How to Build a Roof Over My Existing Deck

Research suggests that 23% of new homes are being built with a deck. This is fantastic for those who enjoy outdoor living – but what happens when the weather takes a turn for the worse?

Your outdoor space should be a refuge – that’s why protecting your deck from the rain is so important.

If you’re asking ‘how to build a roof over my existing deck’, you’re in the right place. This article will explain how you can add a sturdy, reliable roof to your pre-existing decking area.

‘How to Build a Roof Over My Existing Deck?’ – It’s Simple

The key to constructing a new roof for your deck is ensuring structural integrity. If your deck is next to your home, you can do this by building primarily from the strongest pre-standing material available – the outer walls of your home.

As with much outdoor construction, the basis of your roof will be a post and beam design. 

Rafters can be used to safely connect these beams to the side of your home, rather than allowing them to stand free. This is a sure-fire way of building a roof that will stay put even in testing weather conditions.

The beams should always be rooted firmly in the ground to maximize the stability of the structure.

Never Attach Your Roof to Your Deck!

Your deck roof should never be attached solely to the pre-existing decking. This is because, though it may seem the natural way to add a roof, in reality, your deck was not built to serve as the foundation for a roof. It may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure of holding up a roof.

This can compromise the integrity of both your roof and your original deck, putting you and your loved ones in danger.

The science behind how to build a roof over a deck makes this rule very clear: the tables used to construct your custom deck take into account a dead load of 10psf. This is the amount of material then used to construct your deck – adding the weight of a roof construction negates any planning that went into building your deck safely.

When it comes to roof building, your covered deck will need to be supported by new posts that are sized according to local building codes. It may be possible to integrate pre-standing posts into the construction, but in most instances, this will not work. Be sure to consult a professional in roof construction so that you can be sure your new deck roof will be safe!

Transform Your Outdoor Space

Being able to use your deck area in whatever weather you want can make a huge positive difference in your life. Now that you know the answer to ‘how to build a roof over my existing deck’, you can seize the day come rain or shine.

If you’re looking to have a roof built on your existing deck, please be sure to contact us today.

We can help you change your decking space for the better. It won’t be long until you’re enjoying your outdoor space whenever you like, not whenever the weather allows.