Build a Louvered Patio Roof
Louvered patio roofs are popular in much of the country. They allow homes to have a shaded place to sit and relax without being in the hot sun. So building one would a be a great project that will reap with benefits for years to come. So here is how to build a professional grade louvered patio roof.
Safety Precautions: When using the ladder, be careful not lean off on the side or place anything heavy on it. Also, make sure that you do not place it on sloping ground or holes.
Materials & Tools Needed:
- Wooden beams
- Louvers
- Post
- Rafters
- Braces
- Machine bolts
- Washers
- Deck screws
- Nuts
- Measuring tape
- Hammer
- Nails
- Drill
- Carpenters level
- Cross balance
- Saw
Step 1 - Prepare Deck
Start by preparing your deck for the post. If you are going to insert the post into the ground, then begin by preparing the ground instead of the deck. Make sure that either the deck or ground does not have wires or pipe underneath them. Otherwise you may have problems with digging or puncture a pipe. So double check before digging. It is also a good idea to make sure no lawn furniture or other items that can gets in the way. So clean the perimeter around where you will place the posts in.
Step 2 - Attach Post
Use the drill to cut holes wide enough for the post. Do not drill all the way through the deck. Using the crossbeam and carpenters level to make sure that they are placed even and straight. If the posts are too tall, cut them to reach the desired height. Eight feet from ground up, is a good height to reach for. Once they are in the ground or deck and stable, you can remove the crossbars and level.
Step 3 - Install Beams
Install 2 beams in the front and back of the post, by drilling 1/2 inch holes into the beams and rails. Then use machine bolts to hold them up on the posts. Do this with all the post you have installed. They will help hold up the patio roof.
Step 4 - Installing Braces
Using the left over wood, cut them into 4 inch length with 45 degree angles on the end so you can attach them between the beams and post. Secure them on with machine bolts, washer and nut. They will help to reinforce the frame and roof.
Step 5 - Installing the Rafters
Place the rafters on top of the post and nail them down. You can also use screws, but you will need to drill the holes before you put them up on the post. You may wish to toenail them in as well as regular nailing. You will also need to drill in the holes where you wish to install the louvers, before putting installing them onto the rafters.
Step 6 - Putting in the Louvers
Place the louvers onto the rafters and insert the screws into the pre-drilled holes. If you do not wish to have that much shade, you should leave 2 to 3 inches between each louver. If you want less light and more shade, place more louvers and leave very little to no space between each one. How many you wish to use really is up to you and your desires for the patio roof.
