Roof Deck Materials?
We are finally ready to do our roof deck. But we are having trouble deciding on materials. Does anyone have recommendations for railings (that go with a traditional brownstone aesthetic) and decking material. We have already put in all the structural supports. We also like the idea of using planters as railings, but we aren’t…
We are finally ready to do our roof deck. But we are having trouble deciding on materials. Does anyone have recommendations for railings (that go with a traditional brownstone aesthetic) and decking material. We have already put in all the structural supports. We also like the idea of using planters as railings, but we aren’t sure they will pass the BD inspections. Does anyone have some pictures they can share with us. And yes, we know it won’t be cheap. Thanks
Ipe deck are the least troublesome wood decks to maintain. never need staining, rot proof for 100 years, never need any protective coating, fire resistant can be stained clear or use a special formulated stain which doesn’t cover the grains
Thanks everyone. Hookgirl, I would love to see some photos. Also, grand army, do you have any photos of your friends trex deck with integrated planters. We do have access, there is actually a room on the roof and we already have water up there. I just want to design a deck that will look good and last. I know trex is expensive but the reason I have always discounted it is because I was concerned it would look “fake.” But I think the newer versions are pretty nice. I have also heard IPE is hard to take care of. Can one use cedar and just let it weather and age?
Thanks again for the help.
In addition to budget and taste, practicality should play a major role in your choice of materials. Roof decks often have less than ideal access, and doing things like power washing a deck on top of your roof may not be good idea. We used ipe for the deck off our parlor floor but, as beautiful as it is, it’s not maintenance free. Friends used Trex which was craned onto the roof. It’s totally good looking — especially since they got a good design that includes integral planters etc.
If you want high end materials, the wood you should go with is IPE. If you want recycled materials, the trex brasilia line is good. I don’t know why it would be an issue to create your parapet at 42″ with planters built into them. Think of it as a wall with a recess. However, there may be restrictions of having airflow etc, where openings in the fence are necessary (search DOB- use search term: ‘parapet’). Your expeditor should be able to find this info for you.
I have some dwgs somewhere of the planter wall detail. I was going to do it myself over existing mini-parapets on my terrace.
Let me know if you’d like any info, and I’ll post my email address.
If your in the vicinity of 7th St. & 6th Ave. have a look at the corner house above the store. Possibly it may give you ideas?
Railings? 42″ high. Planters as railings? I doubt it. But I’m not an expert.