Install The Intersected Beams
On top of the 8×2 rafter and aligned above each of the original beams, install the intersected beams of equivalent size in a calculated straight line one after the other in a pecking order. If they are 6×6, then install 6×6 beams in a standing position.
All new beams must be of exact height so that the lowest part of the roof will have an even surface to sit on.
Plan Your Rooftop Deck Design
You may already have some ideas on how to utilize your rooftop deck space. Are you going to have plantings? An overhead element like a pergola? Seating areas? Do you need access to drains or utilities? Professional designers can help you plan wisely for your unique space. Enlisting experienced professionals can save you years of grief and add many years of enjoyment. Your call.
Need some rooftop deck design inspiration?
Building A Roof Over A Deck Or Patio
Start here if you want to build a roof over a patio or deck. We will walk you through the entire process, from siting the patio roof to raising posts, attaching beams, and installing the roof.
If local codes allow setting the overhead directly on an existing slab but the concrete is not thick enough to support the overheads weight, you will have to pour new footings around the slabs perimeter or break out sections and pour deeper footings. For information on installing a new patio, see Pouring a Concrete Slab.
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Install Ledger Board To Support The Rafters
Now that you have your rafters in place, its time to install the ledger board. This will serve as a support beam for all of the weight on your roof, so make sure they are nice and sturdy.
Youll want to cut one end of them at a 45-degree angle, so when you drill through them into the post connectors, they will stay in place. Now, youll be able to put the rest of your rafters on top of these ledgers and secure them with screws or nails into place.
Its Time To Install The Roofing Material
Now that the roof framing is done, you can move on to installing the actual roofing. Your specific instructions for this stage will vary depending on:
- The material you choose to use
- How steep your angle is and,
- Whether or not there are overhangs involved.
Regardless of the specifics, though, there are a few general rules to follow for this stage.
Start by removing any footings that will be covered up. Then youll need to install some waterproofing before installing your actual roof material.
Next, lay down felt paper to protect the roofing material from moisture.
Make sure to keep your work area well ventilated, especially if youre working with wood shakes or shingles both of which are flammable materials.
Finally, finish up by nailing down any loose edges and replacing footings that were removed earlier.
Read Also: Extending Roof Overhang
Install Gutters And Downspouts
If you want to install gutters for your under deck ceiling, plan ahead and leave space for them. You may have to get creative to come up with an attachment method, depending on how your deck is built. Since the in-stock 12-ft. panels didn’t quite reach the beams on Rune’s deck, he nailed vertical 2x4s to every other joist to provide an attachment point for the gutters. Then he screwed the gutter hangers to the 2x4s. Slope the gutters toward the downspout for drainage.
Adding A Roof Over A Deck
Building a roof over a deck turns this area into the best possible outdoor living space. There are many advantages to a roof over your deck, such as:
- It provides shade and keeps your family dry during wet weather.
- It adds to the aesthetic appeal of the space.
- Combined with screened sides, it keeps the bugs away while you relax outside.
- It boosts curb appeal and property value.
- It increases the square footage of your home with a three-season living room.
The best time to build a roof over your deck is during the construction of the deck itself. If you have an existing deck, its possible to add a roof to it by installing additional supports. Our experts can take care of all this and more. Discuss the following issues with your professional handyman during the deck roof design process.
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Does A Covered Porch Add Value
Yes, A Porch Addition Will Add Monetary Value To Your Home Getting right to the point, the addition of ANY professionally designed and built outdoor living space will add monetary value to your home. A covered porch, screened porch or 3-season porch will add significant liveable square footage to your property.
How To Build A Roof Over A Deck Attached To A House
This article covers building a roof over a deck attached to a house, but several plans and designs are available. Remember that these instructions may vary depending on your deck plan and roofing type.
The time has finally come to cover that deck, but before we get into the nitty-gritty of the detail, we first need the right tools and materials.
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Misc Notes & Tidbits:
- First a word of WARNING this product is not designed for fire pits & should be kept 4 away from them
- For each 100 SF installed it basically saves 50 auto tires & 1500 plastic containers from going into the landfill
- The scratch resistance & strength of these is quite simply outstanding, especially compared to normal products
- These can be cut with jig-saws, circular saws, and chop saws do not force the blade & let it do its job or you risk gumming up your blade
- If you are interested in learning more you can contact AZEK for a list of dealers & installers
Can I Build A Deck On My Rooftop
Can your roof structure support the additional weight? A building code official may be able to help you here. Or not. At a minimum, they will likely know what the loading requirements are in your area. You may also need a master builder or structural engineer to determine the loading capacity of your roof. They can determine whether your existing roof can support the extra weight of a deck. Never build a rooftop deck without checking this first.
