A rooftop deck is fundamentally different to a ground-level deck and extends to the materials you should use. Due to the extreme weather exposure, including greater levels of sun, rain, and wind, you need to consider your choice of roof terrace products carefully.

But there’s a lot to think about. Factors such as cost, appearance, and practicality are all important – as are vital safety aspects such as fire regulations, wind uplift and weight loading.

In this article, we explore the most popular roof terrace surfacing options so that you can decide what’s best for your project.

1. Porcelain tiles

As the most popular form of paving for roof terraces, porcelain tiles are an obvious choice. They’re typically elevated on a pedestal and joist system, ensuring they’re adjustable to suit levels and falls.

Porcelain tiles are available in non-combustible materials, keeping your project within fire regulations. They’re available in a wide range of finishes and sizes, making them a highly adaptable roof terrace surface option that creates a pleasant aesthetic.

This option is great for maximising slip resistance too. Whilst concrete, and natural stone such as sandstone and granite are likely to grow moss and algae, porcelain tiles have a very low water absorption rate (0.04%) meaning moss and algae are less likely to grow.

Although porcelain tiles are widely used for roof terrace surfacing, incorrect installation can pose a serious risk to the building (and nearby members of the public). When loose laid on pedestals, the challenge of wind uplift can be extremely dangerous as well as damaging to surrounding surfaces.

At Raaft, our wide selection of porcelain tiles are used by landscape architects and contractors to turn standard spaces into remarkable places. They’re easily installed upon our Raaft Terrace System, and designed with the challenge of wind uplift in mind. Check out our range of porcelain tiles with brand new colours, sizes and styles to choose from.

Porcelain tiles

2. Porcelain decking

Like porcelain tiles, porcelain decking can also be installed with a pedestal and joist system, offering all the adjustability needed for flat surface.

They’re often used us a contrasting surface to paved areas and there are many decking profiles available. From sleek and modern porcelain decking, through to weathered and irregular finishes.

Porcelain decking can also be installed as class A fire-rated. As a fully non-combustible option, porcelain decking is a great choice for any roof terrace project.

At Raaft, our porcelain decking range can be selected alongside our fully modular decking system for the ultimate roof terrace solution. Partnered with aluminium joists, steel pedestals, bespoke fire-rated planters, roof trays and innovative fixing clips, you can create a reliable and safe roof top deck. Take a look at our Farrino Porcelain Decking for more information.

Porcelain decking

3. Artificial grass

Artificial grass is another option for your roof terrace surface. It’s often used in contrast with other surfaces and works great for play mounds. There are various ways of creating the require sub-structure, which is dependent on the application.

Whilst artificial grass can be used to add a refreshing touch to your roof terrace, it’s a plastic material. So even with the fire-retardant options out there, it will always be a combustible surface finish.

Artificial grass

Consult with the roof terrace specialists

At Raaft, our roof terrace products are engineered to work together so that you can build what’s right for your space. From the perfect decking and tile combinations, through to adjustable support systems and a diverse range of planters, we supply all you need for a flawless roof terrace space.

If you’re looking to create a roof terrace that your client loves, contact our friendly team at Raaft today. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have, whether that be general or related to your roof terrace surface.