An awning is a great improvement to your home or really any building. An awning is a roof structure that is attached to one wall of a building. This attachment is accomplished by the use of a “Ledger board”. (more about that later). Since an awning is mostly a roof structure, it usually ends up with 3 open sides. The Foundation of an awning is usually dependent on the “Attachment wall” on the end connected to the existing building and a set of concrete footings at the opposite end.
The tarp was securely fastened to the previously mentioned “Ledger board” that was also previously installed when the building was built. The clear tarp awning roof lasted for almost a year, creating a temporary dry storage area. (And a dry work area to dig the holes and mix the concrete). Sadly the temporary tarp became a casualty of an unexpected snow storm.
The next step is to dig holes and pour concrete footing as you see in the next picture. Metal brackets are added to the concrete before it cures to attach wood support posts for the framing.
The Framing comes next and is fairly simple. A good carpenter can frame this for you. The component parts are 3 – 4×4 posts, a beam, (this one is a glulam beam). You will notice that the beam is being easily lifted into perfect position by the use of threaded feet on the yellow scaffolding. Next comes the roof rafters. They are attached to the ledger board at the top with metal brackets. The other end of the rafters sits on top of the beam.
Plywood is installed, underlayment and composition roofing.
Here isthe finished awning. Wood trim and paint are added where needed to complete the project. An awning is a great project to create extra storage that is dry and shade from the sun. It will add additional value and usefulness to your home, garage or outbuilding.
Are you looking to downsize and live a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle? Building your own tiny home might just be the answer. With an average size of 200-400 square feet, tiny homes offer a cozy and efficient living space that can be customized to your liking. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of building your own tiny home and provide some valuable insights along the way.
Components of the Job
The process of building a tiny home involves several key components that need to be considered. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
Carpentry Framing: This is the structural skeleton of your tiny home. It involves building the walls, floors, and roof using lumber and ensuring they are structurally sound and able to withstand the elements. This stage requires precision and attention to detail, as any mistakes made here can have far-reaching consequences.
Carpentry Siding: Once the framing is complete, it’s time to add the exterior siding. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your tiny home but also serves as a protective layer against the elements. There are various siding options available, such as wood, vinyl, and metal, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Windows and Skylights: The next step is installing windows and skylights to bring natural light into your tiny home and provide ventilation. Choosing energy-efficient windows will help to regulate the temperature inside and reduce energy consumption.
Roofing: The roof is another critical component that requires careful consideration. It needs to be weather-resistant and durable to withstand the elements. There are different roofing materials available, such as asphalt shingles, metal, or even a green roof, depending on your preferences and budget.
Painting: The final step in the construction phase is painting the walls and exterior of your tiny home. This is where you can showcase your personal style and make your tiny home truly unique. Consider using environmentally friendly paints to maintain a healthy indoor environment.
Uses of a Tiny Home
Apart from being a primary residence, tiny homes have a wide range of uses. Here are a few ideas:
Art Studio: If you’re a creative individual, a tiny home can serve as your personal art studio. The compact size allows for a focused and clutter-free workspace.
Playhouse: Tiny homes can make excellent playhouses for children. They provide a safe and imaginative space for kids to play and explore their own little world.
Guest House: A tiny home can be a perfect guest house for visitors. It offers privacy and comfort while still being close to the main residence.
Vacation Home: Instead of spending a fortune on expensive hotels or vacation rentals, consider building a tiny home that can serve as your personal vacation retreat.
When to Call a Professional
While a tiny home can still be a DIY project, there are certain areas where it is advisable to seek professional help. Building an entire home, even a small one, requires expertise and knowledge that many of us may not possess. Hiring construction professionals for the most technical and consequential parts of the build can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes, delays, and catastrophes down the road.
The most common areas where DIY tiny home builders seek professional help are utilities and complex household systems, such as plumbing, electrical, gas lines, and HVAC. These systems involve potential risks and require specialized knowledge to ensure they are installed correctly and safely. A gas leak or faulty wiring could bring the whole place down, which is why it is crucial to leave these aspects of the build in the hands of professionals.
Contact Us Today!
If you are ready to embark on the exciting journey of building your own tiny home and want expert guidance every step of the way, get in touch with our team today. Our professionals are here to assist you with the most technical aspects of the build, ensuring a safe and successful project. However, if you are interested in being taught the process yourself, we also offer courses and workshops designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Don’t wait, take the first step towards your tiny home dreams and call us today!
