Expert: Dave Johnson - 3/13/2009

Question
Hi,
I have a wood patio cover attached to 2 story house. Attachment is by joist hangers nailed to wood beam on side of house, joist overhangs large beam on outside edge.  Had a leak so taking plywood and shingle paper off top (and had 1/2" drywall with T-11 over it on underside).  Will put new plywood and shingle paper on top, and wanting to consider wire/stucco/dryvit on underside (think I was told 3/8" thick but may have been 3/4" final thickness).  The joists are 2x6 on 24" centers and about 11ft span with slight slope.  What is a safe weight (PSF) to consider for the frame of this patio cover?

Answer
Hi Scott,
Thats a pretty light frame for any use.
I'm afraid the weight of the interior finish you want will create sagging. (and worse if you're in a snowy climate)
Ideally, you should re-frame the roof using 2"x8" 16" o.c.

If you need more, please mail me again...
Dave