A Roof Terrace on Your Extension: The Rules, Costs, and Inspiration for Homes in Rotterdam

A terrace on the flat roof of a house, garage, or bathhouse is original, stylish, and practical. In this article, we explain the rules for designing a roof terrace, what the upper terrace could look like in terms of design, and how to furnish it properly. Read on for more information.

Design

An extension with a roof terrace can only be built if the roof was originally designed to be flat. The design of a flat roof follows its own specific rules. It differs from a pitched roof not only in shape, but also in the type of construction. In addition, a flat roof must be serviceable (inversion), i.e. designed for higher loads.

The base of a flat roof is made of the same material as the floorboards. This can be:

• corrugated sheet metal with metal beams;

• monolithic reinforced concrete floor;

• prefabricated reinforced concrete slabs.

  
  

Unlike intermediate floors, a flat roof is supplemented with insulation and waterproofing, as well as a vapor barrier and a pressure layer. A flat roof must have a minimum slope of only 1-2 percent. This is necessary for effective drainage of sedimentary water.

Flooring

Suitable flooring must be laid on the base of a flat roof to divide the working area. It must be moisture-resistant, resistant to temperature fluctuations, and exposure to direct sunlight. At the same time, its external characteristics must correspond to the planned design.

There are a number of materials that meet the above requirements. The floor of a roof terrace extension can consist of:

• composite materials;

• rubber-containing coating;

• crushed stone;

• high-quality and well-processed wood;

• artificial grass or live grass;

• natural stone;

• pebbles;

• ceramic tiles.

  
  

Decking is very popular among modern homeowners. It is made of durable, long-lasting wood, easy to install, and fits well into any design. But nowadays, composite materials are replacing planks. Composite decking is made by combining wood and composites. It looks like a natural plank but is more resistant to external factors. In addition, installation is even easier and faster.

Roof installation

The permitted roof terrace in Rotterdam can remain completely open. However, it is advisable to close off at least part of the space from the sun and precipitation. With the help of a light canopy and glass fences, you can build a full-fledged veranda on the roof, which is suitable for use all year round and in all weather conditions.

Conclusion

A terrace on the roof of a house or other building on the site is an original, comfortable, and beautiful recreation area that does not take up space. The cost of a roof terrace depends on what exactly you want to do. It is not difficult to make such a terrace aesthetically appealing and safe; various modern materials and technologies exist for this purpose. However, the design and construction of an exploited platform on a flat roof must be carried out with special care, taking into account all technical rules and regulations!