I don't want to hire people.
2007-09-28 11:00:00 · 7 answers · asked by me 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
There is allot to consider here before you start building. Will it support the weight? Will it meet local code? What condition is the roof you are building over? How will the roof be replaced when necessary? DO NOT screw through the roof as advised in another answer. How are you going to reseal the screws when the caulk goes bad. Never puncture a low slope roof with a screw or nail. I would look into using the existing roof as the deck before I built over it. IF the existing roof joists can support the additional load I would install a new roof and cover the roof with lightweight patio blocks and have a great look. The roof would need to be protected and some railings built but when it needs replacing it would be easy to get to. If you must build over the roof, again I would start with a new roof. Supporting the deck with columns/supports on the perimeter is a great idea and the way to go. On the new roof you can build elevated supports that your joists can rest on. These supports should be flashed according to the chosen roofing manufactures specifications. This will provide you with a new roof with no penetrations. Depending on the material chosen you should get 20 plus years life from a new low slope roof and probably longer if you protect it from the sun.
2007-10-02 08:24:02 · answer #1 · answered by Tony * 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'll agree to some of what answer number one states; and just add my two cents.
I'd probably check the level of the current roof also; but depending on the size and weight of the deck you intend; it won't hurt anything to have a modest grade of less than 1 inch for run off. I'd also elevate anything I put up there.
More important however; is the structure supporting the current roof/ versus what you intend to add. Again; without knowing the dimensions of that roof; I'd probably NOT UES IT to support more weight. I'd very likely use pilings/ beams/columns on the perimeter of that roof and support the deck that way.
One reason I suggest that can be analyzed by taking what answer 1 suggests; a 2 x 6; pressure treated plank; at whatever length you believe will be the largest for the deck; and pick it up. Then imagine that weight; multiplied by the number in/of every piece of lumber you'll have to use.
With no offense to you; I'd probably check code enforcement; if an agency even exists; governing your notion of construction.
Not wanting to hire people is the essence of why this category exists; and hopefully everyone who attempts any construction; either has some skills or acquires them.
Building a deck is certainly not Brain surgery; but it should be offered some of the peripheral considerations, and possible consequences.
Steven Wolf
AKA "The Deck Doc"
2007-09-28 11:37:50 · answer #2 · answered by DIY Doc 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
As usual Steven makes some great points. I would totally agree that it is imperative that you check the current roof structure to determine if it will support what size deck you are planning. You could easily end up with a major disaster if you're not careful. The other consideration is resale. While you may like it consider what it will do to the value of the house and the "curb appeal" if that is an issue.
Ditto with Steve on the city/county building permit issue. You will probably need a permit for this. Check with your city building department.
Now..... good luck and have fun!
2007-09-28 13:32:24 · answer #3 · answered by Steve in NC 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This Site Might Help You.
RE:
How do I build a roof deck on my flat roof?
I don't want to hire people.
2015-08-20 07:58:45 · answer #4 · answered by Zora 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Make sure that the roof can take the load of the decking and of the people and furniture you will be putting up there or you will have a verrrry expensive problem.
2007-09-28 18:45:54 · answer #5 · answered by Tellin' U Da Truth! 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You will want to elevate the deck off the existing flat roof to ensure it is perfectly level. Most flat roofs have an imperceptible slope to drain water. Use 2X4s or 2X6s on edge as floor joists every 24 inches. Shim them with wedges to get your level and anchor them to the roof with galvonized straps. SEAL THE SCREW HOLES. Run 2X6 planks across the joists spacing them about a half inch apart.
Voila!!!
DECK!!!
2007-09-28 11:10:04 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
1
2017-01-25 00:16:52 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