Roof Top Deck Construction
There are proprietary pedestal systems that provide a very stable, level and serviceable deck over a roof membrane, though, they are relatively expensive compared to conventional methods.
In whatever manner a deck is constructed over a roof, maintenance for cleaning and repairs of the membrane below is recommended. Deck panels should be constructed that can be lifted with minimal effort or damage. The roof below should be cleaned and inspected at whatever intervals is found necessary for each deck. A deck located under pine trees will need much more maintenance to clean out debris than a rooftop deck above a high-rise.
Flat roofs are prone to leaking even without decks because of design errors, improper materials and improper installation. Many times when roof decks are installed, they further damage roofs causing more severe leaking and drainage problems. Proper waterproofing for a roof deck involves installing an EPDM membrane and flashing around deck supports and rail penetrations. This is often accomplished using EPDM boots that fit over the openings. EPDM is a rubber like sheet used for waterproofing surfaces. Roofs should be sloped about 1/4″ every 12″ to shed water. Drainage is very important because pooling water can cause leaks.
How Much Does It Cost To Build A Roof Over A Deck
The cost to cover a deck will depend on a number of factors. These factors include the type of material, the size of the roof, and how complicated it will be to build. Currently, the cost to add a roof over your patio will start at $2,000 and increase from there. Contact a local roofing company to get started and schedule an estimate for your project.
Can I Build A Deck On My Rooftop
Can your roof structure support the additional weight? A building code official may be able to help you here. Or not. At a minimum, they will likely know what the loading requirements are in your area. You may also need a master builder or structural engineer to determine the loading capacity of your roof. They can determine whether your existing roof can support the extra weight of a deck. Never build a rooftop deck without checking this first.
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Installation Timeline And Other Common Questions
Building a rooftop patio space is perhaps the most fun home remodeling project you can make for your home. Below are common questions asked to us by homeowners before beginning a roof deck project with Roof Hub. If you have any other questions, we’re only a phone call away! Call us today: 237-7648 or us the form on our contact page.
How long does installing a roof deck take?
Construction time for most roof decks runs between 2-6 days.
New construction projects take much longer than overhauls of existing roof decks. Other factors that will affect the install time include deck size, project complexity, weather, and available access points.
How soon can construction begin?
Once approved by the city, our current lead time for roof decks is between 3-6 weeks.
Do I need a structural engineer?
Though most buildings in Boston can support the construction of a roof deck, some cannot. Many times, the architect you hire during the planning phase can determine which category your building falls under but other times they will defer to a structural engineer.
Fortunately, you’ll know if you need to hire a structural engineer at the very beginning of the planning phase. And if you do need one, your architect will give you a list of recommended engineers to choose from.
Are roof decks safe?
As long as the roof deck builder follows Massachusetts code, then roof decks are structurally safe.
Do I need extra drainage to prevent water buildup?
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Do You Need Planning Permission For A Balcony On A Flat Roof
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Also, can I turn my flat roof into a balcony?
If it is constructed of traditional felt, attempting to upgrade it into a terrace or balcony is not recommended. Flat felt roofs have a short life span many house insurers refuse to cover older felt roofs. Over the years, they are affected by the elements, blistering, cracking and attracting moss and algae.
Furthermore, do you need planning permission for a Juliette balcony? Typically, the answer is no and they can be installed under permitted development rights. However, there are always exceptions. You are also likely to require planning permission if the property is listed, located in a conservation area or part of a block of flats.
Correspondingly, do you need building regs for a balcony?
Balcony – Building Regulations. In general, if the balcony is to sit more then three metres above the ground, then you will probably require planning permission. In some circumstances, planning permission can be waived, but this might depend on the amount of extension work you‘ve already had done on the property.
How much does it cost to put a balcony in?
Cost of Building a BalconyThe cost to build your new balcony will depend on several factors including size, height, materials, cost of labor, and finishes. According to HomeAdvisor, the average homeowner spends anywhere from $2000 total to build a smaller deck and about $7000 for a 200 by 500 square foot deck.
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Vinyl Decking Looks Great On Roof Decks
Previous options for roof decks were pretty drab in flat greys, whites, and beige. Luckily, todays printing technology allows you a variety of color choices so you can create an enjoyable outdoor living space. Whether you prefer the look of stone or wood, there is likely a type of vinyl surface that will suit your style and your space. Once installed, a PVC vinyl surface will require very little maintenance and could last you 10-20 years or more! This is a great way to help increase your homes resale value.
