How to Install Porcelain Pavers over Concrete Slabs Using Archatrak Rubber Support Pads

Stackable rubber pads are typically used to lay pavers over concrete slabs without using mortar or adhesives, especially where the concrete is cracked and for laying pavers on elevated roof top decks or balconies, up to a height of approx. 1 1/2”

Where the finished deck will slope with the underlying surface, only one size of rubber pad will typically be required – either 1/4″ high PAD6 or 3/8″ high PAD10.

If a perfectly level deck is required, the pads are stacked to build up the height, to a max. of approx. 1 ½”. Above this height, Archatrak ‘Prime’ adjustable height pedestals are more cost effective to use.

All surfaces should be structurally sound with a min. 2° slope pitched away from any building. A restraining wall or barrier should normally be installed on all open sides of the area, although for ground level patio installations, the frictional properties of the rubber pads may often be sufficient to avoid the need for barriers. We suggest using a product such as Schluter BARA-RWL aluminum profile as a restraining barrier since it is supplied with drainage holes along the lower edge of the profile.

The installation procedure for laying pavers without correcting for slope is described below.

Installation Guidelines

01
Starting from the high side of the area, which will typically be against a wall, use chalk to mark the required position of the first row of pads on the concrete surface at approx. 24” intervals (for 24” x 24” pavers) along the wall. Optimize the placement of the pads to avoid sections of cut pavers less than 8” wide on either side of the area.
02
For pads placed along the perimeter, cut pads in half to form semicircles. Retain the two tabs perpendicular to the wall, as well as the two tabs parallel to the wall. At any internal right angle corners, cut pads into quadrants, leaving the two tabs positioned against the wall.
03
Lay the first row of pads in the position previously marked with chalk.
04
Lay a second row of pads approx. 24” from the first row and spaced approx. 24” apart.
05
Place the first row of pavers carefully over the pads, ensuring each paver butts tightly against the spacer tabs. Check that no pavers are rocking. Place segments of 1/16” thick LGH2 rubber shims between the paver and pads to correct as required.
06
Moving in rows over across the deck area, continue to lay pads and then the pavers in a likewise manner.

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