How To Build A Freestanding Patio Cover

Follow our step-by-step guide to build your own freestanding patio cover.

Step 1. Gather The Proper Materials

• Start by preparing pressure-treated boards in these sizes: 4×4, 2×4, 2×6 and 2×10.
• Gather a hammer, shovel, socket set, circular saw, wheelbarrow, spade, screwdriver, power drill and jigsaw.
• Have some gravel, lag bolts, level, galvanized screws and some gravel just in case.

Step 2. Find A Location

• Measure the size of the area where you’d like to build the patio cover.
• Use either a rope or stakes to measure the area.
• Begin digging out holes for the posts.
• Make sure the depth of each hole is 24 inches with a width of 9 inches.

Step 3. Prepare Wooden Posts

• Take time to remove moisture since this material can be prone to deterioration.
• Incorporate some gravel into each hole for prevention purposes.
• The layer depth should be around 3 inches.
• Tamp it down afterward.
• Pour that same amount of gravel into the holes before tamping them down each time.

Step 4. Install The Posts

• Place the 4×4 posts into position.
• Use the 2×4 boards to keep the posts in place.
• Confirm all post levels before adding cement.
• Create a mixture of quick-dry cement, referencing the label directions.
• Pour the mixture around each post.
• Wait at least 24 hours to let the cement dry completely.

Step 5. Assemble The Beams

• Use the 2×10 boards as the beams.
• Each beam should be able to cover the distance from one post to another.
• Make sure you are careful while cutting the beams.
• Once you get the beam, drill holes through it and the core posts, allowing you to assemble them.
• Use your 3-inch lag bolts to connect these two parts.
• Confirm the levels of each beam before moving on to the next step.

Step 6. Structure The Roof

• Cut your 2×6 boards as needed.
• Do not cut the boards at identical length as the patio because they need to hang over the outdoor space a bit.
• Cut the boards longer than the patio.
• Arrange the boards to cross the joint beams, forming a perpendicular pattern.
• The boards must be evenly situated across the top of the patio.
• Use galvanized deck screws to keep the boards in place.

Step 7. Furnish The Freestanding Patio

• Cover the top with your preferred material.
• This could be anything from metal panels to lattice wood.
• Furnish the patio with decorations and furniture.
• Check the level one more time before completing this project.