Frequently Asked Questions

Begin by inserting the three connector pins into the holes provided at the end of the modules or steps. Then, align the new module or step extension with the existing one and use the connector clips to lock the connector pins in place. No other tools are required for this installation. Each kit is designed to assemble two modules or steps. So each side-by-side extension requires three kits (i.e. three connector pins and three connector clips). Follow this procedure to assemble MODULESCA® modules or steps side by side to create a strong and stable structure.

Stone, concrete or ceramic paving slabs are all possible choices for a patio on pedestals. The choice will depend on the use, the type of installation and, of course, the desired aesthetic appearance of your paved patio.

Stone paving slabs: a robust material

Stone is appreciated for its authenticity and timeless appearance. Two materials can be obtained from this mineral, depending on the process used:

• Natural stone slabs, cut from the bedrock to predefined dimensions.
• Reconstituted stone slabs, made by grinding the mineral and incorporating other materials and treatments before moulding.

Whether natural or reconstituted, stone slabs can be integrated into all styles of decoration and all types of installation.

Like concrete slabs, they can be laid sealed, glued, on pedestals or on a bed of sand.

Porcelain stoneware tiles: a material similar to outdoor tiles

Ceramic tiles are made from porcelain stoneware. This material is used to manufacture outdoor tiles of the same name. For this reason, they form a separate category, often included with outdoor tiles.

Porcelain stoneware outdoor tiles are a first-choice material for creating a tiled terrace. Ceramic paving is appreciated for its excellent aesthetic appeal. These tiles have a sober appearance that lends elegance to outdoor spaces in general and terraces in particular.

In terms of installation, porcelain stoneware can be laid in any way, including on pedestals, despite being thinner than other types of paving. For installation on pedestals, the tile must be at least 2 cm thick and comply with the QB UPEC F+ standard.

Wooden tiles: perfect for small areas

Also known as decking, wooden tiles are often associated with decking boards. And for good reason, as they are made from bio-based material. However, some decking is made from composite, a mixture of wood fibres and synthetic materials.

Wooden tiles or decking are also very lightweight. Installing decking is therefore very different from installing other types of tiles. It is also very easy, as they simply need to be laid on the ground, provided that it is smooth and level. It should be noted that they can also be laid on joists.

Before starting work, it is essential to estimate the number of pedestals you will need to purchase. Here are the steps to follow to estimate the quantity of pedestals required:

Start by measuring the surface area of your patio and drawing up a layout plan, taking into account the recommended spacing for the type of paving slabs. Generally, a pedestal is placed at each corner of the slab, but some formats or materials may require additional support points, and therefore additional pedestals.

To find out the recommended spacing between each pedestal, we recommend that you consult the appropriate installation advice, available on the product sheet for the pedestal you are using, and the recommendations of your flooring manufacturer.

To calculate the number of pedestals:

• Divide the length of the terrace by the recommended spacing between two pedestals, then do the same with the width.
• Multiply the two results to obtain the total number of pedestals required.
• Remember to add extra pedestals for edges, corners or specific cuts.
• Always round up to the nearest whole number for optimum stability and to have a few spare pieces in reserve.

Composite decking heats up in the sun, just like any other surface material such as timber or tiles. Composite wood patios can reach higher surface temperatures in the sun than the ambient temperature.

We recommend choosing light-coloured composite boards, which absorb less heat than dark-coloured ones. This also applies to tiles or porcelain tiles.

Although composite heats up when exposed to the sun, it also cools down more quickly than other surfaces such as tiles or wood, which retain heat.

We also recommend having shaded areas on your patio using nearby vegetation or shading equipment such as parasols or stretched canvases. Around a swimming pool, we also advise you to step carefully to avoid burns when the weather is hot.

Modular wooden or composite staircase:

Wooden staircases require regular cleaning with a soft brush and soapy water to remove debris and dirt.

A fungicide and insecticide treatment can be applied to prevent mould and insects.

Modular staircases covered with paving:

It is recommended that the covering be cleaned with a soft wire brush to remove moss stains.

A water-repellent product can be applied to protect against moisture.

The advantage of raised patio built on pedestals is precisely that this installation requires neither adhesive nor screws. The pedestals do not need to be fixed the ground. You can dismantle the deck in no time at all and without damaging the ground.

However, for wooden decks, it is necessary to fix the joists to the pedestals in order to secure the whole structure. Subsequently, the decking boards must be fixed to the joists using through-bolts or hidden-decking fixings such as Fixego®.

Each pedestal type has its own specific installation method. To ensure you follow the correct installation steps, we recommend you read the installation guide for the pedestals you have chosen for your project.

However, we can summarise the installation of pedestals in a few simple steps:

• Preparing the ground: preparing the ground is essential before starting your project. On a concrete slab, you must make sure that the surface is clear of any obstacles to ensure your pedestals are properly stabilised. On natural ground, make sure to properly level and compact it. To do this, remove the topsoil to a depth of approximately 15 cm, then lay a geotextile before creating a base layer of 0/31.5 crushed stone. For best results, compact the entire surface using a vibrating plate. Proper levelling ensures the durability of your patio.
• Position the pedestals: install the pedestals following the layout plan and recommended spacing. The pedestals must be laid evenly and with the appropriate spacing (usually between 40 and 60 cm). Use a spirit level to check that each pedestal is level.
• Install the joists, wooden boards or tiles: start by adjusting the height of your pedestals. For a wooden or composite decks, secure the joists to the pedestals using suitable screws. You can then lay your decking boards, fixing them to the structure. For a paved patio, lay the tiles directly onto the pedestals, readjusting the height if necessary to ensure a levelled surface.
• Final adjustments: check the alignment and stability of the entire structure. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a uniform and safe surface. Don’t forget the edges of the patio, which you can also finish to ensure a clean, modern look.

For detailed and specific instructions, we recommend consulting the installation guides provided on the product page of the pedestal you are using. They contain precise information and illustrations to guide you step by step.