Porcelain deck pavers are one of the most popular hardscaping options on the market due to their incredible versatility, durability and aesthetic appeal. Not only that, but they’re incredibly easy to install, making them perfect for a homeowner who wants to DIY or a business looking to stay within budget.

Tile Tech offers an innovative adjustable pedestal system that works seamlessly with all of our deck pavers to make it easier than ever to perfectly install a level roof deck, terrace or patio on any terrain. If you’re ready to renovate your outdoor space with porcelain deck pavers, here are three important facts you need to know about installation with adjustable pedestals.

1. What Is a Pedestal System?

Pedestals have been used for thousands of years in various forms to create an elevated floor. This simple solution helps prevent water stagnation, levels out hilly terrain, and makes installation more efficient.

Pedestal systems are used in both indoor and outdoor applications. Indoors, elevated flooring can be used to help conceal pipes, electrical wiring, and other underfloor construction in commercial properties. Outdoors, the adjustable pedestals help level out sloped terrain for a comfortable and functional patio or deck.

The Tile Tech adjustable pedestal system is a structural support system consisting of seven standard pieces and a user-supplied SDR-35 PVC pipe. The system is used to convert uneven and otherwise unusable terrain into a level area suitable for decking with Tile Tech’s easy-to-install deck pavers. They come in two varieties — standard adjustable pedestals and hybrid adjustable pedestals — and are engineered to work perfectly with all of our decking materials, including deck pavers, paver trays, cool roof pavers, roof plant trays and more.

2. The Difference Between Adjustable and Fixed-Height Pedestals

There are two primary types of pedestals used to create raised decking: adjustable pedestals and fixed-height pedestals. Which one is right for you will depend on the landscaping you’re working with and the goal of your project.

Fixed pedestals are all one consistent height. Their primary use is to create an airflow space between the building surface and the deck pavers. You can stack the pedestals to adjust the height needed, but the pedestals themselves are not adjustable. As such, they’re ideal for raised decking with an already-level support surface.

Adjustable pedestals do as the name suggests — they adjust. They can be adjusted to reach up to 36 inches in height. Their biggest advantage is that they can be used to level out uneven terrain, such as a sloping backyard. With the versatility of adjustable pedestals, you can turn any surface into your perfect, level outdoor deck or patio.

3. How to Install Porcelain Pavers on Adjustable Pedestals

Tile Tech’s adjustable roof pedestals were specially engineered to make deck paver installation a breeze. Whether you have professional contractors or are doing it yourself, following these steps will create your perfect deck system in no time:

• Make sure your underlying surface is perfectly clean and smooth. Create a 2-inch slope to avoid water stagnation and ensure proper drainage.
• Use chalk to map out the placement of your deck pavers, keeping in mind the width of the spacers.
• Place your adjustable pedestals around the perimeter and intersections of where you’ll lay the porcelain deck pavers.
• Lay your Tile Tech porcelain pavers on the roof pedestals, ensuring that they’re level against the pacers, and snap them into place.

Tile Tech is proud to be a leader in raised decking and deck pavers, manufacturing one of the easiest-to-use deck systems on the market. If you’d like to learn more about Tile Tech’s full range of products and services, including porcelain outdoor tiles and adjustable pavers, give us a call at (888) 380-5575 or fill out our online contact form. We’re always happy to provide you with a free product sample, catalog or quote for your next project.