White icon of a roof deck.

Roof Decks

Choosing the right roof deck contractors is crucial to bringing your vision to life—especially in a fast-paced city like NYC. Our approach begins with a thorough site assessment, followed by a customized plan that takes local codes and your unique preferences into account. Thanks to our comprehensive process, you can feel confident knowing your roof deck will meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Custom roof deck built by contractors in NYC.

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Roof Deck Solutions for Residential & Commercial Spaces

We specialize in designing and constructing roof decks for both residential and commercial properties, including single-family homes, brownstones, condo buildings, and shared or common areas in larger buildings. We also work on roof decks for bars and restaurants, creating functional and stylish spaces to suit a variety of needs.

Materials & Construction

Your roof deck can be built using a variety of materials that fit your design preferences and structural needs, including:

  • Tiles: We offer concrete, porcelain, and hardwood tiles, all installed using an adjustable pedestal system. Concrete tiles are a budget-friendly option with limited color choices, while porcelain tiles provide a higher-end look with various textures, colors, and sizes.
  • Composite Decking: TimberTech’s Vintage Collection is the only fire-resistant composite decking suitable for roof deck installations, offering durability and modern style.
  • Synthetic Turf: For a unique look, synthetic turf can be installed using a pedestal system, providing a lush, walkable surface that brings greenery to your rooftop space.
Terrace featuring concrete pavers and sleek modern design by Vandeck Builders.

Design Flexibility & Customization

We pride ourselves on the flexibility and design options we offer for rooftop decks. Our designs are tailored to your needs, incorporating various materials, railing systems, lighting, and even landscaping. Our team will guide you through the available choices and help you select the best options for your space, ensuring that your roof deck meets both your functional and aesthetic goals.

Structural Integrity & Compliance

To ensure the safety and longevity of your rooftop deck, we work closely with engineers and architects. We take into account factors such as snow loads, wind speeds, building age, and material weight to make sure your rooftop deck is structurally sound. We also adhere to NYC building codes, which require non-combustible materials for rooftop decks, or limit the use of combustible materials to less than 20% of the roof area.

Waterproofing & Drainage

Proper drainage and waterproofing are critical for rooftop decks. Our designs include easy access to drains, vents, and the roof structure for maintenance and inspection. This ensures that your deck is long-lasting and functional, without compromising the roof beneath it

Aerial view of rooftop deck with large porcelain pavers installed by Vandeck Builders.

Benefits of Rooftop Decks

  • Protects the Roofing Membrane: A rooftop deck provides an extra layer of protection from weather elements, foot traffic, and sunlight, extending the life of your roof.
  • Improves Insulation: The deck adds an extra layer of insulation, improving the energy efficiency of the building.
  • Increases Property Value: A well-designed roof deck can increase the property’s value and make it more appealing to potential buyers or tenants.
  • Provides Extra Usable Space: By creating a level surface, rooftop decks transform otherwise sloped roofs into functional areas for outdoor furniture, lounging, or entertaining.
  • Offers Unmatched Views: Enjoy unparalleled views of the city skyline, making your rooftop a standout feature of the property.

Our Service Areas

We proudly serve the following areas:

  • Manhattan: Upper West Side, Chelsea, West Village, Upper East Side, Midtown, Downtown
  • Brooklyn: Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Park Slope, Prospect Heights, Bedstuy, Bushwick
  • Queens: Long Island City, Middle Village, Whitestone, Little Neck, Bayside, Hillcrest, Queens Village
Modern rooftop deck with glass railing and beige porcelain pavers in an urban setting.

Frequently asked questions

Check out our FAQ section for answers to common questions about our services, techniques, and options.

Can pergolas be installed on rooftop decks?

Yes, pergolas can be installed on rooftop decks when properly planned. Design considerations include wind exposure, attachment method, structural capacity, and building approvals.

Can outdoor kitchens be installed on rooftops?

Yes, outdoor kitchens can be installed on rooftops, subject to building rules and code requirements. Design typically considers weight limits, fire safety, ventilation, and utilities such as gas, water, and electrical connections.

Do rooftop decks in NYC require permits?

Most rooftop deck projects in NYC require permits, particularly when new structures are built, access is modified, or loads are introduced. Some surface-level or repair work may not require filings, but requirements depend on the specific scope and building classification and are confirmed during planning.

When is a structural engineer required?

