There are plenty of reasons to love a flat roof. Stylish, versatile, environmentally-friendly, and easy to repair, a flat roof provides major benefits to homeowners.
However, for those living in large cities where space is at a premium, flat roofs have another benefit as well. You may modify them to expand your living space through the addition of a deck. With the temperatures rising and summer on the way, many homeowners with flat roofs are starting to set up their own private pieces of paradise high above the street.
But if you are preparing to have a temporary deck installed, or want to have a floating deck built over the roof itself, there are a few things you need to know if you want to make sure your summer getaway doesn’t compromise the structural integrity of your home.
Easy Tips for a Smooth Flat Roof Deck Transformation
Before you do anything, book an inspection.
Though flat roofs are easier to maintain than pitched roofs, they also require more maintenance, depending on what style of roof it is. Punctures happen in membranes, seams tear open, and caulking wears away. So, before you install a deck, ensure that the underlying roof materials are in good condition.
The best way is to call a flat roofing company that offers residential roof repair services for your type of roof. Experts inspect for damage and signs of aging, and patch or replace any parts of the roof that are reaching the end of their life.
Learn what type of deck is best.
Once you determine that the roof is in good shape, it’s time to start exploring your options. There are many different ways to build a flat roof deck, and which style you go for will depend on your budget and the architectural design of your home.
Generally, there are three categories of roof deck appropriate for most homes:
- Permanent decks anchored to the house and meant to remain in place year-round
- Floating decks supported by “sleeper” rafters that sit on top of the roof but are not anchored in place
- Temporary decks made from interlocking tiles designed to protect the roofing membrane from foot traffic during summer
If you opt for a more permanent deck, you will want to check local zoning regulations and building codes to make sure your plans don’t violate any by-laws and are safe to move forward with. You will also need to find out whether your home can handle the extra weight.
In conclusion.
A flat roof deck can be a wonderful addition to any home, and if you choose to have a permanent deck installed, it can significantly increase the value of your property. But if you want to save time, trouble, and money down the road, call a local flat roofing company to make sure your roof is in good condition before you start drawing up any big plans.
If you have any questions or suggestions, we always love to hear from you in the comments below. Also below are links that will take you to more fantastic articles about ALL things DESIGN for your home or business.
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About the Author: Ashley Edwards
