Elevated terrace with concrete pavers - a durable solution for outdoor applications

Concrete pavers on a terrace, along with gres pavers, are the most common choice when it comes to finishing a terrace. What should you pay attention to when selecting a paver?

What is a raised deck terrace made of concrete pavers?

A raised deck terrace made of concrete pavers is one of the most durable and stable solutions used in residential and commercial construction. Thanks to their mass, resistance, and versatility, concrete pavers work perfectly both on the ground and on rooftop terraces.

Combined with a terrace pedestal system, they create a durable structure resistant to weather conditions and intensive use.

If you want to learn the basics of the technology:

→ See also: What is a raised deck terrace

Close-up of adjustable pedestals standard solver under concrete pavers

Raised deck terrace

This is a system in which the surface made of concrete pavers is laid on pedestals, without the use of adhesive mortars.

The structure consists of:

  • concrete pavers,
  • terrace pedestals,
  • substrate (concrete, roof, ground),
  • optional accessories (e.g., shims, spacers).

Thanks to this, a ventilation space is created under the pavers, which allows water drainage and reduces the risk of damage.

→ See also: Substructure of a raised deck terrace - what does it consist of and how to design it?

Concrete pavers with chamotte laid on a substructure of adjustable pedestals Revision of concrete pavers on a raised deck terrace with ventilation

Why choose concrete pavers?

Concrete pavers are distinguished by very good technical parameters.

The most important advantages:

  1. high mechanical strength
  2. large mass – greater stability in wind
  3. resistance to frost and moisture
  4. anti-slip surface
  5. wide selection of formats and colors

Thanks to these properties, they are often used in:

  • development projects,
  • public terraces,
  • spaces with high loads.
Terrace pedestals max from solver under concrete pavers on a public investment Adjustable pedestals standard for concrete pavers on a raised deck terrace

Construction of a raised deck terrace with concrete pavers

The raised deck terrace system with concrete pavers is simple and quick to install.

Layer layout:

  1. substrate (ground / concrete / roof)
  2. adjustable pedestals
  3. concrete pavers

Pavers are most often laid on four corners, and for larger formats, additional central support is used.

Layout diagram of pedestals under pavers on a sloped substrate

Pedestals for concrete pavers

The selection of pedestals is crucial for the stability of the structure.

In the case of concrete pavers, it is worth paying attention to:

  • large base surface area
  • high load capacity
  • height adjustment capability
  • compatibility with joint spacers

In professional projects, it is worth considering the load capacity of the pedestals, especially when additional loads are anticipated.

→ See also: Adjustable terrace pedestals - application, construction and selection rules

→ See also: Support pads for terrace pavers – when to use and how to choose?

Concrete terrace and water drainage

One of the greatest advantages of the raised deck terrace system is effective water drainage.

Water first flows through the gaps between the pavers. It then reaches the substrate, which (in the case of ground) absorbs the water, or drains it over the waterproofing layer to drains.

The absence of adhesive and grout eliminates the risk of cracks and surface detachment, as water has no way to accumulate within the structure.

→ See also: Installation of the terrace without permanent gluing

Terrace pedestals solver under light concrete terrace pavers substructure Laid terrace pedestals ready for laying concrete pavers Laying light concrete pavers on standard adjustable pedestals

Stability and wind resistance

Thanks to their large mass, concrete pavers are less susceptible to being lifted than, for example, lightweight porcelain tiles.

However, in the case of open terraces on tall buildings, it is worth using additional safeguards.

→ See also: Protecting a raised deck terrace from wind - how to prevent pavers from being lifted?

View of a concrete paver terrace on a tall building Stone pavers on the roof of the museum terrace on adjustable pedestals solver Aerial view of a terrace on a usable flat roof with gres tiles on pedestals

Where does a raised deck terrace with concrete pavers work best?

This solution is particularly recommended for:

  • terraces on the ground,
  • balconies and loggias,
  • rooftop terraces,
  • public and commercial spaces.

Thanks to its durability, it works well in high-traffic areas.

→ See also: Roof terrace - how to build a raised deck terrace step by step

Standard pedestals on concrete pavers on a flat usable roof

Most common mistakes

When designing a terrace, it is worth paying attention to the critical points of the project that may require additional protection. The most common mistakes are:

  • lack of additional support for large formats
  • incorrect spacing of pedestals
  • lack of waterproofing protection
  • mismatch of the system to the loads
  • lack of expansion joints at walls

Summary

A raised deck terrace made of concrete pavers is above all easy and quick to install, requiring no special maintenance. It combines high durability with resistance to weather conditions.

It is one of the most versatile systems used in both private and commercial construction.

If you are looking for a durable and proven solution, concrete pavers on terrace pedestals are one of the best choices.

Terrace pedestals standard on a usable flat roof with concrete pavers