Hotel Del Coronado Porcelain Pavers 14

3 Important Facts About Installing Porcelain Outdoor Tiles on Adjustable Pedestals

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.

Porcelain Pavers Travertine WEB

Important Facts About Slip Resistance in Porcelain Outdoor Tiles

Porcelain outdoor tiles are one of the most popular hardscaping materials on the market because of their remarkable durability and functional benefits. Without sacrificing any aesthetic appeal, they boast numerous functional advantages over natural stone and other landscaping materials. One of the biggest benefits of porcelain outdoor tiles is their slip resistance. Whether used for pool deck tiles or exposed to heavy rainfall, porcelain pavers will remain less slippery than other comparable materials, making your paver deck safer for guests and family members. But before you run out to buy your pavers, here’s what you should know about the slip resistance of porcelain outdoor tiles.

How is slip resistance tested?

Porcelain paver manufacturers can’t simply claim that their porcelain outdoor tiles are slip-resistant; they need to have quantifiable proof that what they’re saying is true. All porcelain paver manufacturers will subject their pavers to external tests which will provide an exact idea of their level of slip resistance. One test is a pendulum test, which mimics the way a heel would make contact with the floor. The Ceramic Tile Institute of America recommends a minimum pendulum test value of 36 for all level floors. Tile Tech’s porcelain pavers far exceeded this recommended result in every test performed.

How does surface texture factor into slip resistance?

The smoother a surface is, the more likely it is to become slippery when wet. That’s why porcelain pavers tend to be made with a relatively rough or textured surface versus the smooth, ceramic-like finish of other paving tiles. Each porcelain paver series will vary slightly in its surface texture and, therefore, its slip resistance, but these differences are relatively minor. If you’re seeking the number-one most slip-resistant porcelain paver possible, your manufacturer will tell you which product in their catalog best fits your needs.

What are the pros of porcelain pavers for wet areas?

Porcelain pavers have numerous benefits in addition to their slip resistance. They are also fire resistant and resistant to freeze-thaw cracking, so they can withstand even the harshest weather and storms. They also stay cooler to the touch than natural stone, making them perfect for pool deck applications or other areas where bare feet, pets, or children may be common. 

Their extreme durability also makes them beloved by installers and property owners; they are load-bearing and boast superior wear resistance, so it’s extremely difficult to crack, chip, or otherwise break porcelain outdoor tiles. In the case that one is damaged, however, Tile Tech’s adjustable deck supports make it easy to remove and replace only the tiles that are damaged.

Which pavers are best for pool deck pavers?

All of Tile Tech’s porcelain pavers are suitable for pool deck applications. Which series you choose will depend largely on the aesthetic style you’re aiming for and your home’s unique functional needs. Travertine porcelain pavers are one of the most common styles chosen for pool deck pavers because they have the light, bright, and elegant appearance of real travertine stone but with all of the practical benefits of porcelain outdoor tiles. 

Whether you’re renovating your rooftop deck, pool deck, or commercial plaza, Tile Tech’s porcelain outdoor tiles will suit any project. To learn more about Tile Tech’s full range of products and services, including slip-resistant porcelain 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.

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3 Things to Know When Considering Pool Coping Tiles

Fall and winter are the best times of year to renovate or build your swimming pool so it’s ready to enjoy by summer! If you’re preparing to give your backyard pool a facelift, then you first need to choose which materials are best for bringing your vision to life. These materials range from water features and lights to pool coping tiles. Although smaller details like pool coping may not seem exciting, they’re an integral part of your pool that makes a big difference in the final look of your residential or commercial outdoor space. If you’re considering which pool coping tiles to choose for your next project, here are three things you need to know before you get started.

1. Why you need pool coping tiles

Although sometimes neglected in favor of the more prevalent pool deck tiles, pool coping is an integral part of every swimming pool’s aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. The pool’s coping is the material above the tile line that protects a pool’s edging. It covers the edges of the pool from any potential wear and tear, and it assists in drainage by helping water flow away from the pool and into deck drains. From a functional perspective, it also assists in enhancing safety and comfort for the swimmers; pool coping can make the pool entrance more slip-resistant and cooler to the touch for more comfortable sitting. Pool coping also helps create a seamless look between the pool and the deck that is pleasing to the eye. It ties together your pool wall, pool deck, and other outdoor elements for a more cohesive landscape design.

