Project Location and Homeowner Goals
The homeowner in Oronogo, Missouri, loved their backyard but had one big problem: no shade. In summer, the concrete pad behind the house baked in the sun, making it almost impossible to sit outside and enjoy the space. E.L. Marshall Construction was brought in to design and build a sturdy, long-lasting patio cover that would provide real shade, add value, and look like it had always been part of the home.
Smart Structure: LVL Beams and 6x6 Posts
To support the new roof, our crew used LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams, an engineered wood product made by bonding thin layers of lumber with strong adhesives for consistent strength. LVL beams are prized in residential construction because they can span longer distances than standard dimensional lumber with less sagging, making them ideal for patio covers and porch roofs when designed and protected correctly.
The vertical structure relies on 6x6 treated posts, secured to the existing concrete pad with anchor bolts and heavy-duty brackets for a solid connection. This approach helps transfer roof loads safely into the slab while resisting uplift and lateral movement from wind. The treated posts and hardware-based connection are key for long-term durability in an exposed outdoor environment.
Thoughtful Envelope: Underlayment and Siding Choices
Where the new roof ties into the house, our team removed shingles and installed proper roofing underlayment and compatible materials before building the patio cover, helping protect the structure from moisture intrusion and extending the life of both the home’s roof and the new cover. This step is easy to gloss over, but it is critical for preventing leaks at the transition between old and new.
To finish the vertical surfaces, multi-purpose siding was used to enclose the wall portion, providing a clean, low-maintenance surface that blends with the existing exterior. On the underside, E.L. Marshall installed car siding to create a warm, finished ceiling rather than exposed framing. “Car siding” (also called boxcar siding or V-groove) is tongue-and-groove wood paneling with a characteristic center groove that creates a classic, linear look and adds stiffness, making it a popular choice for porch and covered patio ceilings.
Car siding Ceiling and LED Recessed Lighting
The car siding ceiling does more than look good; it hides wiring, protects the structure, and creates a cozy, room-like feel outdoors. The boards lock together with tongue-and-groove edges, helping control gaps and movement and delivering a smooth, continuous surface that elevates the whole space.
For lighting, the homeowners chose 6" LED recessed fixtures integrated into the new ceiling. Outdoor-rated recessed lights are a strong option for covered patios because they provide even illumination without hanging fixtures that can visually clutter the space or conflict with ceiling fans. LEDs offer long life, low energy use, and cool operation, making them ideal for frequent evening use and for pairing with patio string or accent lights.
From Hot Slab to a Usable Outdoor Space
Before this project, the backyard patio was essentially a bare concrete pad with direct sun, high heat, and limited comfort. The new roof structure, LVL beams, anchored posts, and enclosed ceiling turned that pad into a true outdoor room where the homeowners can relax, entertain, and enjoy their yard even during peak summer.
E.L. Marshall worked within the existing footprint and any space constraints, tailoring beam spans, post placement, and roof connection details to fit the home while maintaining headroom and clear traffic paths. The finished project delivers deep shade, integrated lighting for night use, and finishes that complement both the house and the rest of the yard.
What E.L. Marshall Does Differently
Projects like this highlight how E.L. Marshall Construction goes beyond basic “add a roof over the slab” work. Our team invests time in structural detailing (engineered LVL beams, properly anchored posts), careful integration into the existing roof, and upgraded finishes like car siding ceilings and enclosed underbellies.
If you are exploring backyard patio ideas—from simple covers to fully finished outdoor living spaces with custom ceilings, patio lights, and integrated electrical—E.L. Marshall Construction can help you design and build a solution tailored to your home, climate, and budget. Reach out today to discuss your project and turn your own hot, unused patio into a shaded retreat you will actually enjoy.