How to Frame an Awning Over a Door

Measure the width of the door frame with a tape measure and add 12 inches to the measurement. This will be the length of the frame. The frame of the awning needs to extend beyond the edges of the door frame to offer the optimal amount of protection.

Cut four 2-by-4 wooden boards the same length as the measurement, using a saw. Cut four more 2-by-4 boards 3 feet in length. Sand any rough edges with sandpaper.

Draw a half-circle on a 1-inch-thick sheet of plywood. The length of the flat side of the half-circle measures 6 feet and the top of the arch measures 3 feet from the center of the half-circle. Cut this piece out with a reciprocal saw. Cut the half-circle in half to form two identical quarter-circles with 3-foot flat sides.

Build two identical rectangle frame pieces using the 2-by-4 boards. Fasten the boards together using wood screws and an electric screwdriver. The end pieces of the rectangles need to measure 3 feet. Attach the quarter-circles to the 3-foot ends of the rectangles. Both rectangle frames will form an L-shape when connected to the rectangles.

Paint or stain the framework to protect it from the outside elements. Cover the framework with canvas fabric or wooden slates. When mounting the awning, place one rectangle against the wall above the doorway and point the arch of the quarter-circles upward.