Canvas Roof for Outdoor Playhouse

Tools:

workbench
sawhorse
step stool
ladder
circular saw
power drills
C-clamps
L-brackets
pencil
level
tape measure
spring clamps
hammer
carpenter’s square
awl
safety glasses
dust mask
tarp
pan-head screws
washers
gaskets
2-1/2 inch galvanized deck screws
3-1/2 inch galvanized deck screws
metal straps
2x4s for top plates and rafters
2x6s for ridge beam and end caps

1. Measure from post-to-post on all four sides to get the size for the base of your A-frame. Transfer the measurements to your plan (figure A).

2. In this case, the supports Harrison used were double top plates with half laps. So each support was made of two 2x4's cut separately, with one longer than the other. To make these, cut one piece the full length of the distance from the outside of each post upon which the top plates will rest. Cut the other piece slightly shorter, leaving a space at the end that is the width of a 2x4.

4. Test fit the top plates into place on top of the corner posts of the play structure (figure B).

5. Secure the first top plate supports to the 4x4 corner posts with 3-1/2 inch galvanized deck screws. Place two screws in diagonal corners on top of each post. Secure the top supports with the same screws but drill the screws into opposite corners (figure C).

6. Measure and cut your ridge posts using 2x4s. Make a temporary support to hold the post by clamping it to an L-bracket. Drive 2-1/2 inch galvanized deck screws through the base and into the top plate at an angle. To further reinforce the post, cut triangles from the end of a 2x4 and drive screws through each end and into the post and top plate (figure D).

7. Next measure and cut the ridge beam from a 2x6. Hoist it into place and attach to the ridge posts using metal straps and screws (figure E). Place a metal strap on each side at each end of the beam.

8. Now cut your rafters. To get the angle for the end, hold a 2x4 rafter piece so the corner touches the ridge beam, then hold a piece of 2x4 against the ridge beam and mark the line for the cut on the rafter (figure F).

9. Cut six matching rafters, three for each side. Attach the rafters by pre-drilling and then driving in screws at an angle and into the ridge beam (figure G). Connect the other end of the rafters to the top plate.

10. Cut 2x6 end caps for the rafters and attach with screws (figure H).

11. Now spread the tarp over the roof and fold the ends around and under the overhang (figure I).

12. Use an awl to make a dimple in the tarp and then pre-drill holes through the tarp and into the end caps. Attach using a screw with washer and rubber gasket (figure J). Make sure to keep the tarp snug as you attach it.

13. Finally, secure the tarp at the top of each end of the ridge beam (figure K).