Best practices for service access in complex roof terrace design

Roof terraces are increasingly popular additions to both residential and commercial buildings, offering valuable outdoor space and stunning views. However, designing a roof terrace, especially a complex one, requires careful consideration of various factors, including service access.

Neglecting this aspect can lead to significant problems down the line, from difficult maintenance to costly repairs. At Raaft®, we understand the importance of integrating service access seamlessly into your terrace design.

Here are some of our best practices to ensure functionality and longevity:

Service access in roof terrace design: Best practices

1. Planning for future needs

• Anticipate maintenance: Consider all potential service requirements, including plumbing, electrical, gas lines, HVAC systems, and drainage. Plan for easy access to these systems for routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.
• Compliance: Ensure your design adheres to all relevant building codes and regulations regarding service access on roof terraces. This may include requirements for minimum clearances, fire safety, and accessibility.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all service locations, routes, and specifications. This documentation will be invaluable for future maintenance and repairs.

2. Choosing the right support structure

• Accessibility: Raaft®'s adjustable steel pedestals create a void beneath the terrace surface, providing space for running services. Our pedestals are easy to use and engineered for high performance.
• Removability: Design the terrace surface with removable sections to allow easy access to the void space below. Consider using our Atria® Porcelain Tiles atop our Raaft® system to create easily removable and replaceable surface areas for maintenance.
• Durability: Select support materials that are resistant to moisture, corrosion, and other environmental factors. Raaft®'s 30mm & 50mm Aluminium substructure Preventa® joists provide a stable and durable platform for your chosen surface material.

3. Integrating access points

• Discrete placement: Locate access points strategically to minimise their visual impact on the terrace design. Consider incorporating them into planters, seating areas, or other architectural features. Our steel Raaft® planters are a robust solution that can cleverly conceal access points while adding aesthetic value.
• Secure covers: Use durable, weather-resistant covers for all access points to prevent water intrusion and ensure safety. Ensure the covers are easy to remove and replace.
• Clear marking: Clearly mark all access points with labels indicating the type of service they provide access to. This will help prevent confusion and ensure that the correct service is accessed.

4. Material selection

• Durability: Choose terrace materials that are resistant to wear and tear from foot traffic, weather, and maintenance activities.
• Fire safety: Prioritise fire-rated materials, especially in multi-story buildings. Our innovative system combines height-adjustable steel pedestals with aluminium support joists that work seamlessly with our high-performance porcelain decking, creating a non-combustible solution that meets all UK building regulations and fire safety reviews.
• Slip resistance: Select surfaces with adequate slip resistance to ensure safety, especially in wet conditions. Our fire, wind, and slip-resistant extruded porcelain decking boards are available in various colours to meet both safety and aesthetic requirements.

5. Landscaping considerations

• Root barriers: Install root barriers around planters and other landscaped areas to prevent roots from damaging underground services.
• Drainage: Ensure proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating around service access points.
• Plant selection: Choose plants that are appropriate for the roof terrace environment and will not interfere with service access.

The complete terrace system from Raaft®

By following these best practices, you can create a complex roof terrace design that is both beautiful and functional, with easy access for all necessary services.

At Raaft®, we are committed to providing innovative and versatile terrace systems that make it easy to achieve your design vision.

Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help you create the perfect roof terrace for your project.