Pedestal pavers, as the name suggests, are paving blocks that are set up on pedestals in order to maintain a gap between the pavers and the ground underneath. Such raised pavers allow for the leveling of uneven surfaces, and also for the free movement of air and the easy drainage of water. These types of pavers are available in concrete, rubber and other materials, and are commonly installed on rooftops, terraces, verandas, balconies, plazas, promenades, and other pedestrian areas.
Rainwater, frost, and heat can have an adverse effect on regular block pavers. Seeping water can cause moisture-related damage to the surface on which the pavers are set, while frost and heat can cause contractions and expansions in the paving materials that may eventually lead to their upheaval and dislodging. Laying pedestal pavers can contain these issues to a large extent. By allowing for the passage of water and air underneath the pavers, it is possible to avoid the damage caused by excess water accumulation or by frosty or heated air getting trapped underneath. This naturally saves on the repair and replacement costs that would be otherwise necessary to prevent wholesale structural deterioration.
Apart from these advantages of pedestal pavers, another benefit is the easy replacement of individual units. There is no need for major construction if a few pavers get damaged. The pavers can also be easily removed if any major maintenance work becomes necessary. Maintaining and cleaning pedestal pavers is easily performed by using regular vacuuming equipment.
The disadvantages of pedestal pavers are comparatively minor. There may be some issues of the paver blocks moving due to wind uplift, but this is an easily solved problem. Another issue is the weight of the block pavers. Before setting up pedestal pavers, it is important to consider if the substrate is structurally sound and if it will be able to support the weight of the pavers; not considering this relevant factor could lead to structural damage at a later stage.
Before laying pedestal pavers, the substrate is first treated with a waterproof application, and then the number of required pavers and pedestals are calculated. The number of pedestals is generally equal to the number of required pavers, but in irregularly-shaped areas more pedestals may be needed. The pedestals are adjusted to the determined height and then the pavers are carefully set. It is important to ensure that all the raised paver units are securely fixed and flush with each other, and to clearly mark the pedestal pavers units over drain openings in order to facilitate drain inspections later on.
