As urban lots shrink and multifamily buildings climb higher, rooftop decks are becoming the go-to way to give tenants and owners valuable outdoor living space. For instance, in densely populated neighborhoods where a traditional yard isn't an option, rooftop decks are stepping in as the "backyard substitute," offering a place to unwind, entertain and enjoy the view. They are also a sought-after amenity and community space that can increase property value on multifamily projects.

But there’s a catch. Constant exposure to sun, heavy rain, snow and freeze-thaw cycles can take a serious toll on any outdoor element. This raises some common questions: How long does a rooftop deck last? How do you waterproof a rooftop deck? Here’s the thing. The key to a truly weatherproof deck lies in what’s underneath it all: the deck framing system.

While wood has been the deck framing material of choice for decades, many contractors have learned the hard way that pressure-treated lumber doesn’t hold up like it used to. Prone to warping, twisting and rotting when exposed to tough conditions; it’s increasingly difficult to guarantee long-term performance when working with PT lumber. This is why more contractors are moving towards wood-alternative deck framing materials like steel.

A weatherproof rooftop deck requires a durable framing material

For contractors and their clients who want to confidently invest in a rooftop deck that lasts, steel deck framing offers the winning combination of superior strength and staying power. Incredibly durable, a steel deck frame stands up to the challenges that often spell trouble for old-school wood framing. Case in point: a steel frame will not deteriorate after long-term exposure to moisture, split under hurricane-force winds or warp due to extreme temperature changes. Instead, steel profiles will remain straight and true season after season. The result is an enduring, dimensionally stable rooftop deck framing solution that keeps the surface boards flat and smooth underfoot. For contractors, this means fewer callbacks and ultimate peace of mind that the rooftop deck they installed for their client will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it.

A built-to-last rooftop deck should prioritize fire-performance

In recent years, weatherproofing a deck has evolved well beyond protecting against rain, snow and extreme temperatures. Today, true durability also means ensuring the outdoor living space can mitigate fire risk. While fire-retardant treated wood is marketed as a “fire-safe” option for rooftop decks and may be permitted under Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and NFPA 1140 codes, it is a combustible material at its core. Moreover, because wood cannot be both fire-retardant and preservative-treated at the same time, it fails to meet building code requirements for both protection standards. This forces contractors to choose one form of protection over another. Steel deck framing eliminates the need for compromise. Inherently noncombustible, fire- and ignition-resistant, a rooftop deck framed with steel greatly reduces the risk of fire ignition beneath or on top of the deck while delivering proven weather-resistant performance. That’s why many contractors looking to deliver long-term protection are choosing steel deck framing as the substructure material for their rooftop deck projects.

Check out this fire-smart Chicago rooftop deck. Supported by a steel deck frame, the deck meets the city’s Chicago Building Code 15-8-510, which requires all roof structures on buildings over 55 feet or within the fire limits to be constructed from noncombustible materials. Don’t miss how it also features a deluxe cooking station and plenty of open-air seating, making it the perfect spot to relax, entertain and take in the city views.

Protect rooftop deck projects from fire and elements with Evolution steel deck framing

Contractors looking to leverage the advantages of steel on their next rooftop deck project can trust Evolution steel deck framing from Fortress Building Products. Designed to deliver lasting performance in any environment, including those hit hard by extreme weather and vulnerable to wildfire risks, the ready-to-assemble system helps contractors frame a safer rooftop deck with relative ease. No specialized tools required, Evolution’s interlocking joist and ledger system provides a straightforward installation process that looks and feels like working with wood.

Underscoring its safety factor, the industry-leading steel deck framing system is a Class A fire-rated product, having successfully completed the ASTM E84-21a, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials. This makes the Evolution approved for use in regions with stringent fire-codes, including 15-8-510 of Chicago Building Code, WUI, NFPA 1140 and ICWI. In application, the noncombustible steel framing system can help prevent flames from spreading quickly. This is especially critical on rooftop projects in urban settings, where the building might be tucked in tightly to its neighboring properties. For ultimate peace of mind, Evolution is backed by a 25-year manufacturer warranty, giving both contractors and their clients confidence that the rooftop deck will stand strong for years to come.

Reach out to your local Fortress Building Products rep to see how Evolution delivers unmatched durability and safety to your project or check out our Where to Buy page to locate a dealer near you.