Why use tiles instead of timber or composite for your deck?
You may be surprised at the advantages of using tiles instead of timber or composite boards on your deck. Not only does it look more modern, but it will last longer and....
John Gill
6/26/20253 min read
External raised floor finish options
Timber or composite decks are not the only options available when choosing your raised floor / external deck. Other options include artificial grass, bamboo and tiles. Each option has advantages and disadvantages.
As timber or composite are the most commonly used deck finish, and tiles the most commonly used pedestal finish, this article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of both.
While timber looks great when first installed, it quickly deteriorates without the proper care. The timber association recommends it is used on decks at a minimum height of 300mm above the substrate. Wide gap spacings and board width restrictions are recommended below that height. Being a natural product, timber is susceptible to heat and moisture issues. The use of timber has reduced with the introduction of quality composites and the deteriorating quality of the timber available.
Composite boards have come a long way since they were introduced. They are now the most commonly used deck material in Australia. With each generation of product, issues have been designed out and the quality improved. Fading and staining is no longer an issue and now a quality board can last up to 50 years. Composites now very quickly recoup the higher purchase cost with the reduction in maintenance costs and longer lifespan. The life of a composite deck is more often than not, dictated by the lifespan of the substructure. An aluminium substructure with a quality composite is an excellent choice for a lot of areas.
Tiles have been used commercially as a floating floor finish for many years. The use domestically is on the increase, particularly in units or multi-residential buildings. As with composites, the quality and features of tiles used in raised deck applications is improving all the time. The tiles are stronger with less risk of breakages than ever before. Enhancements such as those found with the SafePave system add thermal and sound insulation, wind uplift prevention and other benefits previously unheard of with a tile floor.
Raised tile or paver floors (decks).
Raised tile / paver floors are becoming increasingly popular in the building industry, as they provide a number of immediate benefits that simply aren’t available when using a conventional laying method or other type of deck. The ability of maintaining slopes for drainage, the lighter weight and quicker installation time, the lack of a requirement for a sand and cement bed and the ability to keep waterproof membranes separate and visible makes too much sense.
On larger projects, the most common finish is 600x600 tiles installed to pedestals. There are many reasons for this, including speed of construction, cost and longevity. The use of this system is expected to increase as new products are introduced to the market that solve perceived problems or add to the choices of finish.
Significant time and cost savings arise as the use of grouting, caulking and bonding agents becomes unnecessary. Pedestals and pavers are simply lifted into place.
On higher level decks or those that cover services, an aluminium substructure is often used. Whether it is joist and post or joist bearer and post, it is constructed in the same way a traditional timber substructure would be.
Aluminium is used as timber can twist and warp which would affect the surface finish.
Advantages of tiles over timber and composite.
No expansion and contraction issues
Tiles can be easily lifted to inspect/access the substrate
Non-slip
Easily replaced
UV stable
Can be re-used if the use of the area changes
Fire Pits, BBQ's etc. can be used on the tiles
Stronger and harder to damage
Won’t rot, twist, warp or splinter
Quicker to install
Easier to repair
Longer life
Better at low levels - no heat or humidity problems
Large range of options, styles, finishes
Can now have thermal insulation (via SafePave)
Can now have acoustic insulation (via SafePave)
Sales and Showroom
Clever Building Products
64 Nuwarra road,
Moorebank, NSW, 2170
0425 288 812
info@safepave.com.au
By Appointment only