Online calculator of pedestals
Find out how many pedestals you need for your terrace!
Enter the dimensions of your terrace and select the characteristics of your slabs or joists.
This calculator will calculate the quantity of adjustable peedestals you need for your project.
Comment: The calculation table is approximate and based on a square or rectangular deck and straight installation.
Note: Quantities are given for information only. This document is not binding. Always follow the flooring manufacturer’s installation instructions to determine the number of adjustable pedestals required per m2. Self-supporting” slab designation required, class T7 or T11 according to NF EN 1339 or F+ according to CSTB QB 32 reference.
Adjustable pedestals calculator: optimize your projects like a professional!
How do you optimize the calculation of the pedestals for your terrace?
Calculating the size of your terrace with adjustable pedestals needs to be prepared. It must take into account several essential factors to ensure the solidity and durability of your structure:
- Type of covering: Wooden, composite and slab decks have different requirements in terms of spacing between pedestals
- For wood or composite decking: Spacing between joists is generally 40 to 60 cm, and between pedestals, 50 to 70 cm.
- For paving decks: 4 adjustable pedestals per standard flagstone (60 x 60 cm), or add a fifth pedestal in the center for more fragile flagstones.
- Type of laying: On uneven ground, use adjustable pedestals to compensate for unevenness.
- Loads to be supported: If you’re installing heavy furniture, flowerpots or a Jacuzzi, the calculation must include an appropriate load distribution to avoid sagging.
- Deck dimensions: The larger the deck, the more crucial it is to calculate precisely to avoid weak spots.
Tip: For simplified installation, use software or an online calculator to automatically determine the number of studs required, based on dimensions and type of covering.
Mistakes to avoid when calculating plots
When it comes to installing pedestals for a terrace, certain mistakes can compromise the strength of your structure. Here are the most common:
- Incorrect pedestal spacing: Too much spacing can lead to unstable zones and the risk of breakage, while too little spacing is a waste of material and money.
- Weight not taken into account: Ignoring additional loads (furniture, equipment) can lead to long-term subsidence.
- Laying on a poorly prepared floor: Uneven or unstable ground must be levelled or reinforced before the pedestals are laid.
- Poor choice of materials: Non-compatible joists or slabs may cause premature wear or cracking.
- Forgetting expansion gaps: Wood or composite decking requires expansion space to prevent warping due to climatic variations.
Manual vs. assisted calculation of decking pedestals: which to choose?
If you’re not sure whether to use a manual calculation or a software program, here’s a quick comparison:
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Manual calculation | – No cost at all. | – Long and tedious. |
| – Useful for small terraces. | – High risk of errors. | |
| Assisted calculation | – Fast and precise. | – Sometimes paying for advanced features. |
| – Recommended for large terraces or complex projects. |
Calculating adjustable pedestals for terraces on unstable ground: precautions and methods
Terraces on unstable ground require special precautions:
- Prepare the ground: Compact the surface and add geotextile to stabilize the ground.
- Choose adjustable pedestals: They compensate for irregularities and unevenness.
- Spread the load: Multiply the number of pedestals if necessary to avoid fragile areas.
- Vérifiez régulièrement le niveau:Regularly check the level: Use a spirit level to adjust the height of the studs during installation: Use a spirit level to adjust the height of the adjustable pedestals during installation.
Practical tip: check out this guide to uneven terrain for more details!
Calculating adjustable pedestals for heavy loads: load distribution
If you’re planning to install heavy equipment (spa, metal furniture, etc.), here are a few tips:
- Increase the number of studs: Reduce the distance between adjustable pedestals to distribute loads more evenly.
- Use reinforced pedestals: They are designed to support higher weights without deforming.
- Check the specifications: consult the pedestal’s technical data sheets for their maximum load-bearing capacity.
Calculate the material for a wood deck: boards, screws, joists
Wood decking also requires a precise calculation of materials:
- Blades: Calculate the total surface area in m² and add a 10% margin for cut-outs.
- Screws: Allow about 20 screws per m².
- Joists: Place them at intervals of 40 to 60 cm for good load distribution.
Tip: Use tools like our adjustable pedestal calculator to integrate all these elements into your terrace calculation.
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