When you have nowhere to create outdoor living space, look up! Rooftops are a great place to add space and value to your home or amenities to multi-family buildings like condos or apartments. Since green space is growing more scarce, converting your rooftop into a usable and enjoyable living space is both a joy and a worthwhile investment.
Rooftop environments are often inconvenient to maintain, and so many are turning to artificial turf. And why not? They stay green all year round and require no cutting. The turf also acts as a noise dampener, something those living below are sure to appreciate.
Creating a turf deck on your rooftop is easier than you might think, but there are a few things to consider before getting started to ensure the best possible results.
Rooftop Damage – The rooftop should be thoroughly inspected for any existing damage or rot. Building on top of damage is never a good idea and will usually make matters worse. Eventually, rot and damage lead to leaks, which will be much more difficult to address once you’ve constructed a deck over the top. Ensure your roof is in excellent condition before beginning your artificial turf rooftop deck.
Drainage – A roof receives a lot of rain, and drainage needs to be factored into your plans. Once you are confident that your roof is in excellent condition, you’ll want to verify that drainage is built in. This may involve a drain or a slope leading to a drainage system. Most rooftops are designed with water in mind and will have enough drainage for your project.
Method of Installation – Typically, rooftop installations are constructed with costly wood framing, a method that can damage expensive roofing systems. However, there are alternatives. Consider using a pedestal system, which not only makes your project easier and faster to build, but these systems also do not damage roofing membranes. Pedestal systems offer a variety of other benefits, too – including easy drainage and design flexibility. They can provide access to what lies below when you need to perform inspections or repairs.
Sound – While many surfaces like artificial turf provide a thin layer of noise-dampening protection, you may want to bring in a geotextile that is specifically designed for this purpose. A product like StoneBase can provide the soundproofing you want while allowing water to drain through.
Furniture and Other Items – When using an artificial turf surface on your rooftop deck, you’ll deal with a handful of issues that are unique to this material. Artificial grass can flatten over time, so you’ll want to plan your furniture placement and other heavy items carefully. Artificial turf is easy to clean with a hose, so you may want to ensure one is installed on your rooftop. You’ll also want to avoid things like barbeques or a firepit, as sparks will quickly melt artificial turf.
An easy solution to these problems is a mixed-media surface. Enjoy the low-maintenance green synthetic turf, but install a more durable surface like porcelain tiles in high-traffic areas, near the bbq or under furniture.
As cities grow more dense, yards smaller and more people move into high-rises, the idea of creating a peaceful rooftop environment is becoming more popular. Building an artificial green roof will deliver the benefits you seek without additional maintenance. If you’re looking for more great decking ideas that will save you time, labour and money, visit Canada’s decking experts, Stone Deck Innovations.