How to Build a Roof Over a Porch

Mark on the ground the spots where the support posts will stand. Dig a hole 18 inches deep and 12 inches across for each of the support posts and fill with concrete. Sink the long bolts that came with the post base connectors into the center of the concrete and make sure that they stand up plum. Allow the concrete to dry overnight.

Mount the post base connector bracket to the bolt that you sunk in the concrete. Measure and cut the support posts to the planned height of your roof. Determine the length of the posts that will be on the side that you wish rain to run off according to your desired roof slope. Cut these posts accordingly shorter than the others. Set the support posts into the connector and fasten securely using nuts and bolts. Plumb the posts and brace to hold them in place.

Build the frame for the patio cover. Cut four pieces of 2x8 lumber, two each to the planned length of the sides of your patio, plus 8 inches. Attach them together in a rectangle with heavy-duty stainless-steel screws at the ends. Cut 2x4s to the inside length of the frame, space them 18 inches apart on center inside the frame and nail.

Get at least 4 others to help you with step ladders and raise the frame. Place around the outside of the support posts. Nail each to the posts as a temporary hold and brace further with extra lumber while you finish the final fastening of the frame to the posts. Drill holes through the frame and posts. Insert heavy-duty bolts through the holes and fasten securely with lock washers and nuts. Remove the temporary bracing.

Nail 5/8-inch plywood to the top of the roof frame to serve as roof decking. Cover the decking with roofing felt and fasten with roofing tacks. Attach a drip edge and shingle the roof. Install rain gutters as desired.

Stain, paint, or waterproof the lumber to your preference and your roof is finished