Tips for installing a terrace on pedestals

Installing a terrace on adjustable pedestals is a quick, accessible and modern solution for creating an attractive garden or outdoor space. This practical guide takes you through the installation process step by step, from preparing the substrate to laying decking boards or tiles.

Thanks to our tips, you will have all the information you need to create a durableand aesthetically pleasing installation, whether you are an experienced DIY enthusiast or a beginner.

Tile thickness or type of joist

For a tiled terrace, the thickness of the paving material is an important consideration. It is strongly recommended to choose ceramic tiles with a minimum thickness of 2 cm, or even 3 cm for certain more fragile types of natural stone. Installing thinner tiles on our adjustable pedestals is not recommended, as they may not be sufficiently resistant to loads and impacts and could therefore crack.

If you opt for a wooden or composite decking terrace, choosing the right joists is just as important.

The joists form the structural framework of your terrace. It is therefore essential to use a rot-resistant material, such as tropical hardwood, class 4 treated timber or aluminium, so that the structure can withstand moisture. The cross-sectional dimensions of the joists are also important, as they help determine the maximum spacing between the pedestals. Correct sizing ensures sufficient rigidity and prevents the structure from sagging.

Determining these aspects correctly in advance is the first step towards a successful installation. More information can be found in the following article:

Perfectly stable support is essential to guarantee the lifespan and safety of your terrace. To help you with this, we developed an online calculator that calculates the number of pedestals you need based on the dimensions of your tiles.

The basic rule for standard tile sizes from 300 x 300 mm onwards is to place an adjustable pedestal under each corner of the tile. However, when tile dimensions exceed 600 x 600 mm, the centre of the tile becomes more vulnerable. In this case, it is important to place an additional adjustable pedestal in the centre to prevent bending or breakage under load.

For more complex situations, such as non-square tiles (rectangular tiles) or very large formats, support at individual points may not always be sufficient. When optimum support across the entire surface is required, the Structusolaluminium support system is the most reliable and recommended solution.

The open sides of the terrace also require extra attention, as tiles can move more easily in these areas. For a secure finish, we recommend using our self-adhesive Sticksol top plate. Thanks to its bituminous adhesive layer, it is fixed beneath the tile and onto the pedestal. This prevents lateral movement and creates a neat and durable finish.

In the case of wooden terraces, the type of beam plays a less crucial role compared to tiles.

Positioning the pedestals

When installing a terrace with tiles or decking, the pedestals should ideally be positioned 40 to 60 cm apart. This spacing ensures optimum support for the terrace.

Load-bearing capacity of the pedestals

SOLIDOR pedestals are designed to withstand heavy loads. With a load-bearing capacity of 2,400 kg/m², they provide a strong and reliable base for your terrace project.

Different considerations apply depending on the height of the terrace. If you have any questions or if the height exceeds 200 mm, you can always contact us for advice.

Suitable substrates for pedestals

Pedestals can be installed on various types of substrate, including compacted gravel, stabilised sand, screed or concrete.

They are an attractive alternative to traditional installation methods using products such as tile adhesive. Because water can drain away freely, the risk of joints cracking due to freezing water is reduced.

However, placing pedestals directly on a sandy surface is not recommended.

How can you prevent standing water beneath the terrace?

One of the major advantages of a terrace installed on pedestals is its natural drainage. The open space beneath the terrace allows air to circulate and ensures effective rainwater drainage.

The rainwater flows down through the joints between the tiles or decking boards and then follows the slope of the substrate or supporting concrete slab.

This system helps prevent standing water, protects the wooden supporting structure from moisture and therefore extends the lifespan of the terrace.

Which type of terrace should you choose?

The choice of terrace covering depends on your budget and the desired aesthetic result.

• Tiled terrace: With ceramic tiles, natural stone or concrete, the tile is placed directly on top of the pedestal. The integrated spacers automatically ensure a consistent joint width.
• Wooden or composite terrace: For a terrace made from natural wood or composite decking boards, a supporting structure consisting of joists is first secured to the pedestals. The decking boards are then screwed onto this structure.

Which tools do you need to install a terrace on pedestals?

Using the right tools makes the installation process considerably easier. These are the main tools you will need:

• A tape measure and pencil for measuring.
• A chalk line for accurate alignment.
• A spirit level or laser level to check flatness and height.
• A drill/driver for securing the supporting structure.
• A circular saw or jigsaw for cutting decking boards or tiles to size.
• A rubber mallet for carefully adjusting tiles without damaging them.