Designing elevated outdoor spaces requires a precise understanding of how a pedestal paver system interacts with the building envelope. For architects and landscape designers, specifying these systems involves balancing structural requirements, drainage efficiency, and aesthetic continuity. This glossary defines the critical components and concepts necessary to successfully implement elevated paving solutions using Acker-Stone’s high-performance concrete units.
The Fundamentals of Elevated Paving
A pedestal paver system is a method of installing pavers on top of adjustable or fixed-height supports, creating a void between the paving surface and the structural roof membrane. This "raised floor" approach is essential for modern roof decks, plazas, and terraces where drainage and weight distribution are primary concerns.
Key Terminology
- Cavity: The open space between the bottom of the paver and the roof membrane. This area allows for the concealment of conduits, pipes, and drainage systems while providing thermal insulation for the building below.
- Dead Load: The permanent weight of the pedestal paver system itself, including the pedestals and the concrete pavers. When specifying large-format units like the 24 x 24 (slug: stock-portfolio--24x24-ca), calculating the dead load is critical for structural engineering approvals.
- Efflorescence: A common occurrence in concrete where soluble salts migrate to the surface. While natural, specifying pavers with advanced protection, such as the Umbriano® 12 x 24 (slug: stock-portfolio--umbriano-12x24-ca) with its Acker-Lock Plus integral sealing, helps shield against moisture-related issues.
- Open Joint: The gap between pavers maintained by the pedestal spacer tabs. Unlike traditional ground-level installations, these joints are left open to allow water to flow directly into the cavity below, preventing ponding on the surface.
- Slope Compensation: The mechanism within a pedestal head or base that adjusts to account for the pitch of the roof (typically for drainage), ensuring the final walking surface is perfectly level.
Selecting Pavers for Pedestal Systems
Not all pavers are suitable for elevated systems. The units must possess high flexural strength to span the distance between pedestals without the support of a compacted base. Large-format slabs are the industry standard for these applications due to their stability and reduced number of support points.
Recommended Acker-Stone Units
- 24 x 24 Moonstone: A popular choice for modern roof decks, providing a clean, expansive look with the structural integrity required for pedestal support (slug: stock-portfolio--24-x-24-moonstone).
- Palazzo Series: Available in 12 x 24 and 24 x 24 sizes, the Palazzo series offers the refined aesthetic required for high-end commercial and residential terraces (slug: stock-portfolio--palazzo-24x24).
- Coastal Series: For projects requiring a unique texture, the Coastal 24 x 24 integrates mother of pearl shells, offering a bright, reflective surface that performs well in sun-exposed rooftop environments (slug: stock-portfolio--coastal-24-x-24).
- 12 x 24 Moonstone: A versatile rectangular format that can be used in running bond patterns on pedestals to create visual length on narrow balconies (slug: stock-portfolio--12-x-24-moonstone).
Technical Specification Table
| Feature | Requirement for Pedestal Systems |
|---|---|
| Minimum Thickness | Typically 2 inches (varies by span) |
| Joint Width | 1/8" to 3/16" (standardized by pedestal tabs) |
| Drainage Strategy | Rapid shedding through open joints |
| Surface Leveling | Achieved via adjustable pedestal heights |
| Access | Individual pavers must be removable for membrane inspection |
Installation Considerations
When specifying a pedestal paver system, the layout must be meticulously planned to ensure perimeter pavers are properly supported. Small cuts should be avoided at the edges to maintain the structural stability of the system. For areas requiring specific safety markings, such as emergency exits on a roof, 12x12 Truncated Domes (slug: stock-portfolio--12x12-truncated-domes-ca) can be integrated into the layout, provided they meet the thickness requirements for the specific pedestal brand being utilized.
Furthermore, the choice of finish can impact the safety and comfort of the space. The Aviano Grande (slug: stock-portfolio--aviano-grande-ca) provides a natural slate texture that offers enhanced slip resistance, which is a vital consideration for outdoor areas exposed to rain or pool splash-over.
Specify It
Ready to integrate an elevated paving system into your next project? Use the AckerStudio AI to filter by size and finish, ensuring your selected paver meets the structural demands of your roof deck design. Contact your regional representative to request samples of the Palazzo or Moonstone series for your submittal packages.