2. How to choose the right pool coping tiles

Understanding the importance of pool coping, you now know that you need to choose the right pool coping material to successfully achieve the aesthetic and structural goals you have for your swimming pool. Concrete is one of the most popular choices for pool coping tiles because of its high durability, low maintenance, reasonable cost, and versatile design options. At Tile Tech, we create pool copings that perfectly match our Granite-Tech and Stamp-Tech concrete paving tiles so you can achieve a seamless, modern design. You can also mix our concrete pool coping tiles with our best-selling porcelain outdoor tiles for a pool deck that offers the utmost functional benefits and aesthetic appeal. 

3. Why you should consult a professional

It can be tempting to try and find affordable pool coping tiles online, but it’s always best to speak to a professional with intimate knowledge of the materials and the industry. Experts like those at Tile Tech will match you with pool coping materials that are the best fit for your budget, landscape design, and functional needs. They can also coordinate with your other contractors to ensure that the entire process goes smoothly and results in a cohesive final design. At Tile Tech, we can even customize pool deck tiles for you to bring your pool to life exactly as you’ve envisioned it.

No matter what size, color, or edge shape you choose for your pool coping tiles, Tile Tech Pavers has everything you need to achieve the pool of your dreams. We can pair our pool copings with our porcelain and concrete pool deck tiles, adjustable deck supports, and stair treads to make your outdoor oasis a reality. To find out more about product availability, 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.

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5 Key Differences Between Natural Stone and Porcelain Outdoor Tiles

Hardscaping is a popular landscaping solution for a wide range of applications, from residential pool decks to commercial rooftop decks and plazas. However, hardscaping includes a vast range of materials, including varieties of natural stone and porcelain outdoor tiles. With virtually endless options, how do you know which solution is right for you? Here are five key differences between natural stone and porcelain pavers that can help you decide which material is right for your paver deck.

1. Aesthetics

The overall style of your outdoor space will, in part, help dictate which materials are best for your raised decking. If you’re envisioning a more traditional outdoor patio, then bluestone pavers may be the right choice for you. If you’re aiming for a bright, Mediterranean feel, travertine pavers are the way to go. If you want something rustic, wood-look porcelain pavers are perfect. For something more modern, Tile Tech’s Slate Series porcelain outdoor tiles are a great fit. Each stone, whether natural or porcelain, will bring with it its own unique set of visual characteristics that make it best suited to different projects. Figuring out your patio’s design scheme overall will help guide you toward an outdoor tile that suits your style for years to come and blends seamlessly with your other renovations.

2. Ease of Installation

One aspect of your paver deck that may dictate which material you choose is the amount of time, effort, and money that you have to dedicate to the project. If these factors are limitless, then natural stone is a great way to go and will offer a luxury feel, although it will also likely have a luxury price tag. However, if you want to save as much time and money as possible without sacrificing quality, porcelain outdoor tiles are a fantastic choice because of their easy installation. Tile Tech’s porcelain pavers can be paired with our adjustable deck supports for an installation process that can be done in as little as a few hours. Requiring fewer man-hours will save you significant money that you can allocate elsewhere in your renovation — or you can even DIY the patio installation!

3. Cost

One of the biggest factors for many property owners when building a new paver deck is the cost. If you’re on a budget, then porcelain outdoor tiles offer you all the benefits of natural stone at far less cost. While some have the misconception that this means the quality will also be less, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Porcelain pavers are more durable and require less maintenance than natural stone, so they’re a much smarter investment for many property owners. Plus, as we mentioned above, the reduced installation time translates to additional savings.

4. Durability

If you’re creating a pool deck or other high-traffic areas that will be exposed to the elements, then you want the most durable materials possible. Porcelain outdoor tiles are one of the most popular choices for pool deck pavers because they’re non-porous and slip-resistant, making them safer and better for poolside applications than natural stone. They also stay cooler underfoot, ensuring that your kids or guests are safe and comfortable while enjoying their time outside.

