Outdoor tile decks, balconies and roof terraces are notorious for failures.

The primary problem is dealing with the water that gets under the tile. The freeze/thaw cycle wreaks HAVOC on the tile above.

The top priority must be to allow the water to escape the decking system.

We regularly get calls about cracked tile, lifted tile and failing grout on outdoor tile decks.

We find these things are simply built INCORRECTLY.

Can’t just screw cement board to deck boards and install tile. It just does not work that way!

There is a lot of BUILDING SCIENCE that goes into creating outdoor tile spaces, ESPECIALLY on wood decks, a tile balcony or roof terrace.

Because of the routine outdoor tile deck failures throughout the country, tile companies have come up with a slick solution.

TILE PEDESTAL SYSTEMS allow for tile slabs to float on top of a waterproof roofing, which allows for water that hits the tile to escape—off of the roofing system.

We’ve been fascinated with this type of tile deck for some time now and we recently booked a project where we will use this type of tile installation technique.

So, with the the pedestal system job scheduled for the spring, we went off to the Ardex Training Academy, in Dallas, GA to learn about their pedestal system, which we will be installing.

Check out the video below to learn more:

The primary challenge to installing these pedestal systems —-we have to have the clearance.

They have a minimum clearance requirement. That means doorways and entry ways have to be raised above the decking a certain amount.

This can be a challenge in remodeling situations, BUT if we are allowed design control, during new construction..this system is perfect.

When you first see the pedestals, it’s hard to believe it will work…but indeed it does. Because of the thicker tile, which are roughly 3/4” thick, it’s a solid base for walking, outdoor furniture and grilles.

We’re excited for the upcoming opportunity to put together a tile pedestal system in the coming months and of course, we will keep you updated!