What Makes a Good Rooftop Deck?

Question

Hi Ken,

I have a question: would you happen to have a picture of what a good roof deck looks like? One that you can properly assess?

We really want a place with a rooftop deck, but we can't tell a make-shift bad one, from a make-shift good one.

Thanks, Joe

Answer

Hello Joe,

Thank you for your email.

What you're asking is way too subjective and open to a universe of interpretation. So the short answer is no. But I can provide you with some information regarding what to consider.

Roof Structure

First and foremost, the underlying roof structure must be capable of supporting the deck's weight. This should be determined by a qualified structural engineer. Where necessary, your design/build firm should be able to provide this determination/service, as well as ensuring the deck and its attendant components comply with local municipal building codes.

Traditional Wooden Lumber Decks

Traditional wood lumber decks, because of material cost, are the most common. These can be constructed with pergolas, terraces, etc. to enhance their function and aesthetic. Generally, traditional wood lumber decks are not modular in design.

A Basic Wooden Rooftop Deck

Walking Surface

Ideally, the walking surface should be modular so that it can be removed to provide access to the underlying roof for assessment, maintenance, and repair.

As far as materials go, it can be anything. Modular deck systems are constructed of wood, concrete or other masonry, composite materials, etc. These are aesthetic choices that can be combined to create differing, delineated areas. Aside from being modular, the only other criteria should be weather resistance and maintenance requirements. Modular deck systems generally are designed to be and utilize materials that are weather resistant.

A Modular Tile Deck System

A Modular Wooden Deck System

Build-Out/Design

Your deck design is limited only by your imagination, your wallet, municipal building code, and the structural capacity of the underlying roof structure. This is where a qualified design-build firm can help.

A Rooftop Deck Using Multiple Walking Surfaces

Chicago has a number of quality rooftop deck design/build firms. Their websites are a great starting point for design ideas. I would start here:

Chicago Roof Top Deck Designers

I hope this helps. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions.

Kind regards, Ken

Ken Whitelaw,

Chicago Building Inspections, Inc.

http://inspectingchicago.com

ken@inspectingchicago.com

312-INSPECT (467.7328)

Mobile: 773.350.2325

...where I'm at, 11/20/2020

Greetings fellow Earthlings,

To state the obvious, what we've been dealt with vis-à-vis the current political environment goes way beyond any party line. What we've experienced is not unlike the beginnings of single-minded, abusive governing by a wannabe despot. 

There are people who will always agree with Trump, et al., and his incendiary rhetoric. ...wanting nothing more than the eradication of anything they perceive as un-American, including but not limited to everything Obama, non-white people, personal choice, truth, science, the Golden Rule, etc. 

These subhumans will not disappear but will once again go underground, waiting for the next Hitler-like wannabe to once again prey on human insecurity, fomenting hatred and violence against what most of us know in our hearts to be good, true, and right.

I recently read a thought by someone that maybe DJT will leave for Florida for the holidays and never come back to the WH.

That's what I want for Christmas.

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