QA

Question: How To Build A Rooftop Deck

Can you build a deck on top of your roof?

Building a deck over a flat roof is very similar to building a deck over a concrete patio. Then, you will install “sleepers” or flat 2x6s laid flat every 16” on top of the roof surface. This will provide the surface for you to attach the decking.

How much does it cost to build a roof deck?

Adding any deck covering or enclosure will typically cost between $1,000 – $10,000. Adding a covered roof to your deck will typically cost between $3,000 – $10,000.

How much weight can a rooftop deck hold?

Joists spanning 20′ at 16” o.c. can support a “Live Load” (people and furniture, etc.) of 30 lbs. per square foot plus a “Dead Load” (framing, decking, etc.) of 10 lbs.

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.

What is the difference between rooftop and roof deck?

A roof deck is a rooftop patio or garden area. These outdoor, constructed spaces are located on the top of some homes, but are known mainly for being connected to the rooftop level apartments known as penthouses. A roof deck is typically is a rooftop patio or garden area. The deck itself is often made of wood or vinyl.

Can I turn my flat roof into a roof terrace?

In most cases, an existing flat roof will be used to create a roof terrace. In concrete or steel frame buildings, the existing flat roof is likely to have enough structural strength for a terrace, because the roof is constructed like the floor structures below.

Is a rooftop deck considered a story?

Roof Decks with Roof Coverings In general, occupied roof space with structure above is used for assembly occupancy (A-2) and will be considered a story per the definition of a story (see above).

What kind of plywood do you use for a flat roof?

A flat base is required to lay the roof covering on. This can be either Smartply OSB3 or good quality, structurally sound WBP plywood. A minimum thickness of 18mm must always be used.

Can I build a deck over a flat roof?

Many before you have asked the question, “Can you put decking on a flat roof?” – and the answer is yes. That is assuming that your roof is strong enough to support support the weight. You’ll want to start with consulting a local contractor to make sure the surface is fit for decking.

What is a floating deck?

A floating deck is a deck that isn’t attached to a building and they “float” above the ground. Generally, floating decks are low to the ground and don’t require handrails or even staircases. They are sometimes called “grade-level” or “freestanding” decks because they’re built just above the ground level, or grade.

How do you support a roof over a deck?

Deck boards – even deck framing – cannot support more than it was designed for – a deck. You have two options. Dig new concrete footings for posts that will support the roof structure above the deck. That requires digging below the frost line, installing 10” sonotubes, and filling them with concrete.

How do you install a roof over a deck?

Adding a Roof Over an Existing Deck 1.) Check with your local building department and apply for any permits you will need. 2.) Setting your ledger board. 3.) Building the support beam. 4.) Setting the rafters. 5.) Attach sub-fascia. 6.) Decking your roof. 7.) Roof felt and Shingles. 8.) Framing in the gable sides.

Can you put a hot tub on a rooftop deck?

To safely install a roof deck, the roof needs to be able to support about 55 pounds of weight per square foot in general. For instance, if you plan on installing something heavy like a planter or a hot tub, the deck and roof may require additional load-bearing capacity.

How much weight can a flat roof support?

A minimum requirement is for roofs to be able to support a concentrated weight of 300lbs. Concentrated weight means that this load is placed directly on a single area on the roof. A good estimate when considering a commercial flat roof is that it should be able to support a 300lb HVAC unit in a single 2.5×2.5ft space.

How much does a roof deck weigh?

B roof deck can be manufactured in the following gauges: 22, 20, 18, & 16. 22 Gauge is the lightest, weighing 1.9 pounds per square foot. 16 gauge is the heaviest, weighing 3.5 pounds per square foot.B Deck Gauges. Gauge Weight Per Square Foot 18 2.82 to 2.90 16 3.5 to 3.54.

Do rooftop decks count as square footage?

BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association) now includes balconies and roof decks in rentable square footage. Balconies, Covered Galleries and Finished Rooftop Terraces are now included in the “Tenant Area”, previously known as the Useable Square Footage. (USF.)Apr 25, 2018.

Are rooftop patios expensive?

Here’s what you can expect: Most rooftop decks go for between $25 and $50 per square foot. If you’re considering a green roof, you will need to increase your budget, since it’s more expensive than other types of roofing, but it will last twice as long and cut your energy bills by about 20%.

How much value does a roof terrace add?

Research has found that the addition of a roof terrace can typically add more than one-tenth to the value of a property – and this could rise to as much as a quarter in highly desired areas!Apr 28, 2021.

Does adding a roof deck add value?

But, according to Reeb, rooftop decks typically add about $30,000 to $50,000 in value, or about a 6% to 8% to the valuation of an average home. They also can move a home faster, said Reeb, up to 50% shorter time on market.

What can you do with a rooftop terrace?

A home or apartment that has a rooftop terrace can offer many possibilities, including an amazing view. There are plenty of different styles you can use to decorate your outdoor living space. Add some gardens, a fireplace, lounge furniture, and even a dining space.