I was walking around South Philly this weekend and I saw a few roof-top decks, but not as many as in other parts of the city.

Has anyone been on any Roof-top decks in South Philly and what is the view like?

I've been on one in the Graduate Hospital area and the view of the skyline was spectacular. I wasn't sure what the view would be like from other parts of South Philly, further down, say Tasker, Snyder or Oregon.

Any idea how to get a roof deck built or the range of how much they cost to build? I've been trying to find a contractor or anyone who can build one for us to no avail. I asked a couple of our neighbors that have them, but they moved into the houses with the decks already built.

just bought a house in south philly - flat roof, 2 story, and the contractor said it would be about 10K. this sounded crazy to me, but i remember at my last apt - the new deck my landlord got was about 5K...and it had a same-level entrance. i think the extra cash was to build a stairway from inside to get up to the roof.

honestly, if i had the cash, i'd get it. since there are so few roof decks in south philly, not only is the view phenomenal, but you have lots of privacy up there. and...those tiny little yards really suck...

My husband and I were going to build a roof deck on our 2-story South Philly home. We even had archetectural plans drawn up and everything, but an opportunity came up that diverted our funds elsewhere. We still plan on the roof deck - but not for a while now.

The view (even from the second story) is really nice. It isn't awe-inspiring, but it is great to get above things. Plus from our area you can see fireworks from both Penn's Landing and the Art Museum.

hs812 was right about the stairs being a large expense. Especially if you are coming up from your small "back yard" because you'll need a spiral staircase and they are more involved. And I think the price you were quoted is about the same as we were expecting.

The good news is that a roofdeck is a good return on your investment as far as increasing the value of your house. So you've got that going for you, too.

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Life is a grindstone. Whether it grinds us down or polishes us up depends on us. -- T. L. Holdcroft

Expecting life to treat you well because you are a good person is like expecting an angry bull not to charge because you are a vegetarian.-- S. R. Barr

On 1400 Jackson, my family's house was 3 stories. The 3rd story was half a floor. So, you not only had a flat 2nd floor roof but also a step ladder could get you onto the 3rd floor roof as well.

It was really cool going up there when the fireworks were at the Vet.

It was really, REALLY cool when my next door neighbor sunbathed on her 2nd floor roof.

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What's a newbold?

As someone who loves rooftop decks who is (1) looking to buy a home and (2) considering South Philly, I have to ask...are there any zoning restrictions? Or are you pretty much always able to build a deck on a 2 or 3 story house?

YES, yes, and yes.


1. You do need a variance from the Zoning Board.

2. You will need to first speak to your local civic association that may or may not object. The Zoning Board will not hear the case without a letter from the civic association.

3. And ........ (I do not have the rules and regs right here) but I believe that there are no rooftop decks permitted in neighborhoods of two story houses.


Joel

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I've been on roof decks in Bella Vista that had phenomenal views of the city - really great. Much like what Malloy has on his site.

One thing I do know is that you should talk to the immediate neighbors and try to smooth out any objections quick, because any opposition from your closest neighbors could spell the end of your roof deck hopes.

we climb on to our roof through the little window on our top floor. although it can be difficult, the view is well worth it.

no deck just yet, but thats the plan