I Want to Make My Own Awning

Measure the area you want to cover. Include the distance between your home and the end of the covered area.

Consider the awning style you want. Awnings over entryways and windows generally have slanted covers. Larger awnings, like those that cover decks, can also have a pyramid shape. Weather also plays a key role when choosing an awning. If you live in an area with a mild climate year round, an awning with a design load of 10 pounds per square foot may be sufficient. However, if you live at a high elevation that receives a lot of snowfall, you may need an awning with a design load of 40 pounds per square foot.

Finalize the details regarding the design specifications. Decide if you want the awning’s support structures made of wood, aluminum or PVC pipe. When considering the awning materials, you also need to decide if you want a cover you can remove. Many awnings are made from weatherproof fabric with a 15-year lifespan and come in a variety of colors. Permanent awnings are usually made of aluminum, fiberglass or have shingles that match the roof of the home.

Determine the best way to attach the awning to your home. You can attach an awning to an outside wall of your home, the eaves of the roof or a rooftop ledger. Alternatively, you can set up an awning on a self-supporting, freestanding structure.

Find out if you need a permit to build or attach an awning to your home. You can learn this information from the city planner in your town. When inquiring about the awning, find out if there's a required or recommended live load or snow load, and if there's a specific wind factor you need to take into consideration. For example, your city may only let you have an awning if it can withstand wind speeds of 25 miles per hour or more. If you're considering using an awning kit, ensure the kit’s product-engineering specifications meet the city’s code requirements.

Gather your tools. When making your own awning, you'll need a ladder, drill, drill bits, hacksaw, measuring tape and a carpenter’s pencil. Your toolkit should also include tin snips, a hammer, caulking gun, caulk, SEA socket set, crescent wrench, level and T-square.