Installing the concrete deck tiles using this pedestal pad system is an excellent option that allows for very smooth and fast install. Here are the details installation instructions:
When installing the EPDM rubber pedestal pad system on roof decks or on concrete, first install an edge trim piece around open edges of your roof to lock the tiles in and from moving outward or shifting. The type of edge trim that you use on your roof deck will vary depending on what type of roof construction used? Most roof deck edge construction will need a specially bent metal piece that is incorporated in the roof itself. One that is installed underneath the roofing system so as not to put holes in your roofing membrane.
Then decide your tile layout plan and establish your starting point. One of the best way to set tile is to start from the center of the deck so that each cut tile will be the same on the two sides of the deck. In most cases this looks the most aesthetic. Another option is to start on one side and then you’ll have to cut the deck tiles on the other side once you get to it.
Now start installing tiles on one edge of your deck butting the first row of tiles against your metal edge on one side of the deck and then setting consecutive rows as you go using the EPDM rubber pads either the 1/8” inch thick or the 3/8” inch thick on each corner of every tile. You’ll see in this video they are using 3/8” inch thick rubber pedestal pads and dry laying the deck tiles on the pedestal pads. These pedestal pads have built-in tile spacers tabs that hold the tile apart the right distance. So on the 3/8” thick pedestal pads the tiles are dry laid and not glued down. If you use the 1/8” thick pads you’ll have to add your own spacers to hold the tiles the proper distance apart. For roof deck applications, we do not use adhesive to adhere the concrete deck tiles to the roof deck as it could damage the roofing. Gravity laying is the proper application for roof decks. It generally works best to lay all of the full-size tiles first and then follow behind and cut the edge pieces as needed.
When installing cut edge pieces you will have to cut your EPDM pads with some heavy duty scissors to incorporate the partial pieces in the deck edge.
If the roofing membrane is uneven and you have a tile that rocks then first try turning the tile 1/4” turn sideways and see if that takes out the rocking? If you still have the tile rocking then you will need to add some 1/16” or 1/8” inch thick EPDM spacers under the tile in the right place to take the rocking out of it.
For further questions on DekTek Tile’s roof deck installations please call 218-380-9330.