5. Maintenance Requirements

In addition to your initial project budget, you’ll also need to consider long-term costs and maintenance requirements when choosing which paving tiles are best for your paver deck. Natural stone can be tricky and high maintenance because they can stain, crack, and require sealing to stay pristine. Porcelain outdoor tiles, on the other hand, have minimal upkeep, making your life much easier and saving you money. Plus, Tile Tech’s installation system makes it easy to remove and repair or replace individual tiles if they become damaged. 

Natural stone and porcelain pavers each have their own benefits, but porcelain outdoor tiles have gained rapid popularity in recent years thanks to their stunning appearance, superior durability, installation time, cost, and maintenance levels. Not to mention, there are hundreds of different styles and colors to choose from — some of which replicate the appearance of natural stone. If you’d like to learn more about Tile Tech’s full range of products and services, including porcelain outdoor tiles, 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.

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Turf Roof Decks: What to Know Before Installing

Creating rooftop gardens is a great way to add value to your property and attract guests or tenants. Especially in cities where green space is scarce, turning your rooftop into a usable and verdant living space is immensely valuable and worth the investment. To reduce the maintenance of rooftop decks and ensure that they stay green all year long, many property owners opt for artificial grass over natural grass or plant life. Combining state-of-the-art synthetic turf with Tile Tech’s artificial turf trays made specifically for rooftop deck installation makes it incredibly easy and affordable to achieve your dream rooftop. Before you start laying down your turf, here’s what you should know for the best installation possible.

Existing Damage

Before you begin your project, check the roof for any damage or rot. It’s never recommended that you install artificial turf over a damaged roof because any leaks or other issues become more difficult to repair once your roof has been transformed. If you do have damage, make sure you thoroughly repair it before moving ahead with an artificial grass rooftop deck.

Drainage

Once you’ve confirmed that there is no damage to the roof, check your roof’s drainage to ensure that all water has somewhere to flow for removal. Any pooled water could damage your artificial turf and result in mold, mildew, or roof leaks, so if you notice pooled water on your rooftop, address your roof’s drainage before continuing with your project. Luckily, the majority of rooftops are designed with water flow in mind and will have adequate drainage for a turf roof deck.

Installation Method

Normally, artificial grass is installed on rooftops using an intricate and costly framing method. However, Tile Tech’s Turf-Tray system eliminates the need for extensive framing and sticky adhesive. Our turf trays can be used in conjunction with our adjustable deck supports to create raised decking that can be quickly installed by snapping each tray into place on the adjustable pedestals. Not only does this make initial installation a breeze, but the grid tile system also makes it easy to remove and replace a section of turf if it becomes stained or damaged. At Tile Tech, we have everything you need to complete your rooftop deck installation efficiently, including adjustable deck supports, turf trays, and a variety of market-leading synthetic grass products.

Furniture Placement

The final thing to consider when installing artificial grass on your rooftop deck is the placement of heavy furniture. Large furniture such as tables, chairs, and bars will leave imprints on your turf, where its blades will flatten over time. To prevent this, we recommend moving around any heavy furniture every few months and cross-brushing your turf. You should also avoid placing barbecues, fire pits, or other items with hot embers on synthetic turf, but this issue can be avoided by mixing artificial turf trays with porcelain outdoor tiles so you can still enjoy these amenities without compromising on beautiful synthetic turf landscaping. 

Rooftop decks are a valuable amenity for any modern building, and adding vibrant greenery in the form of synthetic grass will only further bolster your property’s value without adding on additional maintenance. If you want an easy-to-install rooftop deck solution within budget, look no further than Tile Tech and our innovative Turf-Tray system. To learn more about the many products and services Tile Tech offers, 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.

Travertine Cross Cut Silver Porcelain Pavers Rooftop Deck 01

Balconies & Terraces: What’s the Difference?

