How to Build Your Own Fixed Awning for a Deck

Mounting Site

• The first decision to make when you plan to build a fixed awning over your deck is where it will mount. Some fixed awnings mount directly to a home's exterior wall. These awnings may not require vertical supports, which leaves the deck open. Other awnings mount to existing deck posts, which can be the same posts that serve as structural corner posts for a deck's railing. Another option is an awning that mounts to a frame installed directly into the ground outside the deck rim.

Awning Material

• Fixed awnings make use of flexible materials that are lightweight and provide moderate protection from the elements. If you live in a dry climate, where rain is uncommon in the summer, a simple muslin or nylon fabric awning will suffice. If you expect the awning to block both sun and rain, you'll need to select a synthetic material that can shed water without absorbing it, which would make it heavy or saturated. Choose a material through which you can sew loops or buy an awning cover with metal grommets for easy assembly.

Frame Construction

• A fixed awning's frame provides rigid support for the flexible cover. It also provides strength at the mounting points and establishes the placement of the awning. A homemade frame can consist of plastic piping, lumber or light metal tubing. In each case, use corner joints to shape the frame so that it covers the area you want protected. Attach metal brackets to secure the frame to your home or the deck itself.

Seasonal Removal

• One of the benefits of a fixed awning is the fact that it remains in place throughout the season you use your deck. However, this doesn't mean that you need to leave the awning in place permanently. Depending on your climate, you can remove the awning fabric and, in some cases, parts of the frame to protect them from harsh weather. If a storm or high winds are in the forecast, remove the awning fabric to prevent it from tearing or pulling on the frame enough force to cause damage to the frame, deck or wall of your home.