Can You Build A Deck On Top Of A Garage
Can You Build a Deck Over a Garage Roof? Yes! If your garage has a flat roof, or if you’re planning to build a garage that’s next to your home but below the level of the main floor, it’s entirely possible to build a deck on your garage roof. … Your roof might even end up leaking if something is not done correctly.Oct 24, 2019
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Rooftop Garden Terrace Or Deck Design Considerations
After your new waterproof membrane system is installed, and you will need a plan for the design elements you want to incorporate in your new space.
You have a variety of options for how to finish your new deck. There are:
- Lightweight patio slabs
- Wood or composite decking
- Tiles or pebbles that come in many colors and sizes.
If you are considering a rooftop garden, you will still need to plan walkways. Additionally, you need to choose which parts you want to be growing or whether you would like to use synthetic turf.
In addition, your contractor will also alert you to any building codes requiring you to install safety devices such as handrails if your roof is going to be used as extra living space.
Replacing An Old Roof Deck
When you already have a deck on your roof and want to upgrade or remodel it, Boston regulations make the entire process much easier than it would be when installing a brand new deck. As long as the previous roof deck had plans associated with it, oftentimes you can skip the new drawings, abutters meeting, and appeals part of the process. This makes the timeline from idea to project completion much shorter than building from scratch. You’ll enjoy these benefits as long as the deck layout and design does not change.
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Can I Turn My Roof Into A Deck
Adding a roof deck to an existing home is a bit trickier. It might be tempting to just slide open a tall window and shimmy out onto a flat roof, but to be safe and to have a truly functional roof deck, you’ll need to spend time and money. … But you have to evaluate the condition of the existing roof first.Aug 16, 2018
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How High Can I Build A Deck Without A Permit
If you plan to build a deck that is up to 1.5m high, you dont need a building consent but you may still need a resource consent, depending on the rules in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. If your is more than 1m high, it must have a handrail.
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Enjoying Your Rooftop Deck
Once your rooftop deck has been safely installed, it is time to relax and enjoy your new outdoor living space! By adding appropriate landscaping, comfortable furniture, and creating a welcoming atmosphere, you will quickly grow to favor your rooftop deck over other areas of your home.
Dont forget to maintain your rooftop deck! You may find it necessary to contact a pest control company to eliminate any bugs or pests that are also enjoying your new space. It is wise to continue routine roof inspections each year to make sure that your roof is maintaining its structural integrity, allowing you to enjoy your rooftop deck for years to come.
Are Rooftop Decks Worth It
There is a lot to consider when planning a rooftop deck, but is it worth it? The answer is a definite YES. Rooftop decks provide a return on your investment when done right and with the right materials. New and add-on construction of rooftop decks has been accelerating since 2014.Oct 20, 2020
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Roof Decks On Flat Roofs: Benefits And Considerations
Roof Decks on Flat Roofs: Benefits and Considerations
This is the time of year when decks are used more than in other seasons. Do you dream of having a large deck for relaxing with your family but dont have enough room to build it? If you have a flat roof, perhaps you could have a rooftop deck installed. If youre considering a roof deck for your flat roof, here are some of the flat roof deck benefits & advantages, along with a few considerations and warnings.
Benefits of Having a Rooftop Deck
Rooftop decks offer several benefits:
- One of the main advantages of having a rooftop deck is that it adds additional seasonal living space.
- A rooftop deck is ideal for entertaining.
- It provides homeowners with outstanding views.
- Having a deck built on a flat roof gives it fire resistance and high-quality thermal performance. This type of deck also provides your roofing system sound, structural support.
- It creates a slope for improved wind-uplift performance and a slope for drainage.
- Rooftop decks offer a large space for growing vegetables and plants in container gardens. Consider that vegetation grown in large planters can take advantage of full-sun exposure in open areas.
- A deck on your roof can add personality to your house, making it stand out in your neighborhood. Whats more, you can increase the value of your home.
Flooring Materials Used
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Do You Need A Roof To Cover A Patio
If youre looking for a roof to cover your outdoor living space, then this is a smart choice. Its one of the more expensive roofs, but will be as durable as the roof on your home and provide you with the same level of protection. When building your structure, you need to use the right type of wood, otherwise, it will rot.
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Access Points For Your Rooftop Deck
Access points, or means of egress, are the ways people can enter and exit the roof deck. Boston has strict building code for means of egress because they are critical for making the deck as safe as possible in the event of an emergency. How many access points you’ll need on your deck depends on who will be using the deck. There are two types of use: community decks and single owner decks.
Build Your Deck’s Substructure
Now that your flat roof has either been replaced or confirmed to be free of issues, it’s time to build the structural base for your new outdoor living space!
The deck’s “substructure” consists of everything that holds the roof deck together including the posts, rafters, hangers, and framing. These elements are critical to the project because they provide the backbone of what the deck itself will sit on.
Exact materials vary from project to project, however, two most common materials we use to create a roof deck substructure are pressure-treated wood and steel beams. If the building’s roof is not completely flat, steel beams may be required in order to create a flat, level surface that will be safe enough to use as a base for the deck flooring. Another reason steel beams may be used to frame the roof deck is occupancy limits. The code for this is 300 pounds per square foot.
Unless local code or the roof’s shape necessitates the use of steel, most homeowners are fine with a wood substructure in order to save on cost.
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Roof Is Able To Support Adequate Weight
Determining how much weight your roof can support is a job that should be left to a professional engineer or architect. Miscalculating the strength of your roof can result in grave damage and even death.While local building codes vary from state to state, the minimum requirements typically state that your roof needs to support at least 55 pounds of weight per square foot.
However, the necessary strength of your roof will also vary depending on how you plan to use the rooftop deck. For instance, if you plan to add a hot tub or other heavy furniture, you will need to account for the added weight in the design of your rooftop deck.
Even if your current roof is not strong enough to support the additional weight of a rooftop deck, there may be ways to strengthen the existing structure. You can read more about how to reinforce your roof strength here.
Composite Roof Deck Materials
If you can budget for it, you’ll likely be very happy that you chose composite decking for your rooftop patio. The most notable downside is that it’s a higher upfront cost than wood, but many homeowners feel that this levels out after a few years because of it’s benefits.
The #1 reason everyone loves composite decking is that it’s almost completely maintenance-free. If you don’t want to spend a weekend staining your deck every year or two, then choose composite. Lifespan is another significant upside, especially for your Boston-area deck that will experience more moisture and temperature swings than other regions across the United States. With composite, you won’t have to worry about wood rot.
Popular brands for composite roof deck material include Azek, Trex, and Fiberon. We almost exclusively use Fiberon because we’ve found that it’s the industry’s best value and offers impressive longevity. Your deck’s ability to stand up to Massachusetts weather for years to come should be considered during all phases of your project. And when it comes to deck material, we think you’ll agree that Fiberon’s slogan “Deck it right the first time” says it all!
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Why Is The Roof Included In A Flat Lease
However, the High Court ruled that the roof and airspaces of the garages were included in the leases to the flat owners because the lease divided the demise of each garage from the garages on either side of it vertically but made no reference to the parts above or below it i.e. any horizontal division.
Do You Need Planning Permission To Put A Balcony On A Flat Roof
With some properties planning permission for a roof deck or balcony may need to be taken into consideration in case there are immediate neighbors who might object to it on the grounds that privacy would be lost to them. Whats more, there may be building regulation approvals that you need to make sure the perimeter has enough balustrade or sufficient strength to support the weight of what would be included on a roof deck.
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How Vinyl Waterproof Decking Benefits Roof Decks
There are a few things that make PVC decking different in regards to roof decks. First, its designed to be waterproof and walkable whereas most other flat roof materials are not. Some vinyl decking products also incorporate CoolStep technology so you dont burn your feet .
When installed professionally, a vinyl roof deck surface incorporates into the structure of your home, condo, or commercial development. This method means that you get waterproofing from end to end not just on the surface. By incorporating the vinyl surface into the structure youre leaving virtually no room for future water damage when the vinyl decking is properly installed.
Obtain A Building Permit
Once your plans have been submitted and approved, you will need to obtain a building permit from your local building department. The process for this will vary depending on your area. However, you will likely need to provide detailed drawings and construction plans, neighborhood approval, and other documents.
Most likely, you will encounter a fee for the permit. However, obtaining a building permit is absolutely necessary for a project of this scope. Failing to accomplish the proper approval and permit processes will result in a hefty fine.
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Do Flat Roofs Always Leak
The main reason that flat roofs are more likely to leak is that they are less able to shed water. In other words, they do not allow elements like water to slide off them as easily as steeply sloped roofs do . All roofs are sloped at least a few degrees to avoid the allowance of sitting puddles of water.
