Having a rooftop space in your home is one of the best decisions you can make. Not only will it significantly add character to your home, but it will also increase the value of your home should you decide to sell it later on. However, choosing a rooftop space design should not be done haphazardly. Several factors should be considered to make sure that you are getting your money’ worth. Here are some tips to help you choose the best rooftop design:
1. Know the Purpose
Before you can commit to a rooftop design, you must first identify how you want to use your rooftop. Will you use it for a rooftop garden? Are you planning to add more rooms, or do you plan to place your gym there? The primary purpose of your room will dictate how you will design your rooftop. If you plan to use it as your balcony garden, you may want to add a trellis or windbreakers to ensure that your plants will remain safe from strong winds. If you plan to add a room or place your gym equipment there, you have to factor in the load of the additional weight.
2. Check your Structure’s Foundation
According to ACME Roofing, if you have an existing home and plan to add a rooftop space, your design should also be based on whether your building can accommodate the additional weight of the rooftop and its structure. If the foundation can only accommodate limited weight, you may have to forgo installing a roofing system as it can add more weight to your foundation, which can be a safety hazard. If you have enough budget, you may also consider reinforcing your home’s foundation to accommodate the additional weight.
3. Factor in Comfort
When designing your rooftop, you should also factor in your comfort while you are there. If you have an open rooftop design, make sure that your area does not receive too much sunlight because it can be useless if you can’t stay there during hot seasons. Better yet, you can install some roofing that offers shade. Placing comfortable seats can also make your rooftop highly usable. It would be nice to have a separate powder room, so you and your guests don’t have to constantly go up and down your house when they need to use the bathroom. In some rooftop designs, a small kitchen may also be useful for families who love entertaining their guests.
4. Consider Safety
Rooftops are always going to be a hazard, which is why it is essential to factor in safety. Your railings or parapet should be at least four feet in height so no one can easily topple over the building while staying on the rooftop. Installing rooftop grills can also provide additional safety, particularly if you have small children at home. As much as possible, do not place furniture near the railings to prevent accidents.
5. Add a Privacy Fence
If you live in an urban area where homes are typically adjacent to each other, it will be a wise design decision to add privacy fences for your rooftop. You can get creative by using natural elements by adding tall bamboo plants. Not only will it keep you safe from peering eyes, but it will also add a unique character to your rooftop. If it is not possible, you can use thin bamboo sticks as an alternative.
Designing a rooftop space can be tricky because you have to consider a lot of things. However, you can address this efficiently by working with professionals well-versed in rooftop designs and architecture. Take their advice, and you’ll realize how decorating your home can be a fun activity.
