Rooftop decks make great additions for any home or business, but particularly for brownstones and triple decker buildings with flat roofs. Many home and property owners like the idea of a rooftop deck to expand their enjoyment of the outdoors while utilizing vertical space – important for those who don’t have a yard to speak of. However, they’re not for everybody. If you’re considering a new deck in Boston MA, you’ll want to consider the following factors.
Here’s what you need to know before adding a rooftop deck.
Benefits of a Rooftop Deck
Wondering why you should invest in a rooftop deck? There are many advantages to this kind of addition:
- Amazing views, sometimes even 360 degrees.
- Offer fire-resistance and top-notch thermal performance
- Creates slopes for drainage
- Adds more living space
- Ideal for entertaining and relaxing
- Great way to add onto your property without having to construct a whole new addition.
- Provides a perfect space for growing vegetables and container gardening
Things to Consider
There are many factors to consider when putting in a rooftop deck, such as:
- Deck Material: Rooftop decks are usually made from wood but this option is generally more costly than others. These decks must have waterproof membranes to provide additional protection for your roof against moisture. Tiles are another option but they tend to be very heavy, and extra supports may have to be added to accommodate the extra weight. They are easier to clean than wood and are made from porcelain or granite. Sandstone is another option, which is low in maintenance. Trex or other synthetic decking is becoming more popular for its durability and weather resistance.
- Prior to Building: You’ll have to check with local building departments to find out if you need any permits to install your rooftop deck. You must also confirm that your existing roof is strong enough so that it will support the weight of a rooftop deck. In general, roofs must be able to support 55 pounds per square foot.
- Weather: Consider weather and climate before installing a rooftop deck, as harsh weather can prematurely damage the material. Ponding water is a common problem with flat roofing and rooftop decks, so address precautions that will prevent pooling and leaking. Your roof must be able to support additional water weight so it won’t be compromised under the weight of heavy rain or snow. You’ll also have to make accommodations to protect your rooftop deck from the sun, as well as thermal contractions and expansions.
Your Boston MA contractor can go over these considerations with you to ensure you’re making the right choice for your home or business.
Contact AD Construction
Thinking about adding a rooftop deck to your home? Consult with the proven deck contractors in Boston MA: AD Construction. We would be happy to answer your questions and give you a free quote when you contact us at 877-345-BUILD. Here at AD, we work with all kinds of wood, metal, composite materials and glass materials, specializing in modern rooftop deck innovations.
Designing and adding a rooftop deck to a historic Boston buildings and brownstones should be left to professionals. Building and designing rooftop decks in the South End, Back Bay, Cambridge, Dorchester, Brookline, Newton, Milton and the Boston Metro area since 1980.
