Roofing Design For Terraces
3 min read
Prioritize the purpose of your rooftop terrace: will it serve as an area for hosting guests or simply relaxing? Determining its purpose can help guide the selection of appropriate design elements.
Textile roof terraces provide an extremely flexible roofing option. Simply take down during sunny weather and then wash it afterwards – not forgetting their unique bolted-on poles which feature wall bolting rather than floor bolts for even more convenience!
1. Pergola
Solid pergola roofs make an excellent addition to a terrace, as they create a cozy ambiance while shielding you from rain, wind and intense sunlight. Furthermore, this roofing option enhances architectural integrity of structures while adding visual interest through lush climbing plants that adorn its edges.
Aluminum and metal roofing materials are popular options for creating pergolas as they combine strength, resilience and a high natural light transmission rate. A pergola roof provides the ideal solution for contemporary patio designs as its design can easily be modified in terms of color, style and shape to best complement outdoor living areas.
By adding lighting to your pergola, it becomes an inviting nighttime haven that is ideal for relaxing, celebrating and dining. LED strip lighting accentuates intricate roof details while providing a vibrant ambience that enhances its beauty further. Furthermore, this illuminating feature can even be integrated directly into the roof itself for increased ease and versatility of use.
2. Reed-roofed
For terrace roofs that filter light while offering protection from sun and rain, reed-roof variants are an ideal choice. Reeds have traditionally been used in Europe for thatching because their longevity makes them better than straw. Reed roofs provide cooling comfort during summer days while providing insulation against winter cold.
Water reed (Phragmites australis) is often chosen as roofing material; however, its accessibility and cost can make it a challenge to locate. Other varieties are widely harvested worldwide – Norfolk reed (Phragmites communis) is popularly harvested in Norfolk and coastal regions.
Longstraw reed has long been used in England for thatching purposes, making up approximately 15% of total thatch production there. It features long lengths of straw that stand out compared to its tight cropped appearance of wheat reed or water reed thatching. Longstraw thatching can typically be secured using hazel spars and often features bird protection netting in place to deter attacks by birds. On my visit to Buitenverwachting wine farmstead near Cape Town I witnessed traditional craftsmen that practiced reed-thatching by traditional craftsmen still today – it was impressive!
3. Textile
An attractive awning on the terrace roof is a timeless solution that works well for many properties. Depending on weather conditions, this classic solution can easily extend or retract according to individual tastes – with patterns and colours to complement any decor style.
Add fast-growing vines into the structure for a rustic and romantic aesthetic, and to provide extra wind protection by filtering it away and shielding plants from scorch or being blown away by gusts. They may also help filter wind to prevent them from scorching or being blown away!
An elegant rooftop terrace design can make an impressive first impression and offer tranquil outdoor space to yourself and guests. Use outdoor rugs to define different zones, add garden statues and sculptures for added artistic flare, add potted plants and greenery for color, add decorative tables and chairs for relaxation after long workdays, etc.
4. Glass
For those looking to soak in the sun in style, a glass terrace roof offers an ideal solution. Not only does it expand living space and add architectural interest, it also lets in plenty of natural light to make rooms seem larger.
Roof terraces covered by glass canopies provide shelter from inclement weather conditions, making the space useable year-round and making it a fantastic addition to homes with limited or no backyard space. It can also make entertaining easier.
Glass terrace roof options range from flat skylights that blend seamlessly into their roof structure to pyramid skylights that offer more sophisticated design options. Although both options require sturdy support – which many choose steel as in this Rowood Farmhouse extension example the steel supports perfectly match existing aesthetic. Pyramid skylights on flat roofs also have more sophisticated design features available than flat skylights do.
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