When you’re building new hardscapes, pedestal systems are a quick, easy and cost-effective way to get the job done, delivering better results and improved aesthetics while saving you money.

The Basics of Pedestal Systems

Types of Pedestals – While there are a variety of pedestal systems on the market, pedestals generally come in three types: fixed height pedestals, adjustable pedestals and stackable pedestals. Your project may require one type of pedestal or even all three. Exceptionally flexible, pedestal systems can accommodate the variety seamlessly, and you can even swap one out later if something goes amiss. You can even bring in pedestals to address support or slope issues in an existing project.

Location – You’ll need to begin with a relatively level, hard surface on which to support your new floating floor. If you have electrical or plumbing conduits running through this area, pedestals make it easy to not only obscure them from view but also access them when required. If your space is not level, adjustable pedestals can be used to accommodate slope, resulting in a perfectly level surface.

Number of Pedestals Required – To find out the number of pedestals you’ll need for your project, count the number of tiles you’ll be installing from end to end and again across. In this example, let’s say your project is 8 tiles long and 6 tiles wide. Add +1 to each of these numbers and multiply them (9×7=63). This is the number of pedestals required for your project.

When you’re building an outdoor raised or floating floor, pedestal systems make the job easy. It really comes down to a few simple steps. Here’s a rundown on how to use pedestal systems on a ground surface:

  • Step 1 – Begin with a solid hard surface that is clean and clear of debris.
  • Step 2 – Determine the height of your finished project. Subtract the thickness of your surface covering (for example 20mm porcelain pavers).
  • Step 3 – Adjust your pedestals to achieve this height
  • Step 4 – Position your pedestals at each corner of where the tile will lay. Using a laser level, ensure each pedestal is level. If you need to account for an uneven surface, use an adjustable pedestal that can accommodate slopes of up to 5-degrees. For more details about how to use pedestals on a sloped environment, refer to this handy guide.
  • Step 5 – Place your tiles or other surface covering on the pedestals, using the tabs on top to maintain proper positioning and uniform spacing.

If something is askew or isn’t as level as you had thought, simply remove the affected tile, and perhaps a couple of adjacent tiles. Readjust the related pedestals for height or slope and verify with a laser level before replacing the tile.

Aside from making quick work of a big job, pedestal systems offer a variety of benefits when using them on a ground surface. Pedestals resist freeze & thaw cycles, keeping your project level year after year. Suitable for virtually any raised flooring project including patios, around the pool or even raised walkways, they’ll also save you time and money in both building and maintenance costs.