A rooftop deck is fundamentally different than a ground-level deck, and that extends to the materials you should use. Because of the extreme sun and weather exposure a rooftop deck in  Maryland and northern Virginia, has to endure, you and your design and build team will need to carefully think through exactly what you want to use in order to receive the best aesthetics, price point, and longevity.

5 Possible Materials for Your Rooftop Deck or Rooftop Deck Replacement

1. Pressure-Treated Decking

   One common and cost-effective product that people gravitate toward with rooftop projects is pressure-treated wood. Although it will require frequent maintenance due to the level of exposure it must sustain, this type of wood is generally up to the task.

2. Steel

   If your budget allows for it, upgrading from pressure-treated decking to steel can offer many benefits. For one, having a steel deck frame helps ensure you aren’t replacing your frame before your decking boards, and the added strength and durability of the material provide peace of mind, which can be especially invaluable on a rooftop deck. Look into Evolution, by Fortress Building Products, for an industry-leading all-steel deck solution.

3. Hardwood

   Choosing hardwood will mean more up-front cost—as compared to pressure-treated decking. While more durable and resistant to the extreme temperature and weather fluctuations a rooftop deck must endure, it will still require frequent maintenance (such as staining) to keep it looking pristine.

4. Porcelain Pavers

   Porcelain is an incredibly durable, lightweight, and low-maintenance option for any deck. The variety of aesthetic choices also ensures it complements or matches any existing design scheme. The reduced weight, in particular, makes it ideal for rooftop decks because of the minimal strain it places on the structure. Archatrak is one the leading names in this industry. If you’re interested in learning more about this material, check out these top 8 benefits of Archatrak deck tiles.

   Mbrico is another popular brand of porcelain deck tiles. They're a solid rooftop decking option that offers a host of benefits, including strength, durability, and integration with ProLine radiant heat systems.

5. Synthetic Turf of Synthetic Grass

   People will often build rooftop decks in urban areas where there isn’t a lot of extra space to build outward. This means people are sometimes looking for these rooftop structures to serve as small green spaces in the midst of city life. In those cases, some people choose to add synthetic turf or synthetic grass. Some even convert the area into a small putting green. In terms of the construction plan, these structures are built just like decks. There’s a substrate base, and the synthetic material is then placed on top of that.

3 Rooftop Decking Materials to Avoid