How to install a beam for a fan on an aluminium patio?

[Doladin]

Hi Team,

I have an existing outdoor aluminium patio in the below style:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/slimline-roofing-3-6-x-1-2m-hi-gloss-colorbond-patio-kit_p0401057

This patio is supported by posts on one side, and stirrups on roof trusses on the other side. The patio has an aluminium beam frame around the perimeter of the roof, but does not have any 'joists' going across the span.

My goal is to add an outdoor fan or two hung on the patio. For this, I need to install a beam/joist to hang the fan off.

Presumably, I can purchase a beam like this:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/alyspan-3-0m-x-150mm-pearl-white-patio-beam_p0066148

However, I am unsure which joist hanger to purchase, and which hardware to use. I know ceiling fans are somewhat heavy, so I want to ensure that I use the correctly rated equipment.

Thanks!

Mike

[JacobZ]

Hi Mike (@Doladin),

Thank you for your question.

Was the patio you have that specific kit? Or were you just using it as an example?

Structures, especially ones that come in a kit, are designed to strict engineered tolerances and making structural additions outside their original design is something that would need to be confirmed with the manufacturer or an engineer. What you're suggesting about adding a beam to the patio is likely possible, but it would need to be confirmed suitable by someone qualified to say so.

If it is deemed ok by a suitably qualified person, then the mounting method is going to be relative to the circumstances under which it is installed. I note that Alyspan have a variety of brackets, however I would have to see your patio to suggest a likely option.

If you have some photos of where you're looking to install the fan, this would certainly help.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob