Check the base, loads and available height
Identify a sound slab, granular base or other substrate accepted by the pedestal supplier. Measure clearance below thresholds, height at every corner and areas exposed to concentrated loads.
Adjustment range, load capacity and maximum assembly height are properties of the selected system. Seek technical design for tall assemblies, guarding or heavy loads.
Prepare the base and drainage route
- 1Finished level
- 2Sloping base
- 3Drainage away from the building
Remove soft spots and hollows. Over soil, construct the specified free-draining base; over concrete, clean it and keep outlets accessible. The finished surface can be level while the substrate below drains water.
Calculate excavation for the pedestal baseTesCalculs→Choose the finish and set out its grid
- 1Joists
- 2Pedestals
- 3Centre-to-centre grid
For slabs, support every corner and every cut as specified. For boards, calculate joist lines first and then the pedestals beneath each line. Add edges, joints and local strengthening to the drawing.
Calculate pedestal quantity and layoutTesCalculs→Position the first pedestals
Mark two square datum lines and place the first reference row. Set the four corners, check the diagonals and then add intermediate supports progressively.
Spacing comes from slab format and capacity or from the allowable joist span. Never transfer a grid from one product to another.
Lay and level the surface
- 1Boards
- 2Gap between boards
- 3Length to cover
Work in accessible sections, check that every pedestal is stable and use only the heads and shims designed for the system. Keep joints and required perimeter movement gaps open.
Calculate boards and joists for a pedestal deckTesCalculs→Restrain edges and inspect the assembly
Install the specified lateral restraints without blocking drainage. Test corners, edges, cuts and busy routes for movement, and retain access to gullies and inspection covers.