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How to Make a Simple Wooden Awning

Adding a simple awning offers protection from sun and wind for a window or small patio area. An awning might be desirable for several reasons. The piece adds decoration for the exterior of a home while blocking out unwanted sunlight on the interior. Premade awnings made of aluminum or fabric are available from home improvement outlets but might not match the decor of the house. Hiring a professional can be costly. A simple wood awning can be a do-it-yourself project for even a beginner.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Framing square
  • 1-by-4-inch boards
  • Circular saw
  • Drill
  • L brackets
  • 45 degree brackets
  • Hammer
  • 2-inch general purpose nails
  • 2-by-2-inch boards
  • 220-grit sandpaper
  • Hand or orbital sander
  • Paint roller
  • Paint or varnish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the width of the area to be covered and add two inches. Use a framing square to determine a 45 degree angle from the top edge of the area. Measure along the angle outward and downward to the desired point to which the awning should reach. This is the length for the project.

    • 2

      Create the frame for the wood awning. Cut two 1-by-4-inch boards to the width and two to the length. Lay out the frame on a flat surface so the box will be 4 inches high. Connect the interior corners using L brackets to complete the frame.

    • 3

      Cover the top of the frame with 1-by-4-inch boards. Use a circular saw to cut the boards to the width of the frame. Carefully attach each board to the frame using 2-inch nails. Place the boards flush to each other, or leave small spaces between to allow a small amount of light through.

    • 4

      Attach the awning to the intended area. Use 45 degree angle brackets to attach to the solid surface of the house. Attach the flat side of the bracket against the wall and attach using the bracket screws. Attach the angled side to the top of the awning with the provided screws. This will hang the awning at a 45 degree angle. Have a helper hold the awning in place during this process.

    • 5

      Make the supports. Measure from the outer edge of the now hanging awning straight to the wall. Cut two 2-by-2-inch boards to this length. Use 220-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges and corners for a more finished look. Attach to the interior edge of the awning using 45 degree brackets. Screw the flat side of the bracket to the cut and smoothed 2-by-2. Press to the inside bottom edge of the awning frame and attach the other side of the bracket. Use small L brackets to attach the opposite end to the wall using the same process.

    • 6

      Paint or varnish the awning to match the home. Use a paint roller for a smooth application.