A variety of roofing options are available and three styles are discussed here. Redwood slat roofs are economical, easy to install and offer varying degrees of protection from the sun. Wood shingles can be installed over a paper and plywood base or can be nailed directly to spaced slat sheathing which is constructed similarly to the slat roof.
Shingled roofs offer full protection from the sun and rain.
Pre-measure and carefully mark the rafters with slat positions for faster and easier installation. Nail the slats directly to the rafters using two 8d nails per bearing. Predrill holes at slat ends to prevent splitting. Add two more slats at the roof's edge to simplify installation of the starter course. Space the rest of the slats five inches on center or to match the weather exposure.