Engineered & Premade Porch Roof Trusses
If you are building a porch, you may want to consider using engineered roof trusses. These preassembled trusses can be specially designed and ordered for your porch project. To get a quote, you can contact your local lumber yard. They will usually need a plan for the deck or room the roof will be covering. You need to specify the pitch and if you want scissor trusses for a vaulted ceiling or common trusses, and if you need a gable end truss. Roof trusses are generally designed to be installed 16” on center. The advantage is that you will save time in building the roof and can ensure the roof is properly designed. The disadvantage is that trusses are heavy to lift and more expensive than hand framing the rafters yourself. Roof trusses are heavy, large and awkward to carry especially from the tops of ladders. A professional deck crew can save some time and money by installing engineered trusses, but it is hard work. Keep in mind that many house roof trusses are installed with the help of an overhead crane.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Planning and installing a DIY brick or stone paver patio is a big project. Learn how to build a paver patio from start to finish here.
How to Install & Build a Porch Roof
It's important to know the propper matierials neded to build a porch roof to prevent water damage. Read more about building a porch roof at Decks.com.
How To Build A Roof Cricket or Saddle
Building and framing a shed roof is not as challenging as you might think. Discover the step-by-step process for how to build a shed roof at Decks.com.
How to Install Decking Over Existing Concrete Slab, Patio, or Porch
Discover the best techniques to build a deck over concrete, ensuring proper drainage and stability, while creating a beautiful outdoor space.
6 Best Alternatives to Wooden Decking
While wood decking was previously considered the standard material for building a deck, that’s changed. Homeowners have been exploring and embracing different types of materials, and the availability of alternative decking materials has grown significantly.
Building an Outdoor Space with James DeSantis
Composite decking can not be placed directly on concrete. But a substructure can solve for this. Explore this deck project with James DeSantis
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
9 Conservatory Design Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living
Conservatories are a great way to ensure that you (and your plants) can soak up the sun all year round. Get inspired with conservatory design ideas.
Parts of a Porch
Porches, just like decks, have a lot of different & important parts. Learn more about the anatomy of a standard porch with this article from Decks.com.
How To Finish Your Porch
Add some finishing touches to give your porch a bit of style. Learn about covering your porch ceiling, railings, soffits, fascia and trim at Decks.com.
What to Consider When Building A Wrap-Around Deck
Looking to add a wrap-around deck to your home but unsure of what the process involves? Check out this guide to learn more about top considerations when building a wrap-around deck.
Hidden Deck Fastening: 3 Ways to Fasten Your Composite Deck Boards
Hidden deck fasteners are the ideal option for DIY builders looking to hide their hardware, without sacrificing the stability of their deck. From nearly invisible deck plugs to color-matched deck screws, knowing how to choose and install these hidden fasteners is an easy way to level-up your deck project.
Introduction to Decking
Spacing between deck boards provides several critical functions, such as drainage & drying. Learn how to space and stagger deck boards at Decks.com.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights