Roof Top Deck Construction

First, you must make sure the roof is strong enough to support 55 lbs per square foot. Next, you will need to install a watertight EPMD rubber membrane over the top of the roof deck for protection against water infiltration in place of roofing materials. Then, you will install “sleepers” or flat 2x6s laid flat every 16” on top of the roof surface. This will provide the surface for you to attach the decking.
There are proprietary pedestal systems that provide a very stable, level and serviceable deck over a roof membrane, though, they are relatively expensive compared to conventional methods.
In whatever manner a deck is constructed over a roof, maintenance for cleaning and repairs of the membrane below is recommended. Deck “panels” should be constructed that can be lifted with minimal effort or damage. The roof below should be cleaned and inspected at whatever intervals is found necessary for each deck. A deck located under pine trees will need much more maintenance to clean out debris than a rooftop deck above a high-rise.
Flat roofs are prone to leaking even without decks because of design errors, improper materials and improper installation. Many times when roof decks are installed, they further damage roofs causing more severe leaking and drainage problems. Proper waterproofing for a roof deck involves installing an EPDM membrane and flashing around deck supports and rail penetrations. This is often accomplished using EPDM boots that fit over the openings. EPDM is a rubber like sheet used for waterproofing surfaces. Roofs should be sloped about 1/4" every 12" to shed water. Drainage is very important because pooling water can cause leaks.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
How to Install Flush Deck Headers & Beams
Flush beams are a great solution when space and clearance may be limited. Learn how to install deck headers and flush beams at Decks.com.
How to Use Shared Load Deck Support Posts
Learn how to support an upper and lower deck using one support post and a larger footing by bolting the lower deck into the side of the post.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Best Hidden Fasteners for Decking
Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Roof Top Deck Construction

First, you must make sure the roof is strong enough to support 55 lbs per square foot. Next, you will need to install a watertight EPMD rubber membrane over the top of the roof deck for protection against water infiltration in place of roofing materials. Then, you will install “sleepers” or flat 2x6s laid flat every 16” on top of the roof surface. This will provide the surface for you to attach the decking.
There are proprietary pedestal systems that provide a very stable, level and serviceable deck over a roof membrane, though, they are relatively expensive compared to conventional methods.
In whatever manner a deck is constructed over a roof, maintenance for cleaning and repairs of the membrane below is recommended. Deck “panels” should be constructed that can be lifted with minimal effort or damage. The roof below should be cleaned and inspected at whatever intervals is found necessary for each deck. A deck located under pine trees will need much more maintenance to clean out debris than a rooftop deck above a high-rise.
Flat roofs are prone to leaking even without decks because of design errors, improper materials and improper installation. Many times when roof decks are installed, they further damage roofs causing more severe leaking and drainage problems. Proper waterproofing for a roof deck involves installing an EPDM membrane and flashing around deck supports and rail penetrations. This is often accomplished using EPDM boots that fit over the openings. EPDM is a rubber like sheet used for waterproofing surfaces. Roofs should be sloped about 1/4" every 12" to shed water. Drainage is very important because pooling water can cause leaks.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Deck Floor Joists
Step-by-step instructions and tips on how to frame. Learn how to install treated wood joists and beams to build a strong deck.
Building a Flat Roof Deck
Occasionally, a project is presented where a deck will be built over a flat roof of a house or a garage...
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights