Raised floors have many advantages and pedestal systems are the key to getting the job done quickly, easily and inexpensively. One feature of pedestal systems that is often overlooked is the ability to use pedestal systems on a sloped environment. Now you can build level raised floors, patios or even decks on a slope with little trouble.

Read on to learn how to use pedestal systems on a sloped environment.

Pedestals are typically offered in three types – fixed height, adjustable and stackable. Depending on the situation, each type of pedestal has a purpose although due to their flexibility, most find that adjustable pedestals are the most useful and versatile.

To determine the number of pedestals needed for your project, count the number of tiles you’ll be installing across the length and width of the space and add one to each of these numbers. Finally, multiply these numbers together to get the number of pedestals your project will require. For example: If your finished design is 6 tiles long x 5 tiles wide, you will need 42 pedestals. Keep in mind that intricate designs with smaller tiles such as around the perimeter will add to your pedestal count.

Most pedestal systems offer the ability to adjust for height and correct for slope. For height, some offer the ability to stack components, while others are adjustable. When it comes to slope, look for adjustable heads or self-levelling heads that can correct for slopes of up to 5-degrees.

See how easy it is to use pedestal systems on a sloped environment!

When choosing a pedestal system with a bottom slope corrector:

  1. Position your pedestal where you need it to be.
  2. Place your laser level on top of it.
  3. Read the laser level to determine the percentage and direction of the slope. In this example, we’ll use a 3-degree slope.
  4. Adjust the slope corrector on your pedestal to 3-degrees. Some pedestals have pre-stamped markings indicating individual degrees of slope as well as directional arrows.
  5. Affix or engage any circular or rectangular tabs your pedestal system uses for tile alignment.
  6. Place the slope corrector on the ground in the direction of the slope and then position the pedestal on top.

When choosing a pedestal system with a top slope corrector:

  1. Position your laser level where the pedestal will stand to determine the direction of the slope to be corrected and the degree of angle required. In this example, we will use a 3-degree slope.
  2. Mark the direction of the slope on the surface with chalk.
  3. Adjust the slope corrector on your pedestal to 3-degrees. Some pedestals have pre-stamped markings indicating individual degrees of slope along with directional arrows.
  4. Affix the top slope corrector to the pedestal and engage any tabs required for tile placement.
  5. Position the pedestal with the directional arrow pointing in the direction of the slope under the corner of the tile.
  6. Adjust the pedestal to the necessary height.

These same products can also be used to create a slope in your project. For those who wish to create sloped surfaces, for example, walking surfaces, drainage or ramps, pedestals are the ideal product to complete this task.