A balcony is a terrace is a patio is a deck, right? Actually, not quite. Although the terms “balcony” and “terrace” are often used interchangeably, they aren’t technically the same thing. There are key differences such as size, location, and construction that set them apart and may make one option more suitable for your property than another. Keep reading to learn more about these differences and learn which is right for you and your porcelain paver installation.

What is a terrace?

The word “terrace” comes from the Latin word for earth, “terra”. It’s defined as an external, raised, open, flat area as part of either a landscape or a building. The key thing to note is that a terrace is at ground level, but it tends to be slightly raised from the ground, usually built on the edge of a hill or cliff. A terrace is similar to a patio, but a patio is built upon flat, level ground versus the slight elevation of a terrace.

What is a balcony?

The word “balcony” derives from the Italian word for “large window,” as these structures were most often accessed via large windows before sliding doors became the more popular form of entry. A balcony is a platform projecting from the wall of a building, usually surrounded by a wall or railing. Balconies typically offer outdoor space for rooms above the ground floor. Balconies can be found in single-family homes, but they are most often associated with apartments, hotels, and condos.

What are the key differences?

The three main differences between a balcony and a terrace are location, size, and construction. The most notable difference, which you likely picked up on over the previous two paragraphs, is the location of the two structures in terms of elevation. Terraces are built at the ground level, whereas balconies are almost exclusively built at the second story and above. The only exception to this is a roof terrace, which is built on top of the building’s roof.

Another significant difference is size. Terraces are typically much larger than balconies, and therefore more ideal for socializing. It’s best for large venues and areas intended for get-togethers. Balconies, on the other hand, tend to be smaller and accommodate two to three people at the most. 

Finally, a significant difference lies in the construction of the two. A terrace can be built as a standalone structure, either attached to the side of a building or built floating in the middle of a greenspace. A balcony, however, needs to be affixed to the side of a building in order to maintain its structure, since it’s elevated above ground level.

Whether you want to renovate your balcony, terrace, plaza, deck, or patio, Tile Tech has you covered. We have hundreds of market-leading outdoor paving tiles that will suit any functionality, budget, and design style. Paired with our innovative deck support system, you can have the hardscaping of your dreams in just a matter of hours. To learn more about Tile Tech’s full range of products and services, 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.

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Project Spotlight: The Sterling Private Residences — Chicago, IL

Tile Tech’s 5-star reputation for its industry-leading paver products has earned us an esteemed list of clients, each trusting us to help make their ambitious projects a reality. One such client is one of Chicago’s premier apartment buildings, The Sterling Private Residents, and their installer, C.R. Schmidt, Inc.

The Sterling, located in the sought-after River North neighborhood of Chicago, stands at 50 stories tall, just feet from the Chicago River. With luxury amenities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, sun deck, and two tennis courts, The Sterling offers its residents nothing less than the absolute best. With that standard in mind, C.R. Schmidt chose to install Tile Tech’s porcelain pavers in combination with our wind uplift paver system in order to complete the project to the highest standard.

When renovating the 14th-floor deck — the floor on which all of the building’s amenities are located — The Sterling’s team chose Tile Tech’s Rustic Maple wood-effect porcelain pavers for the 4,400 square foot project. It was chosen for its lightweight properties as well as its aesthetic value. Since the deck was used for socializing, the designers were looking for a tile that would look beautiful and stand up against Chicago’s unfavorable weather conditions.

Photo: C.R. Schmidt, Inc.

Tile Tech’s Hex-Tray wind and safety system was used in conjunction with porcelain pavers for its ability to combat the Windy City’s worst weather patterns. Having won the 2017 Hardscape North America Award for Best Commercial Porcelain Paver Project, the Hex-Tray system prevents wind-uplift while also providing added safety in case of broken pavers. Its high wind uplift resistance was made to withstand even the most severe conditions, so The Sterling had confidence that it would do the job for their 14th-floor amenity deck. 

Whether renovating a luxury apartment amenity terrace or installing a backyard deck, Tile Tech is proud to work with homes and businesses throughout the country on projects of all sizes and budgets. We have repeatedly established ourselves as a reliable and trustworthy partner, and our commitment to excellence is reflected in our innovative product line as well as our 5-star installation service. To learn more about the many products and services Tile Tech offers, 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.

