Compare Archatrak Pedestal Paver Support System Options

Key Considerations when Choosing a Paver Support System

Load Bearing Capacity

Most plastic adjustable pedestals will easily support normal pedestrian traffic, but for extra heavy-duty rooftop deck support applications, steel pedestals may be required. No pedestal system installations however are designed for vehicular traffic, although they may support the occasional use by wheeled delivery or maintenance equipment.

Deck Height & Slope Adjustment

Elevated deck pedestal systems will generally provide height adjustment either by stacked fixed components, screw adjustable columns, cut lengths of PVC pipe or a hybrid system combining the latter two adjustment methods. Each pedestal paver system has its merits, depending on the application.
Slope adjustment with adjustable pedestals is accomplished either with add in rings, components added to the head or base of the pedestals or most conveniently, by means of self levelling heads.

Ease of Installation of Pedestal Systems

For contractors, pedestal paver systems should have as few components as possible and ideally supplied fully assembled. The requirement to add in extra spacer tabs, rubber shims or slope adjustment components for rooftop deck supports should be avoided. Where there is substantial variation in the cavity height between the substrate and the underside of the pavers, a pedestal paver system with as few models to cover the height range is preferable.

Compatibility with Paver Materials

Most deck pedestal systems are compatible with the pedestal paver materials most commonly used on elevated decks – porcelain pavers, concrete pavers, wood pavers. If using adjustable pedestals to support wood joists or a metal rail support system, a special bracket installed on the pedestal head will be required. Pavers should be as consistent in thickness as possible although thin shims which can be fitted in quadrants on the pedestal head can be used to correct small height differences.

Environmental & Fire Safety Considerations

The vast majority of deck pedestal systems are constructed with plastic components, most commonly polyethylene, polypropylene or PVC. While these products may contain fire retardant additives, for a totally non-combustible elevated decking solution, it will be necessary to use metal adjustable pedestals such as Archatrak’s ‘Incendio’ steel pedestals.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using a pedestal paver system for rooftop decks?

Pedestal paver systems offer several advantages as rooftop deck supports. They can guarantee a level surface over sloped substrates, facilitate excellent drainage, and cover pipework, ducting and utility lines.  Additionally, they allow for easy access to utilities beneath the deck and the ability to replace any paver quickly and easily if damage should occur.

​How do adjustable pedestals accommodate different deck heights and slopes?​

Adjustable pedestals are designed to support pavers at varying heights either by screwed columns or cut lengths of PVC pipe, making them ideal for use over surfaces with slopes or irregularities. They can be finely tuned to achieve the desired elevation and ensure a perfectly level deck surface, even on substrates with significant slope variations.

Are Archatrak’s pedestal systems compatible with all types of pavers?

Yes, Archatrak’s pedestal paver systems are versatile and compatible with various pedestal paver materials, including porcelain, wood, and concrete. This compatibility allows for customized design solutions tailored to specific aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.

Does the installation of pedestal systems require experienced contractors?

Most of our elevated decking solutions are installed by roofing contractors or tile installation contractors, many who have never worked with adjustable pedestals before. Generally the installation of pedestal systems in not a DIY task since cutting the pavers requires specialist saws and experience in working with pavers.