With summer temperatures continuing to break records, can a rooftop deck surfaced with porcelain pavers help in reducing heat buildup?

People don't always make the connection between heat absorption from rooftops and how it drives up AC costs, but your rooftop is your first line of defense against the sun. The color and material of your rooftop deck will significantly impact energy consumption. Our lighter porcelain pavers can do a fantastic job of reflecting heat and keeping decks cooler, due to their high solar reflectance and low heat absorption. And since roof decks are typically installed on pedestal supports, this creates an air gap between the pavers and the deck, which helps to reduce heat transfer to the rooftop. For maximum benefit, a couple of light-colored porcelain pavers from our range that look amazing around rooftop pools are 'Travertine Pearl' and 'Crystal White.'

 
We've seen an uptick in wildfires in the last few years and burning embers can be a serious threat to wood decks. For homeowners who desire the look of a traditional wood deck, are porcelain pavers a safer option?

This has indeed been a popular question, not only from those in rural areas, but also those in cities enforcing stricter fire regulations. Our suggestion for constructing elevated decks is to use porcelain pavers supported by our all-steel 'Incendio' pedestals, both of which are completely non-combustible. The pavers help to create a barrier that protects the surface below, reducing the chance of falling debris or embers igniting the deck and causing flames to spread. And yes, you can still have a wood-looking deck. We have several pavers that reproduce the look of natural wood, ranging from light grey to dark brown.

You also supply wood decking. Do your wood products come from sources that are sustainably and responsibly managed?

As a part of our commitment to sustainability, our standard line of structural Ipe wood tiles are FSC® certified (FSC-C113128) and exclusively sourced from responsibly managed forests. These 24" x 24" and 24" x 48" tiles have become very popular for building a natural wood roof deck. They are much quicker and easier to install than a more traditional, bearer-supported wood plank deck but look just as good in both residential and commercial locations.

You recently added FRP grating panels to your range. How does this product contribute to your commitment to offering sustainable products that reduce environmental impact?

With our 'SpanTrak' FRP panels, our focus is on applications like marina decking, boardwalks, walkways, and pedestrian bridge decking. FRP is an exceptionally durable and hard-wearing material, especially for wet locations. The gritted surface prevents virtually any slipping, even when wet or icy. Unlike treated lumber, FRP will not rot, crack, or twist and resists moss and mildew growth. In addition, the open mesh structure lets water and sunlight pass through, so vegetation under the deck can continue to thrive. And we can supply these panels in any color so they can seamlessly blend with the local environment.