A structural engineer is typically required when loads change, framing is modified, or existing conditions require formal verification. This determination is made during the design phase based on scope and building conditions.

Are rooftop decks designed for snow loads?

Yes, structural calculations account for applicable live loads including snow.

What safety measures are taken on active rooftops?

Safety measures may include temporary guardrails, perimeter protection, controlled access zones, and site-specific precautions based on conditions and scope. Safety requirements are reviewed and implemented throughout the project.

How long does a typical rooftop project take?

Project duration varies by scope and complexity. Most rooftop projects take several weeks to complete once construction begins, after planning and approvals.

Are the materials you use fire-rated for rooftop applications?

Yes. We select systems and materials that meet applicable fire-rating and rooftop-use requirements. Final material selection depends on building conditions, code requirements, and approved design.

What types of pavers do you recommend for rooftop decks?

For rooftop decks, we typically recommend porcelain pavers or fire-rated ipe pavers installed on pedestal systems. Key considerations include slip resistance, thickness, weight, and compatibility with the roof assembly.

What makes a railing system code-compliant for NYC?

NYC code-compliant railing systems generally require a minimum height of 42 inches, must resist a 200-pound load, and limit openings to no more than 4 inches. Additional requirements may apply based on building type, location, and access conditions.

Are planters designed for rooftop load limits?

Yes. Planters installed on rooftops are designed with weight, drainage, and soil volume in mind. Load limits are reviewed during design to ensure compliance with structural requirements.

What does grandfathered status mean for an existing deck?

Grandfathered status means an existing deck was legally built under previous codes and is allowed to remain as is. Significant modifications or rebuilding can trigger the requirement to meet current building and zoning regulations.

How are materials transported to rooftops or upper floors?

Materials are typically transported using elevators, stairs, or cranes, depending on building conditions and rules. The method is planned in advance and coordinated before work begins.

How are materials transported to rooftops or upper floors?

Materials are typically transported using elevators, stairs, or cranes, depending on building conditions and rules. The method is planned in advance and coordinated before work begins.

What does grandfathered status mean for an existing deck?

Grandfathered status means an existing deck was legally built under previous codes and is allowed to remain as is. Significant modifications or rebuilding can trigger the requirement to meet current building and zoning regulations.

Are planters designed for rooftop load limits?

Yes. Planters installed on rooftops are designed with weight, drainage, and soil volume in mind. Load limits are reviewed during design to ensure compliance with structural requirements.

What makes a railing system code-compliant for NYC?

NYC code-compliant railing systems generally require a minimum height of 42 inches, must resist a 200-pound load, and limit openings to no more than 4 inches. Additional requirements may apply based on building type, location, and access conditions.

What types of pavers do you recommend for rooftop decks?

For rooftop decks, we typically recommend porcelain pavers or fire-rated ipe pavers installed on pedestal systems. Key considerations include slip resistance, thickness, weight, and compatibility with the roof assembly.

Are the materials you use fire-rated for rooftop applications?

Yes. We select systems and materials that meet applicable fire-rating and rooftop-use requirements. Final material selection depends on building conditions, code requirements, and approved design.

How long does a typical rooftop project take?

Project duration varies by scope and complexity. Most rooftop projects take several weeks to complete once construction begins, after planning and approvals.

What safety measures are taken on active rooftops?

Safety measures may include temporary guardrails, perimeter protection, controlled access zones, and site-specific precautions based on conditions and scope. Safety requirements are reviewed and implemented throughout the project.

Are rooftop decks designed for snow loads?

Yes, structural calculations account for applicable live loads including snow.

When is a structural engineer required?

A structural engineer is typically required when loads change, framing is modified, or existing conditions require formal verification. This determination is made during the design phase based on scope and building conditions.

Can outdoor kitchens be installed on rooftops?

Yes, outdoor kitchens can be installed on rooftops, subject to building rules and code requirements. Design typically considers weight limits, fire safety, ventilation, and utilities such as gas, water, and electrical connections.

Can pergolas be installed on rooftop decks?

Yes, pergolas can be installed on rooftop decks when properly planned. Design considerations include wind exposure, attachment method, structural capacity, and building approvals.

Do rooftop decks in NYC require permits?

Most rooftop deck projects in NYC require permits, particularly when new structures are built, access is modified, or loads are introduced. Some surface-level or repair work may not require filings, but requirements depend on the specific scope and building classification and are confirmed during planning.