ACCESSORIES & SUPPLIES
PROTECTIVE SLIP SHEETS
To safeguard the roof membrane, each load-bearing pedestal should be installed over a protective slip sheet. Architects often specify such a slip sheet or scuff pad, cut from roof membrane material. The additional layer helps to reconcile irregularities in the roof surface caused by framing transitions, mechanical anchors, seams or folds in the membrane, or debris caught beneath the membrane. Such irregularities beneath a load-bearing pedestal can place excessive stress on small points in the membrane sheeting, posing risk of premature failure of the membrane in that location. The slip sheet eases that stress considerably.
EPDM rubber (45 or 60 mil thickness) is the ideal material for protective slip sheets. EPDM is pliable and provides excellent grip, whereas pieces of TPO or PVC membranes slip and slide easily. The thin rubber serves several other useful purposes:
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Apply multiple layers to micro-adjust the elevation of low-height stacked pedestals (that lack threaded adjustability).
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Use as shims to compensate for slope and level pedestals.
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Create "build up" to relieve stress points in membrane beneath pedestals.
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As a protective barrier or padding over membrane wherever adhesives, mortar, wood, masonry or hardware may be needed to resolve non-ordinary circumstances beneath the deck surface.
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Lay down as a large "drop cloth" to protect the membrane beneath cutting stations or staging areas on the roof.
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EPDM is a versatile material that I've used extensively on all my deck projects. Trouble is, it can be difficult to source in small quantities. I supply 9"x9" protective slip sheets, narrower shim pieces, and larger sheets of any size.
UTILITY MATTING
Some rooftop areas may not merit the expensive investment of a beautiful pedestal deck. But if the area receives frequent traffic, then the roof demands some sort of protection.
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A variety of inexpensive 12"x12" deck tiles are available on the market, but most of them are not adequately gentle on the roof membrane. The tiles lie flat on the roof, click together, and are usually quite rigid, which translates to a clacking and rocking feel underfoot. The base is usually a structural grid of narrow plastic pieces that apply excessively harsh load-bearing pressure points that can potentially damage the roof membrane. Some of the wood tile products don't hold up well under sun and weather, soon warp, and begin breaking apart. As they disintegrate, they scatter sharp plastic shards beneath the walking surface.
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I supply a good quality, inexpensive alternative tile made of PVC that is gentle on the roof, doesn't rock or break down, and is very durable. It comes in several colors and is very easy to install.
DECK SUPPORT ACCESSORIES
Pedestal supports alone may not serve adequately around some scenarios encountered on a rooftop. The surface paver grid generally dictates the location of each pedestal, but some conditions don't allow the pedestal to sit in that particular spot. This occurs around drains, vent pipes, irregular perimeter features, utility fixtures and lines, steps, or transitions between different surface materials. Innovative solutions involve a combination of pedestals and alternative materials to provide structural support for the decking pavers.
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The exact materials needed vary according to particular rooftop conditions and the decking material. I can make recommendations for the best materials and hardware to resolve a given obstacle. I am able to supply some of these materials myself and can advise how to obtain others.
PLANTERS & BENCHES
Planter boxes allow for contained garden beds that add greenery and structure to the rooftop environment. Seating benches also provide a sense of order as well as function. They are elements of design and beauty that can rest atop of the decking or be more integrated into the deck design. The only structural considerations are around irrigation, drainage and making sure to not over-weight the deck or roof structure beneath heavy planters.
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Rooftop planters and benches come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Powder coated aluminum, fiberglass and hardwood cubes are beautiful and hold up well over many years. Quality products are pricey and there are some key design considerations to keep the costs down. I can help guide your design choices to stay within your budget.
ROOFTOP DECKING
DONE RIGHT
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