How To Build A Roof Cricket or Saddle
In some situations while building a porch roof, you may need to tie the house roof and porch roof together. This will require cutting the house roof back to the bearing wall. You will need to install a gable wall on top of the house wall to support the weight of the ridge beam. Line the gable studs on top of the house studs and leave room for a sheathing layer. Once the ridge beam is solidly supported, it can continue to where it intersects on the house roof surface. This beam will provide the backbone for the cricket or saddle. 2x8 sleepers should be nailed to the roof surface to pick up the ends of the rafters. You will need to use compound miter cuts for the cricket rafters. The cricket or saddle basically rests on top of the house roof to visually extend the porch roof gracefully into the house roof. Be sure to waterproof the intersection of the roofs using valleys and flashing.
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.
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.
Engineered & Premade Porch Roof Trusses
Using engineered porch roof trusses can take a lot of the hassle out of building your porch roof. Learn more about premade porch roof trusses at Decks.com!
Anatomy of a Deck
A comprehensive guide to help you learn the names and understand the functions of every part of your deck.
Best Hidden Fasteners for Decking
Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.
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.
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.
How to Screen in a Porch, Patio or Deck
Screening in your porch will allow your to enjoy your outdoor space year-round. Learn how to install a screen porch and discover screen porch inspiration 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.
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
How to Install and Fasten Deck Fascia
Installing deck fascia can be easy if you have the proper tools, fasteners, and practical information that you’ll find right here.
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