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How do I fit a canopy on a wall when there are downpipes in the way?

When installing a lean-to canopy or patio cover, the wall plate normally needs to be fixed directly to the rear wall of the property. If there are downpipes or soil pipes in the way, there are a couple of simple installation methods that allow you to fit the canopy securely while maintaining proper drainage.

Option 1: Box around the pipe

When fitting an Omega Smart Canopy, the easiest solution is usually to box around the downpipe.

This involves building a small boxed section around the pipe so the canopy wall plate can sit neatly across the front of it. A section can then be cut out of the aluminium wall plate to allow it to fit around the boxed section.

Once installed, the wall plate sits on the front face of the boxed area, allowing the canopy to be fixed securely to the wall.

This approach has an additional benefit:
It provides a flat edge for cutting and sealing the canopy roof sheets, making installation easier and ensuring a clean, weatherproof finish.

Option 2: Build the wall out to clear the pipe

Another option is to build the wall out behind the wall plate so it sits flush with the depth of the downpipe or soil pipe.

This can be done by installing a timber batten or structural spacer along the wall that is the same depth as the pipe. The canopy wall plate can then be fixed directly onto this built-out surface.

This method allows the entire wall plate to remain straight and uninterrupted, which some installers prefer for larger canopies.

Which method is best?

Both methods work well, but the best option depends on the position and size of the pipe.

  • Boxing around the pipe is usually quicker and simpler.

  • Building the wall out creates a completely straight wall plate installation.

Both solutions allow you to install an Omega Smart aluminium canopy or garden verandah even when downpipes are present on the wall.

You can view the full range of Omega Smart Canopies here:
https://www.omegabuild.com/product-category/canopies-carports-verandahs/smart-canopies

These aluminium canopy systems are designed to be adaptable for real-world installations, including walls with pipes, gutters and other obstacles.