How to Make an Inexpensive Porch Covering

Make a masking tape outline where you want the patio cover built. Measure in 6 in. from each edge at all four corners. This is where the posts for the patio will be installed. Set the post base connectors at these marks, making sure they are square with each other.

Drill holes into the patio using the masonry bit and drill. Use the holes in the connectors as guidelines. Attach the connectors to the patio with the expansion bolts.

Measure and cut the posts for the rear of the patio cover. Usually, this is the same height as the existing roof-line minus 6 in. Determine the height of the front posts. These will be shorter than the rear posts so that there is a slope to the roof. You need a slope with a 1-in. drop for every 12 in. of run. For instance, if your patio cover is 8 ft. from front to rear, the front will be 8 in. lower than the rear.

Attach brackets at the tops of each post for the 2-by-6-in. lumber with wood screws. Install the lumber into the brackets and secure with wood screws. The outside framing for your patio cover is now complete.

Install a joist hanger every 16 in. on center, so that the joists run parallel to the house. Install 2-by-6-in. lumber into the brackets with wood screws.

Cover the joists with OSB (oriented strand board) plywood. Do not worry about overhang at this point, as this is done with the metal roofing.

Place the first panel of metal roofing in one of the lower corners of the patio cover. Have the panel overhang the roof by 4 in. on the front and sides. Hammer into place using the nylon washer nails. These nails are set into the valleys of the panels and protect the roof from water leakage. Nails are set every 12 in.

Set the next panel so that it is even with the first. Overlap the edges by one valley vertically. Nail into place using the nylon washer screws. Continue adding panels until you finish the row.

Set a strip of tape sealant at the top of the installed row. Set another panel in place, with the bottom edge covering the tape. Press firmly into place. Attach with the nails. Add rows of panels until the roof is finished.