DIY Network

New Orleans Cafe Patio: Measuring for Posts, Railings and Awning From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-206

	In this episode of Weekend Remodeling, host Fuad Reveiz converts this backyard patio into ...
	a dazzling New Orleans style cafe.

Host Fuad Reveiz begins the process of converting a patio into a New Orleans style cafe by measuring for the posts, railings and awning.

On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the most difficult, this project rates a 2.

Materials:

Custom awning and frame
Cast-iron columns, railings and headers
Exterior ceiling fan
Non-metallic building electrical wire
Conduit
Drill
Masonry bits
Level
Framing square
Hammer and nails
Chalk line
Tape measure
Pencil
Screwdrivers
Wrenches
Wire strippers

advertisement

	Figure A
	Figure B

Note: In planning for this project, you'll need to determine where you want to put the posts, how big you want it to be and even where you want the opening to be located. Drawing several sketches of different cafe and awning styles may help decide between what looks best and what makes the most sense. Keep in mind that there are some inexpensive computer programs on the market that can create 3D images of this project (figure A). They can give you a great sense of what the finished project will look like.

1. The first step in a project like this is actually something that has to be done before the weekend arrives, and that's to take precise measurements. And it's a must on a job this size to have someone to help out.

2. Begin by using a level to determine the exact location for the line on the concrete pad. Place the level starting at the top and check to make sure it's plumb all the way down (figure B). Next, drop the level to the pad, check the bubble, and then you can make the mark.

3. Measure from the house to the line on the pad, then move over to the other side of the pad and transfer that same measurement from the house out to the corner.

4. Snap a chalk line across the front of the pad.

5. Measure the width at the back of the pad that runs along the house. Using the framing square to tell when you're square, then snap a chalk line from the back to the front of the pad at what will be the corner of the cafe.

6. Get the height measurements along the soffit of the house by measuring at the front and the back. This will tell both the cast-iron fabricators and the awning maker what they need to know.

In the next segment, Reveiz will attach the posts, headers and railings to the concrete pad and house.

RESOURCES :

Fabrication and Cast-Iron Information

Jenkins Fabrication & Cast Iron
Phone: 865-376-6366

GUESTS :

Christian Cain
Camel Custom Canvas Shop
Toll-free: 800-524-2704
Website: www.camelcanvas.com