These days, flat roofs aren’t just a way to cut down on construction costs and commercial space – they’re a well-built, creative part of many homes, cottages and office buildings. Whether you have a section of flat roof on your house or commercial building, there are plenty of design ideas that will make it more aesthetically appealing – not to mention functional. Are you envisioning a patio space, or a living roof? Maybe the ultimate roof-top barbeque party? It’s all possible with a well-built, well-maintained flat roof. Here are just a few design ideas to help you put together the best flat roof space possible.
Sod Insulation
The living roof, or green roof, provides environmentally-friendly insulation to the space below the flat roof. Unlike pitched roofs, a modern flat roof does not leave a cavity between the upper layers and the living space underneath. In areas where this could lead to increased cold temperatures in the winter, sod insulation is a perfect, inexpensive and long-lasting solution. Not only does it help hold in the warmth of your building, sod also efficiently deals with excess rainwater.
Residential Decking
Flat roofing at home can be used very effectively as decking. To make this work, all you need to do is construct a railing around the perimeter of the roof, and add a doorway from the nearest room. This process can turn any bit of flat roof, large or small, into a useful and enjoyable outdoor space. Homes with many levels of roofing can often support small decks for each bedroom, or even a wraparound balcony. Private deck space not only makes the inhabitants of your house happy; it raises the value of your home.
Employee Common Space
In Canada, commercial buildings usually feature a flat roof. These make it simpler to add more levels to the building, and save precious space in the commercial sections of town. Unfortunately, this useable roof space is rarely exploited by its occupants. It’s quite simple to take your office rooftop and turn it into a fantastic employee common space – all you need is a railing, some healthy potted plants, comfortable chairs and a table. Voila, a spacious and fresh break room to use on sunny days, instead of hiding out in the staff bathroom!
Rooftop Garden
The rooftop garden is a great way to draw in the beauty of nature, keep a vegetable, herb or flower garden, and promote sustainability. Just like a normal garden, you can grow whatever you like so long as there is enough root space, healthy soil, sun and water. Since these are outdoor plants, it’s best to use varieties that thrive in your local climate from season to season. Most vegetables and flowers will last one or two seasons before needed to be replaced. On the other hand, grasses, herbs and perennial plants will last longer.
Party Area
At home or at the office, the roof can be a great place to host a party on beautiful summer days. Like the living room of your home, the design of the space is totally up to you. Consider adding a barbeque, picnic tables and some greenery to make the space appealing and user-friendly. Bring out a wireless speaker to add music to the party, and a cooler for the drinks. Have kids attending? A rooftop swing-set can keep them happy while the adults chat.
Image from Wikipedia.