Hybrid Timber/Composite/Paved Terrace

Aluminium joists offer many advantages that wood does not. Aluminium has the following performance characteristics:

First and foremost: durability over time. Aluminium structures are rot-proof, which makes them much more durable than wood.

Our aluminium joists are treated against corrosion to withstand humidity and even the salty climate found near swimming pools or the seaside. This is not the case with wood.

Jouplast® aluminium decking joists are much lighter to transport and install. Each joist measures 2.4 m and weighs 2.32 kg. In general, a pine joist of the same dimensions weighs between 3.5 and 4 kg, depending on the type of wood and its moisture content. This means that when handling joists on a building site, wooden joists are heavier than aluminium joists. This poses musculoskeletal risks that should not be overlooked.

If you are looking for a durable, easy-to-maintain solution that offers great stability, aluminium joists are an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more economical option and appreciate the natural aesthetics of wood for decking boards, wooden decking joists may be more suitable, provided you are prepared to carry out regular maintenance.

While we can give an approximate number of pedestals per square metre based on the size of the chosen decking, it is impossible to calculate the number of aluminium joists for a deck without looking at each case individually.

However, for a private deck, we know that for a 55 mm high joist, the recommended centre-to-centre distance between pedestals is 80 cm. For a 27 mm high joist, the recommended centre-to-centre distance between pedestals is 50 cm. The centre-to-centre distance is the spacing between the joists.

For an accurate quote, you can submit your project to us and it will soon be possible to carry it out on our Jouplast® application.

The durability of a terrace built on aluminium joists depends on several criteria.

• It is highly recommended that you prepare the ground properly so that the levelling of the terrain is stable, thereby guaranteeing the durability of the pedestal supports. We recommend that you watch our video on ground preparation to find out more.
• The choice of aluminium decking joists is itself a factor in the durability of the decking, as already mentioned in the section on the advantages of this installation system. The aluminium material makes the joists rot-proof and highly resistant to weathering and UV rays.
• The decking must be installed correctly on aluminium joists. To do this, we recommend that you read our installation advice. The joists must be fixed and aligned. Use our self-drilling screws, accessories from our range, to ensure the durability of your deck.
• Floor insulation: to prevent moisture rising, we recommend installing aluminium joists on wedges or pedestals. Jouplast® deck pedestals are the best choice for optimal adjustment.
• Use joist protection strips between the joists and decking boards to prevent water retention and extend the life of your aluminium joist decking.