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What Makes Tile Tech’s Adjustable Pedestal System the Best?

With the housing market exploding and prices rising every day, homeowners are looking for ways to upgrade their current home in order to increase its value as well as its usable square footage. As a result, hundreds of people are discovering the versatility of outdoor paving tiles and deck support systems for maximizing livable outdoor space. However, with so many companies offering similar products, how do you know which are the best fit for your home? In this blog, we’ll outline why Tile Tech’s standard deck pedestals and hybrid deck pedestals are the best deck support systems on the market, whether you have a residential or commercial property.

Ease of Installation

One of the biggest factors that deter homeowners from leveling their deck or rooftop is the amount of time, effort, and cost that they think it will require. However, Tile Tech’s adjustable pedestal system was specifically created to be as hassle-free and user-friendly as possible. Our foolproof system can be used by contractors and first-time DIY’ers alike to achieve a perfectly level outdoor deck in just a matter of hours. The supports were also created to be integrated seamlessly with our range of paver tiles, so the tiles can be quickly snapped into place for a professional-looking deck that’s suitable for homes or businesses.

Self-Leveling

Part of what makes our deck pedestals so easy to use is their self-leveling properties. The self-level head on each pedestal allows for slope compensation of 0 percent to 4 percent in any direction. A T-handle tool will allow for raising and leveling while loaded with pavers, eliminating the need to remove pavers in order to make adjustments. The stack caps also allow for minor height adjustments from 0.5 inches up to 2 inches and can compensate for slopes of 0 percent to 3 percent by aligning the built-in slope compensator of one cap relative to another. This makes leveling your deck incredibly easy, saving you man-hours and endless frustration without sacrificing an impeccable final product.

Height Adjustment

As mentioned before, the adjustable deck supports can also be adjusted to different heights in order to level out sloped terrain or elevate a deck above ground level. Each pedestal can vary in height up to 36 inches depending on the pieces used. In addition to leveling out a hilled area, this adjustable pedestal system also enables you to create a gap underneath your elevated deck that can be used to conceal wiring, drainage systems, and other functional necessities that would otherwise serve as eyesores.

Versatility

No matter what function or design scheme you’re aiming to achieve with your outdoor deck, our adjustable deck supports work for every property. They pair perfectly with any of our outdoor paving tiles — whether you’re seeking a wood deck, a travertine deck, a concrete deck, or anything else. No matter what Tile Tech Paver style or material you choose for your flooring, you can use it in conjunction with Tile Tech’s pedestal system to achieve your landscaping vision.

Tile Tech’s premier deck support system is a favorite among contractors and developers nationwide because of its ease of use, versatility, cost, and quality. If you want only the best for your property and its elevated outdoor deck, there’s no better choice. Give us a call at (888) 380-5575 or fill out our online contact form to learn more about our full range of products, including adjustable pedestals. We’re always happy to provide you with a free product sample, catalog, or quote for your next project.

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Choosing the Best Paving Tiles for Your Rooftop Deck

If you want to get every usable square foot possible out of your property, creating a rooftop deck is an ideal solution. Whether you want a rooftop pool, a lounge space, an urban garden, or even a concert venue, anything’s possible with durable and cost-effective Tile Tech pavers. Here are some of the best paving tiles for residential or commercial roof decks.

Porcelain Pavers

Porcelain pavers are one of the best-selling products at Tile Tech because of their unbeatable versatility and durability. They’re the perfect fit for almost all applications, including roof decks. Whether you want to makeover your home’s roof into a space for relaxing, or create a rooftop restaurant for your hotel, porcelain pavers can handle it all. They’re beautiful and elegant, with a wide range of finishes to choose from that replicate the look of wood, stone, slate, travertine, and more. Available in dozens of different colors, textures, and finishes, they’re guaranteed to work cohesively with any outdoor environment. They’re also fireproof, stain-resistant, fade-resistant, and mold-resistant, making them a versatile, low-maintenance product suitable for exterior projects in any climate. 

