How to Install & Build a Porch Roof
A porch roof is essentially composed of layers of specialized materials that are designed to last for many years of natural exposure. Above the structural trusses or rafters, your roof will be covered in 3/8” or 1/2” tongue and groove plywood. The plywood for the roof comes in 4’x8’ sheets and will hold the roof members together much like decking secures the deck frame. The next layer will be a minimum #15 roofing felt, which can be stapled in place over the plywood to create a water tight barrier for the shingles to cover. Install drip edge flashing to the lower edge of the roof and step flashing at the house wall.
1.Siding | 2.Kickout Flashing | 3.Step Flashing |
4.House Sheathing | 5.Gutter | 6.Roof Sheathing |
7.Drip Edge Cap | 8.Asphalt Shingles | 9.Roof Felt |

How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
How To Build a Shed Roof Over A Deck
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.
Options for Adding Electric Fixtures To Your Porch
Adding electric fixtures to a porch can allow you to enjoy your outdoor space in new ways. Learn more about adding electric fixtures to your porch at Decks.com
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Best Time to Build a Deck
People often wonder when the best time to build a deck is. Learn why building a deck in winter or fall might be your best bet.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
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
How to Install & Build a Porch Roof
A porch roof is essentially composed of layers of specialized materials that are designed to last for many years of natural exposure. Above the structural trusses or rafters, your roof will be covered in 3/8” or 1/2” tongue and groove plywood. The plywood for the roof comes in 4’x8’ sheets and will hold the roof members together much like decking secures the deck frame. The next layer will be a minimum #15 roofing felt, which can be stapled in place over the plywood to create a water tight barrier for the shingles to cover. Install drip edge flashing to the lower edge of the roof and step flashing at the house wall.
1.Siding | 2.Kickout Flashing | 3.Step Flashing |
4.House Sheathing | 5.Gutter | 6.Roof Sheathing |
7.Drip Edge Cap | 8.Asphalt Shingles | 9.Roof Felt |

How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
Deck Roof
We discuss some of the challenges of building a porch roof over an existing deck.
7 Tips to Keep Bugs Away From Your Patio
Don’t let mosquitoes, flies or ants stop you from enjoying your patio. Learn the best way to keep bugs away so you can get back to relaxing at Decks.com.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
How to Demolish & Remove a Deck
At some point, it might become necessary to remove an old deck, due to age or condition. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal 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