There is plenty more design inspiration and information where this came from. Grab your FREE download of the “Rooftop Deck Design Ideas Project Portfolio” and start designing your dream rooftop deck.
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Should I Cover My Deck In The Winter
Its important to cover your deck in the winter to protect it from harsh winter weather. You can choose between a permanent roof and a temporary tarp, but you may want to build a roof to invest in the long-term. If youre wondering how to put a roof over an existing deck, get in touch with your local roofing experts. They can either give you advice or complete the job for you.
First Step: Is A Rooftop Deck Allowed In Your Area
Before getting started, find out if a rooftop deck is allowed in your area. Do you have local zoning prohibiting a rooftop deck? Are there homeowner association restrictions in your area? Find out. If not, a great place to start is to check with your local building department. Building code officials are a wealth of information. They know the local building codes and can save you money in the long run.
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How To Waterproof A Plywood Deck Roof Or Balcony
This Spring, I was busy, busy building a big playhouse for my kids. I designed it to look like a mini version of our barn.
But, the playhouse has a recessed upper deck on one half of the roof. This post is all about how to waterproof a plywood deck, roof or balcony with Liquid Rubber Deck Coating.
Spoiler Alert, I love this stuff!
When my Dad and I framed out that deck, we sloped it a little for drainage. That was easy enough to do since one side of the deck is open.
But, some people need to waterproof a roof top deck or other surface without an open side for drainage. In that case, you will need to install some sort of drain to get the standing water off of the deck.
UNLESS, youre actually trying to trap water. I know some people use this stuff to waterproof the inside of wooden planters.
Thats a clever way to keep water in your soil while extending the life of that wood.
Some links on this post are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Anyway, lets get to those steps for how to waterproof a plywood deck, roof or balcony with Liquid Rubber Deck Coating.
What About Composite Decking Material
Synthetic decking options range from wood composites, to plastic capped wood composites, to cellular PVC. Most are available in a variety of colors. Some may perform well in this harsh area. Most do not. Most of the synthetics heat up and expand and contract making them uncomfortable to walk on. If you are considering this option, please do your homework first.
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Research Guidelines & Limitations
Depending on the area in which you live, you may realize there are guidelines and limitations regarding rooftop decks or additions. Two of the groups you will need to contact are your homeowners association or neighborhood board and your local building department.
If you have a homeowners association or neighborhood board, you will likely have to submit your rooftop deck design for approval. This may even include reaching out to your neighbors to inform them of your intent to build a deck on the roof.
Whats The Finest Materials For A Flat Roof
Excessive-Performing Industrial Roofing Materials Varieties
- PVC Roofing. For a lot of initiatives, PVC roofing is our most well-liked alternative as one of the best flat roof materials on the market.
- Steel Roofing. A business standing seam steel roof is the perfect alternative for a constructing with a roof slope higher than 2 inches.
- TPO.
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Why A Deck Roof
- A roof over a deck or patio adds a huge value to the usefulness of your new deck or patio, instantly turning it into an outdoor living area
- Much cooler under the roof than in the open, increasing the enjoyment of your deck ten fold.
- Install curtains under the header of the roof for privacy, shade, or as a wind breaker, all reasons that will increase the value of your deck or patio.
- Lights installed in the ceiling creating area lighting that allows the playing of games, cards, puzzles, reading or casual conversation well into the evening.
- Screen in the sides for a comfortable outdoor area without those annoying, pesky bugs. Sit outside well into the evening without a single bug bite.
- Install a gas or wood burning fireplace to increase the ambiance and allowing a romantic evening area that continues well into the colder months.
- Install that flat screen TV to enjoy your football or baseball game.
How Do I Put A Porch Roof On My Roof
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The Weight Factor & Specs:
- The regular paver & grid measures 2.38 in height, covers 1.78 SF & weighs in at 16 pounds.
- Coverage basically triples from 2.4 SF to 7.1 SF & the weight per SF is almost a third
- The permeable unit has the exact same measurements as above but weighs in at 14.6 pounds or 8.2# per SF
- The resurfacing unit covers the same amount of ground, but is only 1.75 tall & weighs in at 6.4 pounds or just under 4#s per SF
Can My Roof Support A Deck Essential Guide
The allure of ending a summer evening on a private, rooftop deck is enough to motivate any homeowner to consider this addition to their home. However, adding a roof to your deck is a much more complex situation that building a patio in your yard. With so many aspects of safety to consider, many homeowners are left wondering if their dream could ever turn into a reality.
