Why Walkways Can Sometimes Function as Roofs

When most people think about roofing systems, they imagine a roof sitting at the top of a building.

However, on many apartment blocks, housing estates and public-sector developments, certain walkways and access decks also perform an important roofing function. While residents may simply view them as communal walkways, they are often protecting occupied homes beneath from water ingress and weather exposure.

This dual purpose can make refurbishment projects significantly more complex than many people realise.

Not All Roofs Are Located Above the Top Floor

Many residential blocks include elevated walkways that provide access to flats on upper levels.

In some buildings, these walkways are constructed directly above occupied properties. This means the walkway surface is also acting as the roof for the home below.

As a result, any deterioration in the walkway waterproofing can potentially lead to leaks, damp and structural issues within the property beneath.

Water Ingress Often Starts at Vulnerable Details

Walkways are subjected to constant foot traffic as well as year-round weather exposure.

Over time, waterproofing systems can deteriorate, particularly around:

• Door thresholds

• Expansion joints

• Drainage outlets

• Balustrade fixings

• Junctions with walls and cladding

These areas frequently become the source of water ingress if maintenance is delayed.

Access Walkways Face Different Challenges to Traditional Roofs

Unlike conventional roofing systems, walkways must perform two functions simultaneously.

They need to:

• Remain waterproof

• Support regular pedestrian traffic

• Provide slip resistance

• Comply with safety requirements

• Remain accessible for residents

This combination places additional demands on the waterproofing system and often requires specialist refurbishment solutions.

Building Regulations Often Drive Refurbishment Decisions

Many older housing blocks were built to standards that differ significantly from today's requirements.

During refurbishment projects, housing providers may need to address:

• Thermal performance

• Insulation requirements

• Drainage improvements

• Safety enhancements

• Waterproofing performance

As a result, refurbishment projects often involve more than simply replacing the existing surface finish.

Housing Associations Face Additional Considerations

Many walkway refurbishment projects take place on occupied housing estates.

This creates additional challenges, including:

• Resident access

• Safety management

• Phased working

• Communication requirements

• Minimising disruption

Contractors must balance the need for effective refurbishment with the practical realities of maintaining access to residents' homes.

Real Projects Highlight the Complexity

Our Gateway Housing Association Case Study demonstrates how walkways can function as both access routes and roofs.

At Constant House and Holmesdale House, elevated walkways provided access to flats while also protecting occupied homes below. The refurbishment addressed waterproofing failures, low threshold issues and insulation requirements, while residents remained in occupation throughout the works.

The result was a safer, more durable and fully compliant system that protected both the walkways and the homes beneath.

Waterproofing Plays a Critical Role

Where walkways act as roofs, waterproofing performance becomes especially important.

Specialist Balcony & Terrace Upgrades can help improve durability, safety and long-term protection while ensuring the structure continues to perform both functions effectively.

Regular inspections and maintenance can also help identify problems before significant water ingress occurs.

Understanding the Hidden Function of Walkways

Many building owners and residents do not realise that communal walkways are sometimes performing a roofing role.

Understanding this dual purpose helps explain why refurbishment projects can be more complex than expected and why specialist waterproofing systems are often required.

When properly maintained and refurbished, these structures can continue providing safe access for residents while protecting the homes below for many years to come.