How to Install a Foam-Filled Patio Cover

Preparation

• 1

  Measure the area of the patio you're covering, using a tape measure. Measure the width, depth and height of the area. Take height measurements from the patio floor to the edge of the closest roof, or use a height recommended by the manufacturer of the patio cover.

• 2

  Mark the area on the roof or wall where you intend on installing the patio cover header, using a marker. The header holds the roof panels in place.

• 3

  Measure and mark the area for the posts. The posts sit in a straight row opposite the header. A second header goes on top of the posts and holds the other end of the roof panels in place.

• 4

  Determine the height of the posts for the patio cover using the depth and height measurements and the required slope of the patio cover. For instance, a patio cover roof may require a slope of ½ inch for every vertical foot. If you measure a patio depth of 10 feet, the posts must stand at least 5 inches shorter -- ½ inch for every foot -- than the roof. Find minimum slope requirements in the installation manual.

• 5

  Measure the posts to the required height. Mark the posts and cut them to size, using a power saw.

• 6

  Assemble the posts, as instructed by the installation manual. Attach framing mechanisms, usually fork-shaped plastic molds designed to hold the roof of the patio cover up -- to the top of the posts, using a drill and recommended bolts or screws.

• 7

  Pre-drill holes in the header, using spacing requirements provided by the installation manual.

• 8

  Set up ladders on either side of the patio, against the wall or roof where you're attaching the patio cover.

Installation

• 9

  Climb a ladder to a height adequate to provide easy access to the area marked on the wall or roof for header installation. Your assistant should climb the other ladder, with each of you holding one end of the header.

• 10

  Install the header by drilling screws or bolts through each pre-drilled hole in the header. Use bolts or screws recommended by the installation manual or provided by the manufacturer. Check straightness of the header with a level before and after drilling each screw, to ensure a flat, even patio cover.

• 11

  Place the post brackets provided by the manufacturer on the areas marked for post installation. Drill holes, using a drill and masonry drill bit, through the bolt holes in the bracket and into the patio surface.

• 12

  Drill a bolt, as provided or recommended by the installation manual, through the bolt hole of each bracket and into the pre-drilled holes.

• 13

  Slide the posts over brackets by placing the hollow section on the bottom of the post over the bracket. Attach the posts to the brackets by drilling bolts through each post and into the corresponding bracket.

• 14

  Set up the ladders on either side of the end posts. Attach the second header to the top of the posts. The specifics of this step depend on the brand of patio cover you have, though the header usually slides into the framing mechanisms at the top of the posts and attaches using screws. Refer to the installation manual for exact instructions.

• 15

  Install the first roof panel. Roofing panels slide into headers, starting with the header placed against the wall. Use a level to check the flatness of the panel and a square to check that it fits at exact right angles to both headers -- before attaching it to each header, using a drill and recommended screws.

• 16

  Install the second roofing panel by sliding it into the header, fitting the seam into that of the first panel. Each manufacturer designs seams slightly differently, though usually the seam of the second panel slides underneath the seam of the first panel.

• 17

  Check flatness and angles of the second panel using a level and square before attaching it to both headers and the first panel, using a drill and the recommended screws.

• 18

  Continue installing panels until you've covered the entire surface of the patio cover.

Finishing

• 19

  Slide the gutter onto the outside edge of the header installed above the posts. The gutter should contain hook-like rims on the top and bottom that fit over the header and allow you to slide on the gutter.

• 20

  Attach the gutter to the patio using screws and your drill. Follow screw placement instructions provided by the installation manual.

• 21

  Attach fascia to both sides of the patio cover roof. Fascia consists of framing material that fits over the side of each end panel to seal off the roof. Fascia attaches in the same manner as the gutter.

• 22

  Install any ornamental pieces included in the DIY patio package. Installing ornamental pieces consists of placing them over the patio cover in the necessary position and drilling them into place. Follow the installation manual's instructions.

• 23

  Install weatherproof caulk along the seams of roof panels and the seam of the header and roof.