Ipe Wood Deck Tiles

Rooftop decks are perfect for blending your home or business with the surrounding landscape. That’s part of what makes ipe wood deck pavers perfect for rooftop applications; they offer a rustic feeling that works well with any outdoor oasis you’re envisioning. Made out of certified ipe wood lumber, these interlocking tiles will complement modern or traditional landscaping. They’re also a low-maintenance option; you have the choice to reseal them to preserve the original finish or allow them to weather naturally for a stunning silver-gray hue. 

Turf Trays & Plant Trays

Green roofs can not only serve as a vibrant pop of beautiful greenery, but they can also reduce your utility bills and make your property more environmentally friendly. Tile Tech’s turf trays and plant trays can be used on roof decks to create an outdoor garden that is easy to install, pet-friendly, low maintenance, and incredibly cost-effective. Pair them with our adjustable deck supports and outdoor paving tiles for a well-rounded roof deck that can be installed in record time and with a substantial return on investment.

Adjustable Deck Supports

Our adjustable deck supports make installing a level rooftop deck easier than ever before. However, they can also be used to add multiple levels to your rooftop, creating outdoor stages or platforms. Our deck supports can be adjusted up to two feet high, enabling you to create a more dynamic, functional, multi-level rooftop deck. It results in reduced labor and material costs, helping you bring your vision to life on time and on budget.

If you want to bring your roof deck dreams to life, Tile Tech has everything you need. We have one of the largest inventories of high-quality paving tiles on the market, including adjustable deck supports for a level roof deck every time. To find out more about product availability, 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.

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How to Seal Your Ipe Wood Deck

Ipe wood is one of the most desired hardwoods for exterior projects. Originating from South America, ipe is incredibly dense and durable, and it can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. Ipe wood pavers are one of Tile Tech’s best-selling products, as it combines the benefits of natural ipe wood with the ease of installation and practicalities of the Tile Tech deck system. If you’re considering an ipe wood paver deck for your residential or commercial project, here’s everything you need to know about sealing and maintaining your paving tiles.

Do you need to seal ipe wood pavers?

One of the biggest inconveniences of natural paving materials is the need for sealing them. Most natural stone and wood pavers need to be re-sealed on an annual basis in order to protect their longevity and prevent discoloration. Traditional softwoods are subject to deterioration and rotting since they have an open grain structure that allows water to penetrate deep into the wood. Ipe wood pavers, however, are incredibly dense and don’t require waterproofing sealer. Ipe can be sealed if you’d like to maintain the original color, but many homeowners choose to let the ipe naturally weather to a silvery gray hue over time. With an ipe wood paver deck, sealing is an option but not a requirement.

Benefits of sealing ipe wood

Ipe wood can be sealed in order to maintain its natural color and avoid the silver-gray discoloration. Although ipe wood doesn’t absorb a traditional sealer, a UV protectant can be applied to achieve the same effect. Products such as ipe oil can be applied to keep the sun from bleaching the hardwood paving tiles’ rich brown color. It effectively functions as sunscreen for your ipe wood, protecting it from the harmful effects of the sun.

How to seal ipe wood pavers

If you plan to apply a sealer to your ipe wood, begin by rinsing your ipe wood paver deck. This will ensure that the surface is free from any dust, debris, or pollen when you apply the sealer. Allow your deck time to thoroughly dry, and apply the ipe oil using a brush or roller. Follow any brand-specific instructions listed on the sealer can. Make sure that the sealer is applied thoroughly and evenly throughout the deck. Since ipe wood is so dense, it will only soak up a certain amount of the oil. About 10-20 minutes after the initial application, wipe up any excess with a clean rag. This will keep your deck from getting tacky. 

Ipe wood pavers are a preferred deck system solution due to their design versatility, remarkable durability, and natural beauty. Homeowners and developers nationwide know they can turn to Tile Tech for affordable, high-quality, and easy-to-install ipe wood pavers that can handle any application and match any landscape design. If you’re interested in ipe wood pavers for your next project, give us a call at (888) 380-5575 or fill out our online contact form. We’d be happy to provide you with a free catalog, product sample, or project estimate.