Loading

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.Siding2.Kickout Flashing3.Step Flashing
4.House Sheathing5.Gutter6.Roof Sheathing
7.Drip Edge Cap8.Asphalt Shingles9.Roof Felt

 

Most builders use 3-tab asphalt shingles that match the house shingles for porches. Snap a vertical chalk line down the center of the roof and start at the bottom. You want to trim the tabs off the shingles to create a starter course. Fasten the shingles so they overhang the drip edge by 1/2". Snap horizontal lines every 5" and vertical lines every 6" with a chalk line all the way across the roof as a guide. Use the lines to continue installing the shingles to the top edge of the horizontal lines in order to achieve the 6" desired offset. Use 4 nails per shingle for installation. A roofing nail gun can speed up this job dramatically. Trim the shingles at the edge of the roof. Cut 12"x12" ridge cap shingles from standard shingles and center them over the ridge and attach with 2 nails. If you want to try something different, you may look into installing a metal roof.
Roof Step Flashing Profile
PinterestSave

Popular Porches & Patios Articles
Porch Building

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.

Porch Building

How to Build a Porch: Steps for Building a Front Porch Deck

Building a porch can be challenging, but allows you to enjoy your outdoor space year round.Learn the basics about building a porch roof over a deck at Decks.com.

Porch Building

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.

Next Step: Decking Articles
Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

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.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Porches & Patios Articles
Porches

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.

Porch Building

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.

Porch Building

How To Build a Gazebo

A gazebo can be a great addition to your outdoor space. Learn the basics of how to build a gazebo for your space at Decks.com!

Next Step: Decking Articles
Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

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.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic