When the coronavirus pandemic hit, many newly quarantined residents sought safe outdoor spaces. Rooftops became coveted places to escape the crowded streets below and enjoy a cool breeze and privacy.
Rooftop social spaces are now a staple in most new residential building developments. They can be outfitted with grills, picnic tables, and planters to help residents relax.
With space at a premium, city lovers are reimagining their roofs – turning them into places to hang out and play. This underutilized space has an increasing variety of uses from a rooftop bar to a hotel pool.
If you want to add extra living space to your home, consider installing a floating rooftop deck on top of a flat roof. Not only will this provide a spot to relax and entertain, but it can also increase your property’s value.
As with any construction project, size and materials will determine the cost of a roof deck. Choosing a sustainable material will help lower your overall cost and make it easier to maintain in the future.
Once you have determined the type of material you want for your roof deck, it’s time to think about the features you’ll include. Some options include an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, hot tub, or raised plant beds.
One of the most common installation methods for a floating deck is a deck frame with joists running parallel. Then, porcelain decking is attached to the posts for a seamless look and added durability.
Alternatively, you can build a floating roof deck with pedestal support systems. These systems allow for quick and easy installation of decking or pavers on any impervious surface. The adjustable design allows for accurate spacing, eliminates the need for sloped surfaces, and allows for immediate drainage.
Getting Started
Floating rooftop decks are a great way to extend your living space and make your home more beautiful. They can also be a fantastic place to relax, play and entertain.
Knowing your local building code and zoning regulations is essential when getting started. Almost all areas require a permit to build a deck attached to your house.
You must also confirm that your roof can support the additional weight of a floating deck. This will significantly impact the materials and size of your roof deck.
Regardless of the type of deck you choose, be sure to measure all components before cutting. A well-measured deck will save you time and frustration down the road.
Designing Your Deck
Before you start building your deck, you’ll need to design it how you want to use it. Will you entertain and need room for tables and chairs, or do you want a private retreat where you can soak in a hot tub or lounge in a hammock?
It would help if you also considered other utility needs, such as an outdoor kitchen or fire table. Talk to an experienced builder who can help you prioritize your needs and get creative with the design.
Once you’ve determined the size and shape of your deck, you can start laying out the materials. You’ll need concrete blocks to support the frame and a few pieces of pressure-treated lumber for the boards.
Building the Frame
Unlike a traditional deck, a floating rooftop deck doesn’t attach to a building or require handrails. This makes them easier to build, less expensive, and more practical than traditional outdoor spaces.
Floating rooftop decks also allow for unique design elements. For example, a floating deck can cantilever over a water garden, creating an inviting space for guests to relax and enjoy the yard.
To build the frame for your deck, start by laying out concrete deck blocks in a rectangle on the ground. Ensure all blocks are level by taking diagonal measurements across the opposite corners and checking that they’re equal.
Once the rectangular frame is complete, the interior layout blocks are two feet apart in each trench line. Add a wooden block between each pair of corner blocks for added stability.
Installing the Deck
Floating rooftop decks are the next step in making the most of your home’s space. They are an affordable, low-profile option that doesn’t require a building permit.
Rather than relying on concrete piers, these decks float over the ground with a sturdy base of pre-formed concrete blocks. Adjustable for any size deck, these blocks hold a line of joists to form the frame for the decking.
To install the frame, first clear the area for the deck and prepare the soil. Rake the soil level and tamp it down to create a flat, even surface for constructing the frame.
After you’ve laid out the frame, spread a layer of gravel over it to prevent weeds from growing under the deck. You can also use landscape fabric to cover the ground before laying the concrete blocks.
