How to Build a Wood Plank Roof Deck with a Pedestal System

Archatrak ‘Prime’ adjustable pedestals can be supplied with a special head specifically designed for supporting wood joists. This enables a traditional wood or composite wood deck using planks that are nailed, screwed or clipped to the joists to be build on a rooftop without needing any wood or steel substructure, other than the bearers to which the deck planks are fixed. The wide diameter of the pedestal base supporting the joists avoids damage to waterproof membranes and ensures stability of the deck installation.

Wood bearers are laid directly over the pedestal heads and screwed to the upright bracket. The height of the bracket is nominally 1 1/8″  but it can be snapped off at a height of 3/4″ if using joists thinner than 1″.

Archatrak ‘Prime’ pedestals feature self leveling heads which can provide automatic slope compensation up to 5% on sloping substrates, thus ensuring the joists are perfectly level with the decking material used. Alternatively, the heads can be locked in a fixed position with an optional head lock component.

The spacing of the pedestals, both parallel and perpendicular to the bearers, should be confirmed with a structural engineer prior to construction. You should also confirm that the roof deck installation complies with all relevant codes and regulations.