How to cover metal outdoor patio roof?

mcurrie

I have a metal roofed patio area in the back garden, and I would like to cover up and hide the metal roof.  I am thinking to put simple white sheeting but I am not sure how to attach this to the metal structure - i.e. do I need to attach some wooden batons first of all, or can I attach some brackets to the metal frame so that I can screw in the sheeting.  Also, I am not sure if I should use marine board, or MDF or even cement board.  Any suggestions on the best board/sheeting to use would be really appreciated.  Also, the mechanism to attach the board.

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @mcurrie. It's amazing to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about sheeting a roof.

Any modifications made to a pre-existing structure like your roof would require it to be assessed by a builder or engineer to determine if it has the structural capabilities to bear the additional weight of the sheeting. If the structure is only designed to support itself, then you wouldn't be able to add additional weight. If you know the manufacturer of the roofing then they'd likely be able to assist with your questions. You'll need to know if the structure can carry additional weight and whether the beams will be compromised by drilling and fixing screws into them. You'll also need to add batons or additional members to fix off your sheeting to as the spacing on the existing beams is not adequate for most exterior cladding products.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell