702 E 5th Street – Roof Deck

Custom Roof Deck Addition for a Single-Family Home

This homeowner in South Boston had a beautifully finished single-family home but limited usable outdoor space. At Abacus Builders, our team of roofing experts and deck builders specializes in transforming urban properties into functional and enjoyable living spaces. Boston is an historic city with compact parcels, making outdoor space a premier luxury—but it doesn’t have to be, thanks to our innovative solutions.

For this project, the existing headhouse was a significant advantage, saving time and costs in the construction of a stunning new roof deck. However, challenges included the home’s impeccably finished interior, which ruled out internal access to the roof during construction. Instead, our team used OSHA-compliant ladders for safe access and completed the work without compromising the home’s interior.

Additionally, the property’s location on a rear lot, set back 30–40 feet from the street, presented logistical challenges. All materials had to be carefully hand-passed to the roof, increasing costs slightly but ensuring the project moved forward efficiently.

Key features of the new roof deck include:

  • Outdoor Kitchen: A perfect addition for entertaining and enhancing outdoor living.
  • Trex Select Composite Decking: Durable and low-maintenance, installed with hidden fasteners for a clean aesthetic.
  • Custom Wrought Iron Handrails: Designed with drink caps for added functionality and style.

This project demonstrates why Abacus Builders is one of Boston’s best contractors and deck remodelers. Despite the challenges, our expertise in roof deck construction delivered a luxurious outdoor space that the homeowners can enjoy for years to come.

Another example of how our historic builders bring modern comfort to Boston’s urban residences while preserving the city’s character