Vancouver rooftop terrace becomes year-round oasis

Stacey Plesko — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 01:08:50 +0000

This Richards street sub-penthouse terrace got an elevated look with new outdoor flooring using structural porcelain pavers on pedestals. The result is a stunning and functional outdoor oasis.

Penthouse terrace: from sub-par to spectacular

When the owners of a downtown Vancouver condo moved in, the spacious terrace was less than impressive. It was covered with aging, uneven, stained construction-grade cement pavers with nowhere to hide cords and hoses for amenities, unsightly drainage grates, and moss and algae build-up.

In addition to the inherited hot tub, renovation plans included the installation of an outdoor kitchen, container gardens and tree planters, a fire pit, and a barbecue. They now needed a custom deck tile solution that would be elegant but low-maintenance, strong enough to support the new furniture and amenities, and hide the plumbing and electrical while allowing for proper drainage. Just as importantly, they needed a company with experience and a reputation for delivering quality service and craftsmanship, as well as working with stratas.

Creating an outdoor oasis

When the call came to BC Outdoor Flooring, they responded with their standard professional service of an in-home consultation, including on-site sample viewing. This offered the busy homeowners the flexibility and convenience they needed, saving them several planning steps by clearly understanding their vision, drafting a working plan on the spot, and finalizing decisions about the materials as they stood on the deck itself. The owners were so pleased with the efficiency and reputation of the BCOF team they decided to look no further. The team then got to work finalizing the design plan to replace the heavy concrete slabs with a raised floor of lighter weight, high-quality structural porcelain pavers on pedestal supports.

The project was completed in 2’×4′ Italian porcelain pavers in Timeline grey. Engineered to be thinner and lighter than typical concrete deck tiles, structural porcelain pavers provide superior load-bearing capacity and are water-proof, slip-resistant and fade-proof while offering a wide variety of styles and designs. By utilizing pedestals, the floor was adjusted to the desired height, and no grout was required, giving the finished surface an elegant, clean appearance. The cavity below accommodated plumbing and electrical for the hot tub and outdoor kitchen while allowing any water and debris to drain away.

Trust the experts

Not all deck tiles are suitable for all condo balconies, patios, or rooftop terrace surfaces. Your deck structure and surface material will determine the outdoor flooring you should choose. As an outdoor flooring installation specialist, BC Outdoor Flooring has experience with all types of decks, balconies and patios. We are a full-service professional company with our own specialized equipment.

We will help you with design concepts and offer you the best flooring options for durability and style to suit your needs. We use only top-quality, weather-tested materials and back our finished products with a strong warranty. We provide each client with a clear estimate and stick to it. We have experience working with homeowners, strata corps, and management companies (including their architects and designers). Most outdoor flooring installations can be completed in one or two days. Visit our Portfolio for project examples.

Professional service and installation by an outdoor flooring specialist always makes a difference in the quality of materials, warranty, and overall finished surface. Visit our 7 Expert Tips page.

Trust BC’s outdoor flooring specialists to transform your next deck, patio, or terrace flooring project.

The post Vancouver rooftop terrace becomes year-round oasis appeared first on BC Outdoor Flooring - Vancouver - Deck, Patio and Terrace Outdoor Flooring & Tiles.

Top tips for year-round maintenance of your deck, patio and balcony flooring

Stacey Plesko — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 04:24:08 +0000

Keep your outdoor flooring in top shape with these pro tips or book a visit from the professionals for a complete resurface or replacement.

Having an outdoor deck or patio can be a great enjoyment; however, seasonal weather patterns, accessories like potted plants and barbecues, or general wear, can coat or stain outdoor flooring surfaces with mould, algae, and other messes. Setting aside time to care for your balcony or terrace flooring regularly can refresh and extend the life of your decking surface. For wood deck tiles, plan to schedule a professional maintenance appointment to clean or resurface and seal the wood tiles semi-regularly to keep them looking fresh and weather resistant.

BC Outdoor Flooring has been installing and maintaining outdoor flooring for decks, balconies, and terraces for many years. We use only top-quality, weather-tested materials and back our finished product with a strong warranty. We recommend these maintenance tips for regular home upkeep to help your outdoor space stay beautiful and last longer.

Regular Outdoor Flooring Maintenance

For covered decks and balconies or open-space patios and rooftop terraces, here are a few top tips for keeping things looking good and lasting longer:

Clean off all debris and stains regularly with a broom or hose and a gentle scrub with mild soapy water when needed. Never use a pressure washer on wood or composite deck tiles, as that can damage the finish.
Regularly sweep up all debris, dust away cobwebs, pollen, and grit from furniture and accessories.
Wipe down railings and panels, and don’t forget the outer edges of raised decks or balconies where grime builds up.
Raise potted plants with holders so soil run-off can drain or be rinsed away easily.
Protect surfaces under barbeques with a mat big enough to protect about 6-12” around the perimeter of your unit.

Winter Outdoor Flooring Maintenance

Winterizing your outdoor space will depend on the weather in your area and how much of your deck is covered. Here are a few tips on winter maintenance:

Stack furniture and accessories under a covered area or in storage.
Remove potted plants if possible and store them in a dry area over winter.
Store soft accessories like furniture cushions and rugs in outdoor storage bins, or indoors – pulling them out only when needed to prevent moisture damage (mildew).
Throughout the winter months – clear the area of debris regularly and check for water build-up or damage.
Check for damage to underlying surfaces (punctured membranes) and malfunctioning plumbing or electrical.

Extended Outdoor Flooring Maintenance

Deck surfaces vary as to the amount of maintenance or replacement they require. When it comes time to replace your outdoor flooring, choose a full-service professional company to install your outdoor flooring. They will help you decide on the best products for your needs and can often install the flooring in one day. There are various options for outdoor flooring depending on the type of deck, patio or terrace you have. Here are a few resources to help choose the best product to keep your deck covered for years of enjoyment:

Consider porcelain paver tiles as a versatile, low-maintenance decking material. A quick wash down with a hose and spot scrubbing is often all you need to do for upkeep. For heavy build-up, pressure washing won’t harm this impervious surface.
Composite deck tiles are an eco-friendly, versatile material for patios or balconies. Regularly sweeping, mopping, or spot scrubbing is the way to keep these clean. Never pressure-wash composite deck tiles.
Wood deck tiles are a classic choice and feel warm and soft underfoot. Sweeping, damp mopping and spot scrubbing with a cloth keeps things clean. Annually treating the surface with a sealant is recommended. Schedule professional maintenance appointments when they need to be resurfaced and freshened up.
Covering an outdoor patio or terrace creates an all-weather outdoor room, extending usability or year-long enjoyment. Many companies offer a range of temporary, permanent and retractable covers (canopies, pergolas, aluminum, glass roofs).

Wood Deck Tiles Oiled and Sealed

Wood Deck Tiles Sanded

For the day-to-day upkeep, it’s easy enough to take care of the minor maintenance of your outdoor flooring. For upkeep of hardwood deck tiles, sign up with BC Outdoor Flooring for their customizable maintenance program. Together with these pro tips, your deck or patio will stay clean, beautiful, and ready to use for years to come.