Roof Decking

Put a Deck on the Roof

Outdoor living is one of the new lifestyle trends in this millennium. As with most of the millennial trends, this one is based on cutting-edge technology, because when people indulge in outdoor living, it’s the same kind of living they do indoors. We’re not talking tents and campfires, here.

The new technology involved in the outdoor living trend is based upon the materials used in building, decorating, and maintaining a deck. The basic building results include decking of all kinds: waterproof, backyard, garden, pool decking, and roof decking.

Yes, Roof Decking

When there is no “outdoor” to accommodate the desire for outdoor living, some look to the roof. A home in the city, for instance, may have no yard or a yard too small for a really spectacular deck but have the required flat roof on the house or garage. A deck on the roof can have all of the qualities of a great backyard deck but with a few special requirements.

First and foremost, a deck covering a roof has to take into consideration the needs of the structure below it. A roof protects that structure from the elements so the roof decking has to help keep the roof waterproof. Waterproof materials are, of course, basic to all decks, but roof decking has to consider the roof’s runoff system. Even a flat roof needs a slight incline for rain runoff. The deck can be built along an incline or on pads to support the roof decking evenly while leaving some drainage to allow rainwater to run through to the roof for drainage.

Planning a Roof Deck

The planning of a roof deck must take into account the weight that the roof was built to safely hold . Reinforcement of the structure may be needed, but lightweight roof decking is a good alternative. That’s part of the technology aspect. Plastic and vinyl materials can mimic the look of wood, stone, tile or any other substance with a fraction of the weight, while being almost indestructible. 

Most lines of roof decking have matching railings, seating, and planters to complete the deck of your dreams. It should also be UV protected to prevent fading and degrading in the sunlight.

Consult a Contractor for Installation of Your Roof Deck

Besides the roof decking, modern technology offers outdoor fabrics, lighting, bars, grills, tableware, and furniture that rivals the finest indoor trends. While many outdoor decks are candidates for the do-it-yourself crowd, its more technical nature means a roof decking project would benefit from a consultation with a contractor.