Roofs and Patios Come of Age
With Pedestal-mounted Deck Tile Systems
Roofs and Patios Come of Age
With Pedestal-mounted Deck Tile Systems
SPECIES FEATURED IN THIS ARTICLE: Ipé
FIND INFORMATION ON THIS AND ADDITIONAL SPECIES AT WWW.IWPAWOOD.ORG
Ipé decks, patios and roofs have come of age thanks to a simple yet groundbreaking modular tile concept. The concept uses a pedestal mounting system that is versatile, easy to install and extremely cost effective, with Ipé tiles mounted on adjustable bases that are attached to either a flat or pitched surface. The wooden tiles are easily placed and securely attached with heavy-duty plastic pins. Most pedestal models are adjustable in height and can pivot and self-level to accommodate slope.
Not only does this concept eliminate labor, it adds installation flexibility. The pedestals can be adjusted without removing any tiles. “A tool is inserted at the intersection of the tiles that allows adjustment while standing on the tile,” said Wes Robichaud, Business Development Director at Coastal Forest Products, “This eliminates the need to remove the tile again and again when making final adjustments to level a deck.”
The pedestal-mounted model can receive pressure treated joists. In the past, developers used sleeper joists to install roofs on rubber membranes. Because a pedestal is stationary and fits with no lateral movement, wear and tear on a rubber roof is negligible and there is no need for sleepers, according to Robichaud. “The pedestal system offers the option to receive a pedestal joist elevated above the rubber membrane, providing easy access to mechanicals and for cleaning and removing debris,” he said.
“Few things in the construction industry are as easy to move within a building as a 24” x 24” deck tile,” Robichaud noted. Avoiding the labor involved in building a framework and installing deck boards is a huge cost saver. But even beyond that, the square foot cost for deck tiles is minimal compared to conventional decking. “Still, what’s really boosted acceptance of this technique is the ease of use with self-leveling and fact that Ipé deck tiles are now readily available in most markets,” Robichaud said.
See a time lapse installation video.
A pedestal-mounted decking system can be ideal in urban areas to maximize rooftop areas for outdoor living. It is also an ideal application to cover concrete for patios. Ipé is especially well suited around pools since it is not affected by pool chemicals.
And tiles offer unlimited design options. Combining various tile lengths and sizes produces a beautiful aesthetic that enhances any setting. By simply alternating the direction of tiles, a herringbone pattern emerges that resembles parquet flooring.
The supply of resilient hardwoods has remained steady throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Robichaud. Although costs have gone up due to shipping and logistics issues, Ipé offers tremendous value relative to other decking products. For those with environmental concerns or projects qualifying for LEED points, the Iron Woods brand of Timber Holdings USA offers FSC Certified Itauba deck tiles. Itauba is a species similar in color and durability to Ipe that is available with Chain of Custody, FSC Certification and Green by Nature “Due care” compliance.
“We have seen widespread acceptance and uptake of these systems throughout the country, and we expect demand to continue to grow,” Robichaud said. “Just imagine your outdoor kitchen with a gorgeous Ipé parquet floor. Absolutely gorgeous!” iw
Frequently asked questions
What is a pedestal-mounted deck tile system?+
It is a modular decking concept where wooden tiles are mounted on adjustable bases attached to a flat or pitched surface. The tiles are secured with heavy-duty plastic pins, and most pedestals can pivot and self-level to accommodate slope.
How are pedestal deck tiles adjusted after installation?+
A tool is inserted at the intersection of the tiles, allowing adjustment while standing on the tile. This eliminates the need to repeatedly remove tiles when making final leveling adjustments.
Why is Ipé a good choice for rooftop decks and pool areas?+
Ipé is a resilient hardwood that is well suited for pool surrounds because it is not affected by pool chemicals. It also offers tremendous value relative to other decking products and is now readily available in most markets.
Do pedestal systems damage rubber roof membranes?+
No. Because a pedestal is stationary and fits with no lateral movement, wear and tear on a rubber roof is negligible, and there is no need for traditional sleeper joists.
Is there an FSC-certified alternative to Ipé for deck tiles?+
Yes. The Iron Woods brand of Timber Holdings USA offers FSC Certified Itauba deck tiles, a species similar in color and durability to Ipé. It is available with Chain of Custody, FSC Certification, and Green by Nature "Due care" compliance.
What design patterns can be created with Ipé deck tiles?+
Combining various tile lengths and sizes produces unlimited aesthetic options. Simply alternating the direction of tiles creates a herringbone pattern that resembles parquet flooring.