What do I need to build a patio cover?

Question

I have a 2" concrete patio slab. I am thinking about building a patio cover. Can I set the the patio posts on the concrete or should I dig a foundation (How deep should it be).
I need to know the formula of how wide and deep should the rafters be in regards to the distance between posts. For example, if two posts are 12' a part, how deep and wide should the rafter be.

I could use some good blue prints if anyone has any.

Thanks
Sammy

Answer 1

There are aluminum plates that you can get to rest on the concrete and hold a 4 x 4. First decide if you want that fiberglass wavy panel or regular plywood shingle construction. IN either case 2 x 6's will be fine for the rafters I am going to assume a 12' x 12' thing here. you will need
9-2 x6 12'
2 4 x 4 8'
4 lag screws (to attach the header board to the wall
7 joist hangers
6 of the fiberglass panels or 5 4 x 8 plywood
if shingling 5 bundles
Nails as appropriate to which you are going to do
Insure that the end away from the house is at least 6 - 12 inches lower than the part attached to the house Dependant upon roofing choice.

Answer 2

It's probably going to cost more than you want to pay, but that's just the way it is. Get a couple of contractors to quote. Check references. The cheapest isn't usually the best. If a guy checks out better, he may be worth a little more. Quoting just gives you a way to know if somebody is giving a reasonable estimate. You may have to redefine what is reasonable, to you, if your definition means a low price that you have arbitrarily set. To me, if several people give numbers in the same range, then they are being reasonable. Good luck!

Answer 3

At least hire a professional framer. Then you can do the finish work. But the frame should be left to the pros.