The climate in Baltimore, Maryland is categorized as a humid subtropical climate, meaning it typically has hot, humid summers and cool to mild winters. This climate spans the southeast region of the U.S., but because Baltimore is located near the Atlantic coast, and on the Chesapeake Bay and is in the northern region of this climate zone, it experiences all four seasons throughout the year.
Average yearly precipitation is about 42 inches with the highest amount falling in July and August with thunderstorms every five days, on average. Winters see an average of 20.6 inches of snow. Hot and humid summers see temperatures that average between 80 to 89-degrees Fahrenheit, though temperatures can reach into the 90s. Winter averages fall between 29 and 55-degrees, and spring and fall are both mild with temperatures ranging from 48 to 76-degrees.
This climate lends itself well to rooftop decks where Baltimore residents can soak up the sun — which shines about 213 days a year. Depending on the location, a Baltimore rooftop deck can offer views of the city skyline, Chesapeake Bay, or the Patapsco River, among many other views. A rooftop deck is a perfect place to enjoy Baltimore, and choosing the best rooftop deck system can ensure that the deck is used and enjoyed for years to come.
Rooftop Deck Materials
There are a number of different materials for a rooftop deck that each come with pros and cons. Choosing the right material will ensure the deck will last in the Baltimore climate and be as accessible as possible throughout the year.
Concrete Pavers
Concrete is a traditional paver material that has been around for years and is favored for its durability and affordability. Today’s concrete pavers are available in a range of colors and can even be stamped to create a unique pattern.
Concrete pavers require regular maintenance that entails regular cleaning, and they should be resealed every three to five years. Even with regular maintenance, they are prone to stains and cracks.
Because they are extremely heavy, the rooftop deck may need to be reinforced to hold the additional weight of concrete pavers. This adds cost and time to the project. Concrete pavers often use a pedestal installation system which can also increase the time it takes to install because of its complexity and the necessity of special tools to cut concrete.
Porcelain Pavers
Porcelain pavers are on the more expensive end of the paver price spectrum, but they are a high-quality material that works well for luxury projects. It is a highly durable and stain resistant material, however, it can be slippery to walk on in wet weather, but some porcelain tiles offer slip resistance. Like concrete pavers, porcelain pavers use a pedestal system for installation.
Interlocking Wood Deck Tiles
Interlocking wood deck tiles are typically made from woods like teak, ipe, and shorea and may come pre-stained and sealed, though they may need to be re-stained and re-sealed periodically.
Interlocking tiles typically have a plastic backing that allows the tiles to lock together and they can then be installed directly on the existing rooftop deck. This material can be a permanent solution, especially if the tiles are secured to the existing deck, but they can also be a temporary solution capable of being disassembled and moved if necessary.
Composite Pavers
Composite pavers are an alternative to traditional materials and are made from recycled rubbers and plastics. They are lightweight, as opposed to concrete and porcelain, and are much easier and faster to install, which allows you to use your rooftop deck and soak up the Baltimore sun as quickly as possible.
Composite pavers resist stains, scratches, cracks, and fading and can be installed in a wide range of patterns to create a truly unique rooftop deck.
Choose Aspire for Your Rooftop Deck in Baltimore
Before constructing a rooftop deck, it’s important to check rooftop deck regulations in Baltimore to ensure you’re meeting all requirements and building code regulations. Once you’ve made sure that you’re following any necessary regulations, it’s time to begin installation.
Aspire Pavers make installation easy with our patented installation grids. To install our pavers on a rooftop deck, simply lay the installation grids in place over the existing rooftop deck and place the pavers in the desired pattern. With four colors and multiple sizes to choose from, the pattern options are nearly endless.
Made from a blend of post-consumer recycled plastics and rubbers, our pavers not only look great, but they’re also incredibly durable and comfortable to walk on, so you can spend time entertaining or relaxing on the rooftop deck and enjoying the views.
Contact the experts at Aspire today to see how we can help you achieve the perfect Baltimore rooftop deck.