered Patio

Building an observation deck on top of your existing covered porch is a way for the family together to take advantage of the outdoors. From daylight bird watching to nighttime star gazing, once you learn how to build an observation deck over a covered patio, you can get started with a great project that the whole family can enjoy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• (4) 4-by 8-foot manufactured board (painted with outdoor paint to match existing shingles) (5 ) 2-inch-by-4-inch-by-8-foot treated studs (200) 2-inch penny nails (50) 3-inch wood screws (4) 1¾-inch stanchions w/ eyelet tops and threaded bottoms 1-inch rope (length equal to distance around edge of platform Rope ladder Drill and screw bits Miter, circular/table saw Measuring tape Level (line) Pencil

1. Create the base of the observation deck's floor by first determining the angle the roof of the covered patio slopes away from the starting point. Do this by running a level line away from the back edge of the platform out the distance you want to front edge to be. Level the line and then measure the distance from the roof and the line. Measure a foot farther up the line. Take the same measurement at the other side of the platform, and create the proper supports for that edge of the platform using the 2-inch-by-4-inch segments which match the angle needed to meet the platform floor and maintain a level base. Secure the base support to the existing roof structure using the 3-inch wood screws.

2. Cover the platform's base with painted board so that all the edges are covered in paint and protected from the weather. Use 3-inch penny nails to attach the boards to the stud-framed base that was screwed into the roof substructure. Always check that all connections are secure and the structure is sound before moving on to the next step. Once the platform of the observation deck has been created on the existing covered porch, you need to think about safety.

3. Drill the threaded stanchion base with the 3-inch wood screws so that they are firmly attached to the observation deck's floor, and spaced evenly around the outer edge of the platform. Connect the stanchion posts with a durable rope that drapes slightly in between each post, but is secured tightly at each end to help prevent against the hazards of stepping off the platform. Use a dog leash-type connector that can hook and unhook the rope at one end to be used as an entrance or exit.

4. Secure a rope ladder to the existing covered patio structure so that you and the family have easy access to your new observation deck on top of your patio. The rope ladder you use to access the space can be replaced by an attic-style ladder system if you choose to construct an indoor-type entrance system for your new do-it-yourself observation deck.

Tips & Warnings

• Use 4-by-4-foot studs to create the supports for your observation deck. Measure the angle and cut the posts using a miter box system. Create a network of supports using this technique to ensure you have a solid floor for this project.
• Always maintain safety features to avoid potential injury due to falls from the platform.