Rooftop environments are becoming essential features in multi-family housing. As communities grow denser in urban, suburban, and rural markets, residents increasingly value outdoor amenities that support connection, recreation, and daily comfort. These spaces extend access to multi-use spaces for residents and help properties stay competitive in a rapidly evolving housing landscape.
Bison Innovative Products manufactures modular pedestal-supported decking systems that enable design teams to create level, durable rooftop environments over sloped roofs. These systems help developers transform unused space into attractive amenity areas without increasing the building footprint.
Outdoor access has become a key expectation for residents in modern developments. Balconies, terraces, ground-level courtyards, and rooftop decks all contribute to livability. Rooftop decks, in particular, offer a high-value amenity because every resident can enjoy them regardless of unit type.
Rooftop spaces introduce outdoor elements such as sun, wind, views, and green space into multi-family settings. These natural elements support wellness and contribute to a more balanced living experience. When designed thoughtfully, these areas serve as social hubs for gatherings, quiet retreats for relaxation, and flexible locations for activities and everyday routines.
Rooftop decks enhance daily living through outdoor kitchens, dining areas, lounge seating, gardens, pools, and recreation zones. Access to nature supports mental and physical well-being and provides a flexible environment for restoration and refuge. Shared rooftop amenities also foster community-building opportunities that help strengthen resident relationships.
Rooftop decks serve as strong leasing and sales differentiators in competitive housing markets. They help unlock functional space without increasing the building footprint and can support green building goals. These features may improve thermal performance and energy efficiency. As a result, rooftop decks can support long-term property value and appeal.
Successful rooftop amenities are created through intentional layout and programming decisions.
The rooftop deck at The Village at Westerly Creek demonstrates how modular pedestal systems support roofing for multi-family housing projects.
Versadjust Pedestals create a level walking surface across the sloped roof structure and help protect the roofing membrane through a non-penetrating installation. The surface of the modular decking system aligns with the building’s updated design and supports coordinated accessories such as planters, seating elements, and storage cubes. The shared rooftop deck provides valuable outdoor space for residents whose units do not include private balconies and helps ensure equitable access to outdoor amenities.
Rooftop decks offer meaningful outdoor environments for relaxation, socializing, cooking, gardening, and everyday routines. Modular deck systems make it possible to build level, accessible surfaces over sloped roofs while protecting the waterproofing system. Mixed materials and integrated planters allow designers to create distinct amenity zones suited for multiple activities. These spaces help multi-family housing remain competitive, desirable, and community-oriented without altering the building footprint.
Learn more about designing elevated rooftop decks for multi-family housing in our CEC course.
The modular decking systems add marketable outdoor amenities and expand livable space without increasing building mass.
Yes. Pedestal systems can provide pedestrian access over green roofs and work alongside planting or cool roof strategies.
All roof structures must be reviewed for load capacity, waterproofing protection, and code compliance. A structural or safety engineer should evaluate plans before installation.
Bison Innovative Products recommends that all rooftop deck systems should be installed by a licensed contractor with at least 2 years of proven experience. Plans or designs for a rooftop deck should be reviewed by a safety or structural engineer before construction. The roof must safely carry the static and live loads of the deck and any amenities, along with the appropriate insulation density to avoid crushing the waterproof membrane. Adding items such as hardscaping features, hot tubs, or pools requires additional engineering oversight. Property owners should research and follow all building codes and regulations to obtain required permits. Please review all product specifications on Bisonip.com prior to installation.