Constructing a deck or patio doesn’t get any easier than using a pedestal system. Pedestals make
installation pretty straightforward and less labour-intensive than other methods. While a pedestal
system is easy to use, even as a DIY’er, there are a few potential mistakes you’ll want to avoid.
Mistake #1. Not Leaving Expansion Space – For those still using wood planks to surface a deck, you need
to remember to leave space for the wood to expand & contract; otherwise, they will overlap & buckle.
Solution: If you really like the look of wood, consider using Bison’s IPE wood tiles installed on top of
pedestals. Not only is this method of building a wood deck easier & faster, but you’ll also need less
space between tiles, only about 1/16”. In fact, when you use Bison pedestals to support the IPE wood
tiles, there is a natural gap built-in, eliminating the need to measure uniform gaps.
Mistake #2. Choosing the Wrong Location – Due to yard limitations, most people have little choice
where their deck will be built. However, installing your deck in an area exposed to weather will cause it
to age more quickly due to the wear & tear of rain, hail and other stressors. A south-facing deck will
cause your wood to dry out, decay and fade to gray due to excessive sun exposure.
Solution: Choosing alternative decking materials like Bison’s porcelain pavers installed on top of the
Bison pedestal system can prevent damage brought on by the elements. Porcelain pavers can easily take
whatever Mother Nature throws at them and require no sanding or staining to refresh their good looks.
The Bison pedestals below are resistant to UV rays and will not break down or rot, meaning your
pedestal deck will last you much longer than a traditional wood deck.
Mistake #3. Building a Perfectly Flat Deck or Patio – While you want your deck or patio to appear level, it
requires a bit of slope to help with water runoff; a 5% slope is ideal. You may find it a little challenging to
build a slope into your project with certain materials.
Solution: Adjustable pedestals are the easiest way to incorporate a slope into your project.
Mistake #4. Low-Quality Materials – Your deck or patio gets exposed to all the elements. Whether it’s
hail, rain, winter storms or summer’s UV rays, the weather and temperature variations will wreak havoc
on your deck or patio.
Solution: More durable materials like porcelain pavers won’t deteriorate or rot the way wood will, even
pressure-treated lumber.
Mistake #5. Overlooking Environmentally-Friendly Options – Like everything else, building a deck will
cause an environmental impact. This may take the form of excavation, materials, waste, chemicals, or
the need to replace elements of your project. Materials like concrete produce outrageous amounts of
carbon, while pressure-treated wood can release insecticides and other chemicals into the surrounding
soil. Wood decks need to be sanded & stained every couple of years, and older pressure-treated lumber
cannot be re-used once it has outlived its use on your deck.
Solution: There are innovative materials out there that are much more sustainable than traditional
pressure-treated lumber or composite. For example, Bison products are manufactured in an
environmentally sensitive and efficient manner. The company’s deck supports are 100% recyclable and
are manufactured of 20% recycled materials, while the manufacturer’s FSC®-certified wood products are
ethically sourced and meet high global standards for forest sustainability. Bison’s deck pedestals, wood
tiles and other products are even eligible for LEED points.
By avoiding these all too common mistakes, your deck or patio can last a lifetime! To learn more about
creating beautiful decks, balconies, patios and rooftop environments and how adjustable deck supports
can make the job easier, visit Canadian Pedestal Systems.