How to Install a Flat Pan Carport

The Frame

• 1

  Apply caulk to the inside of one of the corner gutter fascia pieces. Slide one of the side pieces into place in the corner piece and secure with sheet metal screws. Caulk inside the other arm of the corner piece, slide another side piece in and screw to secure. Repeat for all four corner pieces until you’ve made a rectangle, which will be the frame for the carport roof.

• 2

  Lay the frame on top of the concrete carport pad; it should extend over either side. Measure the frame diagonally from corner to corner; adjust until it’s square. Slide one of the flat roof panels into place between the lips on one side of the frame, keeping the lock side of the panel facing the side fascia. Lower the other side of the panel into place between the lips and slide along so that the panel fits at one end of the frame. Screw into place with sheet metal screws.

• 3

  Repeat at the other end of the panel, but this time only insert two screws on each side; this is simply to help keep the panel completely square. Measure in 4 feet from the corners on the long sides and mark, both on the ground and the frame; this is where you will dig holes for the supports.

The Posts

• 4

  Dig holes with the post hole digger, ensuring each hole is 12 inches in diameter and at least 12 inches deep (consult local building codes to determine the depth needed in your area).

• 5

  Measure the posts and cut to size, allowing a 6-inch slope from one side of the carport to the other. Put the posts in position but do not cement in place.

• 6

  Turn over the carport roof frame and screw the column brackets in place in the places you’ve marked on the frame.

• 7

  Tilt the frame, and with the help of at least two other people, put two of the posts in the brackets. Lift the other side (have help for this and use ladders) and place the posts in the brackets. Brace all the posts, nailing in pieces of wood and angling them, checking that each post is level, straight and square, and adjusting as needed. Check the drop from one side of the carport to the other to confirm it’s 6 inches.

• 8

  Mix the cement and fill each of the holes. Leave for 24 hours to allow the cement to cure completely.

Finishing the Job

• 9

  Slide a second panel into place in the channels, working on a ladder. The female end will lock into place over the male end of the previous panel. Align the panels to each other and the fascia and screw into place. Repeat for the remaining roof panels.

• 10

  Attach the guttering to the outside of the fascia, using self-tapping screws. Then caulk on the underside and attach to the downspouts, caulking the seams together.

• 11

  Run the downspout along one of the posts where it can attach easily and won’t be unsightly.