An enclosed patio can add much-needed space to a home. It can provide a quiet sanctuary from children, a room to read in or just a place to be outside but still be protected from pests like mosquitoes and flies. Fortunately, a patio is an easy project that can be constructed by any do-it-yourself enthusiast. Does this Spark an idea?
Building a Patio
Before you start any portion of this project, check out local building codes and ordinances. In some cities and states, a patio enclosure may fall under a home addition or new building, which would require a permit. Also, if you are planning to pour concrete to create a concrete patio, you may require a permit for that also.
Building the actual patio is the first step toward an enclosed patio. The patio is easy to construct and with a little sweat and ambition, it can be finished in a single afternoon. To begin, dig out the area by rooming the sod, weeds or other obstructions. Try to dig your patio down at least 7 inches and then level out the area with a shovel before continuing on to the next step (see Reference 1).
Once the area is clear, cut and lay down a layer of thick, black landscaping fabric. Landscaping fabric is not a necessity, but it will help prevent unwanted growth from re-emerging beneath the patio and causing issues with the structure. Next, lay down a 4-inch layer of gravel over the top of the landscaping fabric, followed by a 1-inch layer of builder's sand (see Reference 1).
Between each layer, use a tamping tool to tamp down the area. This will prevent the bricks from shifting after you've laid them out. Compact the area with the tamper after you've laid down your layer of gravel and once again after you've laid down the sand (see Reference 1).
Last, begin to put the bricks into your chosen pattern. Once the bricks have been set into place, pour a small amount of the builder's sand over the bricks. Then, use a broom to sweep the sand across the entire patio to fill in all the little cracks and prevent the bricks from shifting when the patio is in use (see Reference 1).
Installing a Patio Enclosure
A basic wooden patio enclosure is an easy structure to add and can be completed over a few days or even in a single afternoon for those with experience. Using the measurements for your new or existing patio, purchase the materials for the enclosure. Build the frame of the enclosure using basic construction lumber, such as 2-by-4s, along with window screen, roofing shingles, heavy-duty wood screws and some paint or stain.
Using your 2-by-4s, construct the frame of the patio enclosure. The studs for the wall should be placed approximately 24 inches apart (see Reference 3). If you plan to install a door, leave adequate space. Once the walls are up and the frame is in place, begin installing your new roof. The roof will protect the structure and anything inside it from the weather.
With the roof, aim to use shingles that match your existing roof. To install a roof over your new patio enclosure, lay down the plywood boards and attach them to the roof frame, followed by tar paper and the chosen roofing shingles.
Lastly, use a staple gun to attach the window screen to the 2 by 4s on the frame. You can also apply stain or sealant to the frame of the patio enclosure to protect it from damage, such as rain.
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