Outdoor Amenity Space Surfacing Materials and Systems
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Over the past few decades, exterior building spaces and roofs have significantly transformed from utilitarian ballasted roof systems to roof systems with highly programmed, environmentally conscious, people-friendly amenities that promote healthier lifestyles. A variety of products and materials can be utilized in the design and construction of roof gardens and decks. This course reviews the construction of basic types of roof systems and the range of hardscaping products that are available to designers.
Upon completion of this course, the Learner should be able to:
- Identify key sustainability criteria (SITES® and LEED® rating systems) for roof decking systems and outdoor amenity spaces and discuss how the arrangement of hardscape and planting on the roof deck can achieve a harmonious connection to the interior building amenities.
- Review the basic types of roof systems and evaluate the materials used in roof deck design in terms of their structural performance, durability, and sustainability.
- Explain the evolution of ballasted roof systems to outdoor amenity spaces and discuss how these areas can benefit the environment and human health and well-being.
- Examine the available customization options for concrete tiles and slabs on roof decks and outdoor amenity spaces.
Approximately 1 hour. Delivered online, at your own pace.
Presented by Brad Swanson, ASLA, CSI, CDT, LEED® AP on behalf of Unilock. View the Privacy Policy .
Presenter Information

Name: Brad Swanson, ASLA, CSI, CDT, LEED® AP
Title: Product Representative, Unilock
Background: Brad Swanson, ASLA, CSI, CDT, LEED® AP began his career with Unilock in July 2005 as a commercial product representative. Prior to starting with Unilock, he spent 12 years practicing as a landscape architect in Chicago. He is a registered landscape architect in the states of Illinois, Indiana, and California. His project experience and interest were primarily in campus design, parks and recreation, and athletic field design. Several of his projects used segmental paving systems for plazas, streetscapes, and other pedestrian spaces. He is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Construction Specifications Institute, and the United States Green Building Council.