How to Build Deck Roofs

Create a shaded area for relaxing by adding a roof to your deck.

Building a deck roof can be a simple process as long as you have moderate knowledge of construction and the right tools. Some people don't use deck roofs while others enjoy having such a roof to keep the sun off of them while relaxing on their decks. A deck roof can be a practical addition to your house.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Post-hole digger
• Cement
• Water
• Carpenter's level
• 4-by-4's
• 2-by-8's
• Lag bolts
• Tape measure
• 2-by-8 brackets
• Hammer
• Roofing nails
• Plywood
• Tar paper
• Staple gun
• Roll roofing
• Bucket of tar

Instructions

1. Dig the holes where you are putting the 4-by-4's with the shovel or post-hole digger. Pour the cement in dry. Add 1 1/2 gallons of water for every bag of cement you use. Mix the cement and water together.

2. Use the carpenter's level to make sure the 4-by-4's are square and plumb. Plumb means straight up and down.

3. Attach a 2-by-8 to the house with lag bolts.The 2-by-8 should be lateral with the house or up against the house. Frame the outside of the deck roof using the 2-by-8's.

4. Measure every 16 inches all the way across the deck roof with the tape measure. Place the 2-by-8 brackets against the house at these intervals.

5. Measure from the bracket to the front side of the deck where you are putting the roof. Do this all the way across. Make sure to put three nails in every 2-by-8.

6. Lay plywood that's 3/4-inch. Start laying the plywood from the top of the deck roof and work your way to the bottom. Offset the seams. Offsetting means to not run the boards straight. Slant the roof to promote drainage.

7. Roll out the tar paper. Staple it to the roof starting from the bottom of the deck roof using the staple gun. Roll out the roll roofing. Put some of the tar on the seams that you just laid down. Nail the roll roofing down with roofing nails and a hammer.

8. Repeat Step 7. This is to keep the deck roof from leaking. Make sure to put some tar on the edge of the deck roof.

Tips & Warnings

• Have someone help you or it will take longer.

• Wear safety glasses.

References

• House Remodeling Tips: Building a Deck Roof