Installing a Stratco Patio is a fantastic way to expand your outdoor living space, especially with a Sanctuary Patio Kit, and with the right preparation, you can assemble it confidently and safely as a DIY project. This guide walks you through the major stages you’ll see in the HowTo video, helping you understand what comes next and what to look out for along the way. Please note that in this guide, we are assembling an attached patio kit. Steps will vary from assembling a freestanding patio kit.
Step 1: Prep Your Tools, Components & Fixings
Before getting stuck in, gather all tools required for the build and unpack your Sanctuary Patio kit. Lay everything out neatly and check all components against the delivery list - including the fixings box.
If your design uses steel fascia, timber fascia, or brickwork, ensure you’re using the correct recommended fasteners for your installation type. Have your concrete ready if you're installing posts into the ground.
Step 2: Prepare And Install The Back Channel
Your Back Channel acts as the upper support for the roof sheets.
- Measure and mark the Back Channel length on the wall.
- Transfer the measurements to the Back Channel and cut to size.
- Remove protective plastic and mark fixing locations - – (Max. 250mm spacings if fixing to house Facia or max. of 500mm spacings if attaching to brick wall)
- Pre-drill the fixing points, enlarge with a step drill, and wipe away swarf.
- Hold the Back Channel up to the wall, mark the hole positions, then drill into the wall using a masonry bit.
- Apply a bead of silicone to the back of the channel and secure it to the wall, ensuring it stays level.
- Leave the end holes free for installing the Wall Brackets later.
Step 3: Install The Wall Brackets
- Pre-drill and enlarge the bracket holes.
- Align each bracket with the end holes on the Back Channel.
- Ensure they sit level before securing them with the recommended screws or anchors.
- Once secured, install the remaining Back Channel screws.
- Insert the PVC nitrile foam seal into the Back Channel to weatherproof the roof sheet connection.
Step 4: Prepare The Posts & Beam Brackets
- Mark three screw locations on each post bracket.
- Pre-drill the holes and secure each bracket with self-drilling screws.
- Wipe away any swarf.
- Check your Patio Specification Sheet to confirm layout, spans, and post positions.
Step 5: Mark Out & Install The Posts
Use a Fascia Beam laid on the ground to map out post locations. Your installation method may include:
- In-ground footings: Dig to specified depths, place a brick/hard item at the bottom, and prepare for concrete.
- Footing brackets on existing concrete: Secure brackets using masonry anchors and fit the posts over them.
Posts will be cut to the final height once Fascia Beams are positioned.
Step 6: Install The Fascia/Side Beams
- Remove protective plastic from all beams.
- Lift a Side/Fascia Beam into the Wall Bracket and support it with props.
- Ensure a 1° fall for effective water drainage.
- Fix the beam to the Wall Bracket.
- Measure, cut, deburr, and install the Corner Posts, ensuring each is level.
- Secure the posts to the beams with self-drilling screws.
Step 7: Square, Level & Concrete The Frame
Before roofing, ensure the entire frame is accurate and stable:
- Confirm the fall of the beams.
- Square the frame using diagonal measurements or the 3-4-5 method.
- Brace the patio temporarily.
- Pour concrete around each post in layers, agitating to remove air pockets.
- Check posts remain plumb as you fill the holes.
- Once concrete has cured, remove props and bracing.
Step 8: Prepare & Install The Roof Sheets
- Unpack roof sheets onto trestles.
- Turn up/down the ends approximately 30° using the required tool.
- Lay sheets with the overlapping rib away from the prevailing wind.
- Use a soft cloth to protect the frame while sliding sheets into position.
- Tap sheets into the Back Channel foam seal.
- Ensure correct overhangs:
- 50mm into the front gutter
- 50mm for side gutters (if used)
- Check sheets remain square every couple of sheets to prevent creeping.
- Rivet to the Back Channel and screw to the front Fascia Beam.
- Trim the last sheet if required.
- Rivet lap joins:
- 1 rivet for spans up to 3000mm
- 2 rivets for spans over 3000mm
Step 9: Install The Gutter & Downpipe
- Fix gutter stop ends with coloured rivets.
- Mark and cut the downpipe outlet.
- Insert and rivet the outlet, sealing with silicone.
- Clamp the gutter to the front Fascia Beam.
- Ensure roof sheets overhang 50mm into the gutter.
- Rivet through the roof sheets into the gutter at appropriate centres.
- Attach deck straps.
- Cut the downpipe to height, fit into place, and secure with straps.
- Screw or rivet the downpipe to both straps and the outlet.
Step 10: Fit The Barge Caps
- Cut the barge caps to fit around the gutter if needed.
- Remove protective plastic.
- Secure caps using self-drilling screws along the sides and top.
Step 11: Furnish Your New Patio
The final step for turning your new Sanctuary Patio into the dream outdoor entertaining area is furnishing it. From outdoor kitchens to stunning outdoor furniture, we have everything you need to create an outdoor dining area that is the envy of your guests.
Looking for more privacy? Our range of outdoor blinds and decorative screening can help enclose your new patio and create your own private getaway.
You’re Finished Assembling Your Sanctuary Patio!
With the frame secured, posts concreted, roof installed, and guttering fitted, your Sanctuary Patio is complete and ready to enjoy. Turn your new patio into your dream entertaining area by adding outdoor heating & cooling, Ambient Outdoor Blinds, new outdoor furniture, or some decorative screening to make it truly unique. If you ever need a hand, rewatch the video, visit your local Stratco team or contact us today.