A Different Twist to Constructing a Plastic Panel Patio Roof

by Joan Hurst

$200.00

3 Days

Medium

We wanted to install a patio roof over a portion of our chicken run, but we didn't want to have to deal with working on a ladder for installation and repair, as the terrain is varied and at the ages of 68 and 66, the easier the task the better it is for us.

Hinged Main Building Support

We used two rough cut 2 x 4's from the saw mill. They are true 2 x 4's, beefy and strong. Four heavy duty outdoor hinges were attached to the boards, allowing the full length board (the one that will be the back of the roof frame) to tilt to an upright position for easier installation and repair.

Installing the Frames

In order for the roof to pivot on the hinges, yet stay in place, an outer frame had to be made. A 1/4" gap was left on the sides and front to allow for swelling and shrinking during the seasons. You may want to use a larger or smaller gap. Keep in mind that additional layers of paint are going to make it tighter as time goes on.

Roof in Place - Uprights Installed

We didn't install the uprights until we had the roof in place and had established the pitch that we wanted. The ground slopes in two directions here, and we wanted to keep the roof as level as possible, so we felt this was the best way to proceed. At least for us.

Installation of Corrugated Panels

Unlike the conventional installation, we installed 1.5" x 2" battens on top of the studs at 12" intervals. We felt this would give more support. It should also allow air to flow through the main frame, stopping or at least hindering the accumulation of moisture, reducing the risk of rot. Attaching the panels in this position allows us to do it while standing on the ground. A 6' step ladder is all that is needed to fasten the upper portion.

Roof Placement

Here the roof is ready to be raised and pinned in place. Taking into consideration that this roof is surrounded by trees, the fact that it can be easily lowered also makes pine needle and leaves easier to remove. For cleaning, all that is needed is a long handled brush and a power washer or hose if you want to REALLY clean it.

Pinned and Secure

I think the picture says it all. We might put another pin on each side half way between the wall and the current pin. The roof frame is made with standard store bought 2 x 4's, while the supporting frame is constructed with rough cut 2 x 4's. If you don't know the difference. Rough cut wood is full size. It hasn't been planed and measures a true 2" x 4". A store bought board measures 1.5" x 3.5". We prefer to use rough cut for the supporting structure because it is beefier and actually cheaper buying it from the saw mill rather than a home building supply outlet.

It was a trial run for us. I've helped make other patio roofs over the years using the conventional instructions. When hubby came up with this idea it made a lot of sense to me and I gave him the thumbs up on it. We've raised and lowered the roof a half a dozen times now, and there's no problem. It is heavy, so we always have a ladder handy or saw horses to rest it on at the 1/2 way position, as age restrictions require that I take a break and adjust my stance and grip at that point. A light sawhorse or 2' step ladder will support it for the few necessary seconds and can easily be kicked away. When doing these projects we also think of our safety and the strain we are going to be putting on our bodies. Tasks get a little bit harder as time goes on.

I hope you've found this helpful. Thanks for stopping to take a look!

Enjoy the day!

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5 comments

Deborah on Oct 07, 2014
Very unique. I could use this brillant idea for my Mobile Home. Keep the good ideas coming.

1 Reply
- Joan Hurst on Oct 07, 2014
  @Deborah Thanks! That's why I passed it on! You could probably use the same principle with aluminum. I probably should have patented it. LOL
  
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M.wayne on Jul 18, 2019

Not really a question but a helpful way to raise and lower roof , I will use crank that goes on boat trailer to pull your boat onto trailer but I'll add them to each side post at the top to lower and raise the roof panel..

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