DIY PVC Roof

PVC pipe is strong and waterproof and is an inexpensive material.

PVC pipe is a strong and versatile material. It is generally used in plumbing to carry water to and from houses. PVC pipe can also be used to build just about anything, even a roof. A properly constructed PVC roof is strong enough to withstand all but the worst weather. It is built so that rainwater will be channeled from the peak straight into the gutter system surrounding the house. It is inexpensive and will last for years, and a novice can install it in only a few days.

Things You'll Need

• Treated boards (2 inches by 4 inches by 8 feet)
• Hammer
• 16d nails
• PVC pipes (3 inches by 20 feet)
• Saw with fine-tooth blade

Instructions

1. Attach treated boards to the existing roof with 16d nails. Place the boards in lines parallel to the peak that span the entire width of the roof. Place the first line of boards on the peak and place another line every 4 feet down the roof.

2. Cut each piece of PVC in half lengthwise with your saw. Hold the PVC pipe tightly while you are cutting. Take your time and cut slowly to prevent injury to yourself. Have your assistant hold one end of the pipe while you cut for added stability. Trim each piece so that it will lay on the roof with one end at the peak and the other end over the top of the gutter.

3. Lay the pieces of half pipes onto the roof perpendicular to the boards. Leave a 1/4-inch space between each pipe and the ones next to it. Flip each half pipe so that the cut edges are pointing upward. Drill through the half pipes on your roof at every point where the pipes meet the boards. Drive a 3-inch screw through each hole and into the boards to fasten the half pipes in place.

4. Lay pieces of half pipe on top of the first layer. Place these pieces rounded side up with cut edges straddling the gaps between the pipes in the first layer. Drill through each pipe where it crosses the boards. Drive a 6-inch galvanized screw through each hole, through the gap between the pipes on the first layer and into the wood on the roof.

5. Cover both sides of the roof. Place the 10-inch half pipe along the peak so that it covers the top ends of the pipes where they meet at the peak. Attach the 10-inch pipe to the board on the peak with 6-inch screws. Cover all of the screws visible on the roof with caulk.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear work gloves and safety glasses when using hand and power tools.

References

• Fine Home Building; A Primer on PVC Pipe; Ed Cunha; 2004