Choosing the right paver system for rooftop amenity spaces

Since the industrial revolution, the United States has been rapidly urbanizing. The most recent census data shows that approximately 80% of Americans live in an urban or suburban location, and that number is on the rise. Cities house nearly 63% of the U.S. population, while comprising just 3.5% of total land area. With space at a premium, cities are rapidly losing public greenways for their citizens, as demand for the built environment continues to drive development.

One area in which pertinent data exist that can inform future change is the increasing proliferation of green roofs. Access to outdoor spaces, whether built out of hardscape or biological materials, provides building tenants with a respite from city life, access to fresh air, and a place to gather.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
+ Distinguish between traditional and inverted roof membrane assemblies, considering the benefits and drawbacks of each for different types of roof applications.
+ Evaluate engineering considerations for roof rehabilitation, including load capacity, accessibility, roof geometry, wind uplift, and energy code compliance, and how each of these factors impacts the design of roof coverings and amenity spaces.
+ Assess architectural design considerations for accessible roof areas, from paver material options and vegetative elements to site furniture, fixtures, and finishes.
+ Attend to leak detection and repair measures when designing a roof paver system for longevity and maintainability, as overburden must be removed to locate, confirm, and repair sites of water infiltration.