If you’re lucky enough to have a rooftop patio or are considering adding one to your home, designing one that is both functional and stylish can be challenging. In this article, we’ll tell you what to expect and give you five design ideas to get you started.
Prerequisites for a Rooftop Patio
Before you get started on your rooftop patio design, there are a few things you need to take into account.
1. Can your rooftop handle the weight?
If you’re planning on adding furniture, a pergola, or anything else that will add weight to your rooftop patio, you need to make sure that it can handle the extra load. Check with a professional to be sure. If your rooftop needs to be reinforced, you may need to hire a roofing contractor Indiana to replace your roof or build a support system.
2. Does your rooftop have a flat area?
If you have a slanted rooftop, you won’t be able to enjoy a rooftop patio without a massive remodel. Even a portion of a flat area is acceptable, but you’ll need to make sure that the space is level so that you can safely put furniture and other items on it.
3. Make sure there is enough ventilation
A major problem that people run into with rooftop patios is that they can get very hot, making them unusable during the summer months. To combat this, make sure there is plenty of ventilation by adding fans or opening up the space to the outdoors.
4. Get a permit
If you live in an urban area, chances are you’ll need a permit to build a rooftop patio. Check with your local zoning office to find out what the requirements are.
5. Plan for maintenance
Rooftop patios can be difficult to maintain, so planning is critical. Make sure you have easy access to the space for cleaning and repairs, and consider using durable materials that will hold up to the elements. In selecting the right outdoor door mats for your patio, make sure to only buy ones that not only make your doorway look great but also ensure your safety.
Design Ideas for Your Rooftop Patio
1. Create an intimate space with furniture and privacy screens
If you’re looking to create a space for entertaining, consider adding furniture and privacy screens to your rooftop patio. This will give you the feeling of being in an outdoor room and will be more comfortable for your guests. A few great furniture and décor additions to your rooftop patio furniture might be:
- A sofa or sectional: Adding a sofa or sectional to your rooftop patio will create a comfortable seating area for you and your guests.
- Outdoor rugs: Rugs can help define the space and add comfort underfoot.
- Privacy screens: Screens can provide privacy from nosy neighbors and block out unwanted sunlight from the harsh summer sun.
- A coffee table: If you plan to make use of your rooftop patio for entertaining, a coffee table is a must. It’s the perfect place to set down drinks or appetizers.
You can also add TVs, heaters, and other amenities to make your space more comfortable and inviting.
2. Add a pergola or gazebo
A pergola is an outdoor structure that consists of four posts and a roof. Gazebos are similar but have a solid roof and can be enclosed. Adding a pergola or gazebo to your rooftop patio is a great way to create an intimate space while still being able to enjoy the views. These structures will also provide some much-needed shade that will make your space more comfortable during the hot summer months.
Some pergolas and gazebos cost as low as $500, and if you want to build one yourself, you can save some money on the installation costs. For fancy rooftop gazebos like the one pictured above, you’ll need to shell out thousands of dollars.
3. Incorporate an outdoor kitchen
If you love to entertain, an outdoor kitchen is a great addition to your rooftop patio. This will allow you to cook and serve food without having to go inside, giving your guests a place to congregate. Building an outdoor kitchen will require some planning and preparation. You’ll have to factor in the size of your space, the type of appliances you want to use, and how you’ll get water and power to the area. This buildout will definitely require roof replacements or updates so that everything is up to code and can connect to your kitchen appliances.
4. Add some green with planters and gardens
Adding greenery to your rooftop patio is a great way to create a more inviting and relaxing space. Especially if you plan to use your rooftop deck as a place to unwind, incorporating some plants can help achieve that goal. There are a few things to consider when adding plants to your rooftop patio:
- Make sure the planters you choose are big enough and have adequate drainage. Overflowing pots and poorly draining soil can cause serious damage to your roof.
- Choose plants that are drought-tolerant and can survive in high winds.
- Consider installing a drip irrigation system to help water your plants. This will save you time and effort and cut down on water waste.
You could even plant fruits and vegetables and turn your rooftop into a garden oasis.
5. Create a fun and relaxing space with a hot tub or spa
Who doesn’t love getting in a hot tub or spa after a long day? If you have the space, adding one of these luxurious items to your rooftop patio is a great way to make it feel like a private oasis. You’ll need to factor in the cost of the hot tub or spa itself, the installation costs, and the additional costs of ownership (cleaning, maintenance, and water usage). If you have the space and the budget, a hot tub or spa is a great addition to any rooftop patio.
Endnote
These are just a few ideas to get you started on transforming your outdoor space. With some creativity and elbow grease, you can turn your rooftop patio into the perfect place to relax and entertain guests. Consider investing from a wide selection of floor mats to protect your flooring from the daily wear and tear.
Thanks to dmgexteriors.com for consulting.
