Sorry if this isn't the right sub for this, but trying to understand if my rooftop terrace could support the weight of a raised bed garden! I have a large rooftop designed for occupation similar to the one above and I wanted to start a good-sized garden up there now that it's almost spring. I'm not sure exactly what the weight limit is, all we were told when we asked is not to put a hot tub up there.
I was planning on putting 2 70×14 inch beds, plus quite a few pots up there to grow vegetables, but I'm worried about the weight limit once the soil is in, and once that gets wet.
The roof is sloped for drainage, and I plan on putting the garden near the drain so any water from the beds drains off the roof quickly. I was also planning on putting pond liner directly under the beds to avoid potentially rotting the roof. The roof isn't cement so doesn't feel super solid and the floor is some kind of PVC/ vinyl film they roll over the actual flooring, and I'm not sure how water resistant that is.
I know getting a structural engineer out there to tell us if it's safe is the best idea, but just curious it anybody has tried planting a garden on a residential rooftop that's similar to this!
by catleesimomofkittens
3 Comments
I can’t offer any advice, but I really hope that you keep us informed and updated on your progress because this looks like such a fun project!
*This should not be taken as professional advice or recommendations in any way. Its always best to consult a local professional.
Most residential occupiable rooftops are designed to 40 psf live load, and balconies are increased to 1.5x that so 60 psf in total. The caveat is the age of your place. To my best knowledge, this live load has been required since 2012 IBC. Your best bet is to try to spread out the load to as big an area as possible to distribute it to as much structural members as possible. You can look into not filling your whole garden bed with soil.
Have you looked into aeroponics or hydroponics?
Better not risk it. Buy elevated planters like this one instead:
https://www.costco.com/CedarCraft%20Self-Watering%20Elevated%20Spruce%20Planter.product.1315408.html?sh=true&nf=true