The cottage home we are building this summer has a very nice view of Lake Superior. But when when I climb my ladder to the height of the ridge beam, the view gets a whole lot better.
So I’ve started thinking that a “widows walk” structure would be an interesting and useful addition to the roof.
Seems simple – nothing more than a 12X12 deck up there where the view is better.
But of course everything that seems simple really hasn’t been thought through yet!
So I’m seeking some helpful thinking . . .
TIA
Lew Miller
“There is only one success: to be able to spend your life in your own way.”
Replies
Roof flashings
wind anchors
access
sweat
but sounds worth it. come put one on my house when you're done.
;>)
One thing to check out first is if your area has any zoning limitations on third story rooms or overall structure height limitations. A friend of mine is going through a zoning variance right now for a similar situation. Also, if it will be accessed by a ladder will you have a code problem with your inspector? Check now to save in the long run.
Bish
I don't know if it's viable but what about a walk-out deck off the gable end? It could be a small cantileverd walk-out area big enough to set some patio chairs on and would be a great detail for a master bed/bath suite upstairs. Or you could do the same thing outside a dormer facing the view. The widow's walk idea sounds good but accessibility has a lot to do with its function and usefullness.
Accessability and flashing are the big issues. I am on an island and plenty of houses have real widow's walks, so named because the captain's wife who lived there would go up to walk and look for her husbanbs ship when it was due in port, or overdue, as the case may be.
Most of these are accessed via a hatch and a ship's ladder, not practical nowadays for the homeowner who wants to wander up there with a drinmk in hand to enjoy the sunset and a cool evening breeze on the folding deck chair.Excellence is its own reward!