How To Enjoy Your Roof Decks With Non-Penetrating Guardrails

Picture this: you and your guests savoring the ambiance of a rooftop deck and enjoying refreshing drinks while taking in the stunning views of the city or surrounding nature. Now imagine how that picture would change if someone were to fall off the deck...or off of the whole roof.

Dramatic, I know, but a very real concern.

Roof deck spaces have become increasingly popular, providing a unique and enjoyable area for entertainment and relaxation. Ensuring safety without compromising the integrity of your roof is the complication.

Today, we’ll explore the benefits of the KeeGuard non-penetrating guardrail, allowing you to create fun and secure rooftop deck.

But first, let’s unpack some of the regulations you’ll need to comply with.

What Codes Apply to Rooftop Deck Guardrails

There are two primary codes that you need to know: OSHA and local building code.

OSHA creates standards for workplace safety. So, if you are creating this space for an apartment complex or restaurant, then you’ll have workers here. However, if you’re a homeowner, then OSHA doesn’t have authority in your situation. But local building code uses OSHA’s standards, so you’ll still want to read this.

OSHA requires fall protection anytime a worker is exposed to a fall that could cause harm. In most cases, a fall hazard is any level change 4 feet in height or more. As you can imagine, a roof will qualify as a fall hazard. So, what do you do?

There are a few options available for fall protection. However, guardrails are going to be your only option because of the building code we’re going to review in a moment.

OSHA says that guardrails must:

• Have a top rail that is 42 inches in height from the walking surface, plus or minus 3 inches.
• Have a mid rail midway between the top rail and walking surface, with no gap greater than 19 inches.
• Be able to withstand 200 pounds of concentrated force on the top rail and 150 pounds of force for the mid rail.
• Be 25 inches in thickness or diameter, keeping the above points in mind
• Be smooth so that employees can’t be harmed by punctures or lacerations and clothes cannot be snagged.

These are the main points for your guardrail. You can read our OSHA guardrail guide for more details.

Local building code is harder to pin down in a blog because there are so many different municipalities. The good news is that most of them adopt the International Building Code (IBC), so that’s what’s we’ll talk about.

IBC includes OSHA’s standards in its code and adds a little more. Here is the extra bit you need to know.

Guardrails should be:

• Provided at any open-side that is 30 inches or more above a lower level
• Able to withstand 50 pounds per linear foot
• Not allow a sphere of 4 inches to pass through at any point between the top rail and the walking surface

It’s important to remember to check your local code and any other applicable codes before you install a rooftop deck. Now, to the reason you’re here.

5 Reasons to Use KeeGuard For Your Non-Penetrating Roof Deck Railing

Here are the benefits to you for using KeeGuard.

No Holes In Your Roof

This is probably the biggest reason why you’re here. KeeGuard’s counter balance technology allows you to install a guardrail without cutting into or punching holes through your roof.  It goes beyond just avoiding the need for structural connection. This guardrail system has been designed so that now metal edges come in contact with your roof. This means that when time passes and pressure is put on the guardrail, no metal weights will be digging into your roof, causing leaks that you didn’t plan on.

Adhere to Your Local Codes

KeeGuard rooftop guardrail can be designed to meet and exceed the codes and regulations required for your rooftop space. This includes the ability to add strength to the system to go beyond OSHA standards to meet the 50 pounds per foot requirement of most local codes. Infill panels are easy to install to prevent 4-inch spheres from passing through at any point on the guardrail, as required by IBC. All this happens without penetrating your roof.

Fits Your Deck Design

Rooftop entertainment spaces come in various shapes and sizes, and KeeGuard recognizes the need for versatility in installation. There are a host of Kee Klamp fittings that allow you to change the shape of the guardrail so that the railing fits your needs and not the deck your guardrail needs.

The counterbalances can also fit seamlessly under decks or green roofs because the weights are only 3 inches in height. The length of the counterbalance can be adjusted based on where your pedestals are placed. This preserves the clean and unobstructed look of your rooftop deck.

Match Your Look

Whether you want the industrial steel look or have a specific color pallet in mind, KeeGuard can provide the look you want. You can match colors from the RAL color chart to have your guardrail powder coated. There is also a range of infill panel options available to you. The standard options are a 4-inch x 4-inch wire grid, a picket infill panel, or a chainlink fence. Talk to one of our experts if you have a specific option you would like to use.

Peace of Mind

I know this is cliche, but there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. KeeGuard is a system that is strong and durable. The pipe and fittings are all hot-dipped galvanized. The galvanization is on the inside as well as the outside. The weights are made out of 100% recycled PVC, removing waste instead of creating it.

This means that your guardrail is going to last as long as the memories you’ll create in your new space. If that doesn’t bring peace of mind, I’m not sure what will.

Wrapping Up

Your rooftop deck should be a place where you can unwind, entertain, and create lasting memories. With KeeGuard, you can create a rooftop deck that not only provides a safe environment but also exudes an elegant industrial style.

Contact us today to discuss your rooftop deck railing needs and create a secure and inviting space for entertainment and relaxation.