Hey everyone! I've been thinking about adding a cover to part of my patio and would love your advice. So, my neighbor has a similar house and they built a covered patio. I'm considering covering the right 16x16 section of my patio with a gable or hip roof, and adding a cedar pergola on the left 12x14 area. My contractor mentioned three options: 1) cover the entire patio, 2) just cover the left pad which gives me more design flexibility, or 3) only cover the right pad but I'd have to use a hip roof instead of my favorite gable. He assured me that everything would be structurally sound and up to code but mentioned that this would create a new "valley" like my neighbor's roof has. He warned that during heavy rain, water might overshoot the gutters and pour down onto the corner of the patio. I won't be out there during heavy storms, but I'm worried about potential problems. Do you think it's safe to go ahead with just roofing the right side? I'm leaning towards it since I want it to feel like an extension of my home. Thanks for any advice!
2 Answers
I think covering just the right side could work, but do keep an eye on the valley situation. You might want to add some extra guttering or drainage solutions just to handle heavy rains better. Perhaps a small rain chain could manage overflow elegantly without too much fuss when it pours!
I get where you’re coming from. A valley like that can definitely lead to drainage issues, especially if your gutters aren't managing it well. If the contractor insists on a hip roof only, maybe push back on why a gable isn’t an option. It might be worth exploring that with him, especially if it could reduce potential water runoff problems.
Exactly! It sounds like you like this contractor, but getting clarity on the roof style could save you headaches later. Definitely discuss your concerns about the valley effect; if your neighbors are already seeing runoff issues, it might not be as minor as he claims.
Good call on the drainage options! A rain chain can be a stylish way to deal with runoff. Plus, almost any added drainage measure can help protect your patio and home’s foundation. Better safe than sorry!