Can my roof support a deck? If your roof deck is in optimal condition and can safely support at least 55 pounds of weight per square foot, your roof may be able to support a deck! The final decision, however, is much more complex and requires the advice and oversight of a professional contractor.
Although you will need to hire a contractor to design and build a deck on the roof of your home, there are a few things you can determine ahead of time as you decide whether a rooftop deck is a right decision for you. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about building a deck on the roof of your home.
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Attach Rafters To The Fascia Of The Main Roof
Now that is done, the next thing to do is to have 6×2 rafters the number of the vertical beams installed.
These rafters will be attached to the fascia of the main roof, running down and laying on each of the beams, which will now be extending straight from the ground to the lowest part of the roof, which is the end of the deck.
How To Build A Roof Over A Deck Instructions How To Build A Roof Over The Porch
Do you have a deck or patio that needs covering? Did you asked yourself how to build a roof over a deck? While some people decide to hire professional roofers to do the job, this sort of thing might be easier than you think to get done yourself. You should never bite off more than you can chew, but if youve got the right skills and tools for the job, it could be a lot more easy and satisfying to simply get things done yourself.
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How To Build Roof Over Deck
A deck can transform your house, add extra living space outside, and boost the overall value of your home. The downside is that a deck isnt a permanent living space it is weather-dependent. Recently Ive seen some neighbors try to solve this problem with a roof. Ive considered it myself, but I wasnt sure exactly how to build a roof over a deck.
To build a roof over a deck, you need to connect the new roof framing to the existing home. The easiest way is to use posts and beam construction with rafters connecting the beam to the home. Other ways involve removing a portion of the existing roof, adding trusses, and other framing options.
In this article well cover all your options when it comes to adding a roof to your deck. While a deck roof entirely depends on how your current deck sits with your house, well also give a general overview of DIY deck room construction.
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Roof Decks Are Ideal For Enjoying Cool Evenings But Adding One Wont Be A Breeze
Private roof decks, the envy of the neighborhood when the weather is nice, are a trendy accessory in newly built townhouses in town-center-style communities in the suburbs. Adding a roof deck to an existing home is a bit trickier. It might be tempting to just slide open a tall window and shimmy out onto a flat roof, but to be safe and to have a truly functional roof deck, youll need to spend time and money.
Most roofs werent designed to have people walk on them, much less put furniture on them and entertain up there, said Ethan Landis, co-owner of Landis Architects/Builders in the District. Adding a roof deck is like creating a great outdoor room, which is especially nice if theres no good backyard. But you have to evaluate the condition of the existing roof first.
Hiring a designer with experience adding roof decks to other homes in your neighborhood can make the project easier and result in a deck thats not only attractive but also structurally sound and compliant with zoning and fire codes.
Each roof deck project is one of a kind, Landis said. They all have logistical challenges, and many of the ones weve built are on homes in a historical neighborhood, which means they need to be invisible from the street.
Other issues include skylights, chimneys and air conditioners that might need to be moved or built around.
The trick to adding a roof deck to your home
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Type Of Roof Design And Cost Of Materials
This factor has a wide range of variables. A deck can be covered with a pavilion, a more solid weather protection. Or it can be covered with a pergola allowing sun and rain while offering cover with a retractable canopy.
The most popular types of pavilion roofs are flat, gable, hip, and skillion .
A flat roof is an easier construction project than the gable and hip roofs, saving also in construction materials. The roof is slightly pitched for water runoff.
However, water collection can still be a problem. The roof must be waterproof and is not really recommended for heavy rain or snow climates.
A gable roof is two equal roof panels pitched at an identical angle. The gable roof itself is easy to build and generally less expensive than more complex roof designs. Water easily flows off.
In high wind locations, the frames need sturdy support and roof braces. Excessive roof overhang is also a factor as very high winds can lift off the roof. High winds can also blow off the roofing materials, such as shingles.
A hip roof is sloped on four sides. While not absolutely indestructible, this roof is more durable than a gable roof, especially in a high wind location.
The hip roof also allows rain and snow to slide off. However, hip roofs are more complex in design and, thus, more expensive to build in materials and labor.
This roof is easier to build and uses fewer construction materials. This pitched roof is a good choice in high rain and snow locations.
