These days the handyperson is taking on more interesting and varied projects
than ever before. At Sundown Patios, we provide a variety of Stratco ‘Do It
Yourself’ projects. If you enjoy turning your skills to a project that will add value
to your home and give you satisfaction for years to come, a Stratco project
could be just what you need.

Council Approval

It is important to contact your local government authority prior to installing your
new unit to obtain building or planning approval. All Stratco components have
been certified by independent structural engineers.

Before You Start

• Read instructions before you start.

• If you do not have all necessary tools or information contact us for advice.

• Before starting, lay out the main components in order of assembly on the
  ground and check them
  against the delivery note. The Parts Description identifies each part
  and their fastener positions.

• Mark out the overall area of your verandah, patio or carport and ensure it is
  free from obstructions. Ensure reasonable access for materials and
  working space and consider disposal of run-off water.

• Check column and beam positions on the ground. Roughly check for
  square and mark hole locations. Beam-to-wall connections can cause
  difficulty if they coincide with door and window openings, so avoid these
  in your design.

Reminders

• Measure twice before cutting or drilling.

• Always remove drill fittings (‘swarf’) and all other debris which otherwise
  can cause premature rusting.

• Remove protective plastic coating before attaching brackets, fasteners,
  or other parts and after completion.

• Ensure the double thickness portion of the beam is always on top.

• Waterproof each rivet with silicone sealant applied from the ‘weather’ side.

• Refer to the “Selection, Use & Maintenance of Stratco Steel Products”
  brochure for helpful hints and to prolong the life of your unit.

• The minimum roof pitch is 1° (or 35mm every 2m).

• The minimum fall of guttering to the downpipe end is 1 in 500
  (or 12mm every 6m)

• Warning: do not stand or walk on translucent sheets.

• Translucent sheets must always be supported on both sides by metal
  roof sheets.

• Use of temporary props will assist in easier installation of your unit.

• A walk plank will assist with installation of gutters.

Maintenance

Failure to maintain a regular maintenance programme may result in a significantly
reduced lifespan (refer to the “Selection Use & Maintenance of Stratco Steel
Products” brochure).

Your new verandah or carport should receive a wash and wipe down with a soft
broom, mop or sponge as frequently as you should wash your car to maintain
ts duco.

More frequent cleaning and rinsing will be required in severe environments.

In corrosive industrial or marine environments, the manufacturer recommends
the use of colour steel with a stainless steel base.

Further Information

For any additional information on installation or other handy hints
please contact us.