If you need to spice up the design of your container home, adding a shipping container deck can be one of the best choices.
Since the container’s roof is flat, you can set up a deck on your container home’s roof and design it to your liking.
By having a shipping container deck in your container home, you can enjoy something like a balcony or a patio in such a home.
Benefits of Roof Decking on Shipping Container Homes
Adding a roof deck to your shipping container home creates an outdoor retreat that maximizes available space.
Container homes are compact by design, and a rooftop deck expands the livable area without requiring additional land.
You can use this elevated space for lounging, dining, or hosting gatherings, making it an ideal spot for relaxation or socializing.
Rooftop decks also provide privacy compared to ground-level patios. Elevated above surrounding areas, homeowners can enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about prying eyes.
Another benefit is the potential for stunning views. If you live in a rural area surrounded by nature or an urban setting with cityscapes, a rooftop deck offers an unobstructed vantage point to take in the scenery.
Finally, rooftop decks contribute to increased property value. This feature is attractive in markets where innovative designs and eco-friendly living spaces are in demand.
Designing the Perfect Roof Deck
Creating a roof deck on a shipping container home requires careful planning and design to ensure safety, functionality, and aesthetics.
Decking Materials
Wood
Wood is a classic choice for decking due to its natural beauty and versatility. Redwood and cedar are popular options because they can handle insects and rot.
Pressure-treated wood is another durable choice that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
However, wood decks require regular maintenance, such as sealing and staining, to preserve their appearance and longevity.
Composite
Composite decking combines plastic and wood fibers to create a durable, low-maintenance material.
It resists fading, staining, and moisture damage, making it ideal for rooftop decks exposed to the elements.
Composite decking comes in various colors and textures, allowing homeowners to customize the look of their outdoor space easily.
Access Options
Accessing your rooftop deck requires safe and convenient stairs. Spiral staircases are popular due to their compact design and aesthetic appeal.
Straight stairs with railings provide easy access while ensuring stability for users of all ages.
Safety Features
Safety should be a top priority when designing your roof deck. Install railings around the perimeter to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with local building codes.
Non-slip surfaces on stairs and decking materials reduce the risk of falls during wet or icy conditions.
Functional Additions
To enhance your rooftop deck’s usability, consider adding functional features like seating areas, tables, planters, or even outdoor kitchens with grills for entertaining guests.
Lighting fixtures such as string or solar-powered lamps create an inviting ambiance for evening gatherings.
Practical Uses for Rooftop Decks
You can use your home’s shipping container deck to do the following and make your container home life more wholesome:
Outdoor Living Space
Transform your rooftop into an outdoor living area with comfortable furniture like sofas, chairs, and coffee tables.
Add cushions and rugs for extra coziness while creating zones for lounging or dining under the open sky.
Green Roof Garden
A green roof garden is an eco-friendly option that combines aesthetics with sustainability.
Plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables in raised beds or containers to create a lush oasis above your home while contributing positively to biodiversity.
Solar Panel Installation
Rooftop decks provide an excellent platform for solar panel installations that harness renewable energy directly from sunlight and reduce electricity bills!
Entertainment Hub
Host parties or family gatherings on your rooftop deck equipped with sound systems, grills, and dining areas that can entertain guests comfortably outdoors!
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Integrate rainwater collection systems into your rooftop design by installing gutters leading into storage tanks below.
Structural Considerations
If you want to add a shipping container deck to your container home, pay attention to these aspects first:
Load-Bearing Capacity
Consulting with structural engineers ensures proper calculations regarding dead loads (deck materials), live loads (people/equipment), and transient loads (weather stresses) before proceeding further into the construction phases.
This step is crucial to ensure the container can support the additional weight without compromising its structural integrity.
Waterproofing
Proper waterproofing is essential to prevent leaks and protect the container home’s interior from moisture damage.
Use high-quality waterproof membranes or coatings to create a barrier against water infiltration. Pay special attention to seams and joints where water is most likely to penetrate.
Insulation
You can add insulation beneath the deck to regulate temperature and prevent heat transfer between the deck and the container’s interior.
This step helps maintain comfortable living conditions inside while enjoying the rooftop space.
Ventilation
Ensure adequate ventilation between the deck and the container roof to prevent moisture buildup and potential mold growth.
Proper airflow helps extend the lifespan of both the deck and the container structure.
Design Ideas for Rooftop Decks
When designing your rooftop deck, consider these ideas to maximize its potential:
Shade Structures
Incorporate pergolas, retractable awnings, or shade sails to protect from sun and light rain.
These structures can offer comfort and boost visual interest in your rooftop space.
Built-in Seating
Maximize space efficiency by including built-in benches or seating areas along the deck’s surroundings.
This approach saves floor space while providing ample seating for guests.
Vertical Gardens
Install wall-mounted planters or trellises for climbing plants to turn the deck into something of a rooftop garden. This technique adds greenery without taking up valuable floor area on your deck.
Fire Features
Add warmth and ambiance with a fire pit or outdoor fireplace that can extend the usability of your rooftop deck into cooler evenings and create a cozy gathering spot.
Privacy Screens
Place decorative screens, lattice panels, or tall planters in your container deck’s perimeter if you need some privacy in your deck. These elements can also serve as windbreaks in exposed locations.
Also Read: Shipping Container Garage from Container Canopies for Projects
Conclusion
With its multifunction capabilities and customizable design, a shipping container deck can make a container home better in any way. To ensure the container home is properly sourced and the deck designed, contact Tradecorp today! With extensive experience and expertise in the industry, Tradecorp can meet all its customer’s demands from procuring standard to modified shipping containers.
