What is the main function of a roof deck?

The main function of a roof deck is to handle dead and live loads. The roof deck serves as the structural element that provides support for both the materials placed on top of it (such as roofing systems) and any additional loads that may occur, including snow, water, or maintenance personnel. The roof deck must be designed to withstand these forces without compromising the building's structural integrity.

In this context, dead loads refer to the weight of the roof structure itself, including roofing materials and any permanent installations, while live loads pertain to temporary live forces like snow accumulation or people moving on the roof. Understanding the core purpose of a roof deck is essential for ensuring that it is constructed with the appropriate materials and design specifications, contributing to the overall safety and longevity of the roofing system.

Other functions, such as providing insulation or acting as a waterproofing barrier, are important aspects of roofing systems but are not the primary purpose of the roof deck itself. Similarly, supporting rooftop landscaping is more a function of additional structural elements rather than the roof deck's main role.