Geometric awning for carport

A complex carport adds functionality and beauty to a Florida residence

What could easily have been a recipe for failure ended up an example of success through perseverance. Consider: a client with strong convictions to the point of fanaticism for a preconceived design idea, a Greek chorus of consultant experts and a fabricator with high standards for perfection. “This was the most exacting project we have ever done,” says Mitch Pietruska, president of Sun State Awnings Inc., Englewood, Fla. “The client (a mechanical engineer) not only reviewed every detail of the project, but also had two structural engineers review all aspects of construction.” According to Pietruska, every bolt and nut had to be approved, every structural section inspected prior to fabrication and again at installation.

Complicating the situation is the fact that the house, also located in Englewood, is curved ever so slightly forcing the carport canopy to require two different radiuses on the outer and inner (house side) edges of the supporting structure. There are six wedged-shaped sections to the canopy roof, each having two trussed radiuses at the outer edge and midpoint. Each section—placed in alternating high-low configuration—is wider at the outside and narrower at the inside where it attaches to the building.

Framing for the superstructure is composed of trussed joists resting on cross beams supported by square columns. “Every rafter was a different size and each section was unique, making for a difficult construction process,” says Pietruska. The project took eight months from sale to final installation. Nevertheless, Pietruska includes the carport among the company’s successes: “The final result was very attractive and exactly what the client wanted.”