How to Install an Apex Door Canopy: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

two men installing a diy door canopy

Installing one of our apex door canopies is a straightforward task perfect for any confident DIY enthusiast. Thanks to their lightweight construction and user-friendly design, our apex canopies are not only the most popular style we offer but also the simplest to install. Just follow this step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Positioning and Installing the Gallows Brackets

1. Mark the Centre:
   Start by locating the exact centre above your doorway. Mark this point clearly with a pencil or marker.

2. Measure for Gallows Bracket Placement:
   Calculate half the width of your canopy (e.g., for a 1040mm canopy, measure 520mm from the centre mark in both directions). Draw vertical lines at these points to guide gallows bracket placement.

3. Mount the First gallows Bracket:
   Hold a gallows bracket against the wall so that the inner edge aligns with the vertical line and the top sits level with or slightly above the top of your door.

·         Use a spirit level to ensure it's vertical.

·         Mark the position of the lower fixing hole, avoiding mortar lines for better strength.

·         Drill a 10mm diameter hole 50mm deep.

·         Insert a wall plug and partially screw the gallows bracket into place.

4. Secure the Bracket:
Once the bracket is loosely attached, check its vertical alignment again with your level and mark the top fixing hole.

·         Drill, and fix the top hole.

·         Fully tighten both screws.

5. Install the Second Gallows Bracket:
Repeat the above steps for the second bracket.

·         Use a level across the tops of both brackets to ensure they are horizontally aligned.

Step 2: Assembling the Canopy Roof

1. Join the Roof Panels:
   On the ground, position the two roof halves to form an apex.

2. Secure the Joint:
   Insert three screws through the area where a composite slate tile is missing, this holds the roof securely together.

3. Conceal the Screws:
   Stick the missing composite slate tile over the screws using the self-adhesive backing for a clean, finished look.

Step 3: Mounting the Canopy Roof

1. Position the Roof:
   With the help of another person, lift the canopy roof and place it onto the gallows brackets.

2. Initial Fixing:

·         Drive two screws through the front face of the gallows brackets into the canopy.

3. Rear Fixing:

·         Drill two 10mm diameter holes 80mm deep through the back of the canopy into the wall, avoiding mortar lines.

·         Insert wall plugs, hammer in the fixings, and tighten securely.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Add the Finial:
   Fix the decorative finial to the apex of the canopy using a screw from the inside to secure it.

2. Install the Truss (If you have it):
   If your canopy includes a truss, attach it to the centre underside of the canopy with screws to fully support it.

Step 5: Step Back and Admire

You’ve don’t it! Give yourself a pat on the back.

Sounds easy? Find your ideal canopies here:

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🧰See our Installation Guide & FAQs