Walk Deck, Balcony or Rooftop Deck: How They Differ

What is the difference between a walk deck, balcony and rooftop deck?

A rooftop walk deck gives part of your roof two jobs: protecting the space underneath and providing a walking surface where you can enjoy the view. A balcony describes an outdoor area reached from an upper floor. A rooftop deck describes where the space sits. A walk deck describes a waterproof surface designed for people to use, so the names can overlap.

Our 928 Roofing team looks at both sides of the project: how you'll use the space above and how it keeps water out below. We handle deck and stair work along with waterproofing. Tell us about the roof or deck you have and what you'd like it to become.

Balconies connect outdoor space to a room

A balcony extends usable space from an upper floor. Its construction and what sits underneath help determine the waterproofing it needs. We pay attention to the doorway, walls and outer edges, where water can find a route into the building.

Not every balcony covers an indoor room. Where it does, its floor also needs to function as a roof for the space below. Waterproofing at the door, walls and edges matters along with the surface you walk on.

Rooftop decks create an elevated outdoor area

A rooftop deck lets you use the area above part of your home for outdoor living. With a walk deck system, that area can provide a finished walking surface and roofing protection in the same space. Drainage, waterproofing and the structure underneath all need to suit that use.

A roof that looks suitable from an upstairs window may not be designed for regular foot traffic. The structure, access, edge protection and waterproofing need to suit its intended use.

Start with how you want to use the space

Do you want to restore a leaking balcony, repair an existing rooftop walk deck or explore whether part of your roof can become usable space? Each starts with different questions about the construction, condition and waterproofing.

Let us know whether you're repairing a space you already use or planning something new. That helps us work out what needs checking before we discuss materials and finishes.

What needs to be checked before choosing a surface?

For an existing deck, tell us about leaks, water that collects after rain and any past repairs. A surface can look ready for a new finish while hiding problems underneath.

We check how water drains off the roof or deck and where it meets doors, walls and drains. We also handle deck and stair repairs, so we can plan that work along with the waterproofing. If the project needs an engineer or additional design work, that should be worked out before construction begins.

Plan your outdoor space with our local team

You don't need to know the right roofing term before you call us. Tell us what you have and how you'd like to use it. Our team lives and works in Northern Arizona, and helping our neighbors understand their options is part of our job. Contact our 928 Roofing team about your property in Sedona, the Village of Oak Creek, Flagstaff or another community we serve. We'll explain the repairs or construction involved and guide you through the next steps.