20mm porcelain paving tiles are a popular choice for outdoor spaces, especially when installed using a pedestal support system. However, not all 20mm tiles are automatically compatible with pedestal systems. Choosing the right tile ensures stability, durability, and long-term performance for your rooftop terrace, patio, balcony, or commercial outdoor space.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential elements to take into consideration when purchasing 20mm porcelain tiles for installation with paving support pedestal systems.
1. Are All 20mm Porcelain Tiles Compatible with Paving Support Pedestal Systems?
No, as mentioned above, not all 20mm porcelain tiles are suitable for pedestal installations.
While 20mm thickness makes outdoor porcelain tiles strong under load, other factors such as edge design, slip resistance, squareness and flatness determine whether they will work safely and effectively with paving support pedestal systems.
Tiles manufactured in the European Union must by law conform to strict EU standards. These govern important technical characteristics, particularly relevant to exterior raised installation on paving support pedestals such as straightness of sides, flatness (curvature + warpage) of surface, surface abrasion resistance, frost resistance, thermal shock resistance, chemical resistance, stain resistance, breaking strength, impact resistance, and slip resistance.
By purchasing products that aren’t produced to the same standards, you might find yourself in the situation where your tiles aren’t compatible with paving support pedestals. In addition, you may not have the same recourse, should there be a problem with the technical performance of the tile.
Rectification of tiles
Rectified edges are essential for installation of tiles on paving pedestals. The process of rectification involves the machining of the tile edges to ensure vertical and horizontal squareness and regularity. Unlike grout joints where irregularities in the trueness of the tiles can be adjusted out in the grout joint, when installing paving tiles on pedestals the tiles must fit tight against the tabs. Any dimensional errors can become compounded with each tile fitted, leading to joint lines running out of square.
Flatness and Trueness
It’s important to ensure that 20mm paving tiles have the necessary trueness and flatness required for raised paving installation, as guaranteed by tiles manufactured to strict EU standards.
Tile Surface & Slip Resistance
The slip resistance and the surface of the tiles used should also be considered. R11 or higher slip-rated tiles are ideal for outdoor use. Note that structured or textured surfaces improve traction. We recommend using anti-slip (R11-R13) porcelain tiles for pool areas and rain-prone spaces.
Tile Load-Bearing Capacity
20mm tiles manufactured to European Standards are capable of withstanding very substantial loads. However, before loading very heavy items such as large planters or hot tubs onto a raised paving installation, consideration should be given to strength/suitability of the subfloor. This is especially important in the case of a “warm roof” construction, as any compression of the subfloor/insulation could affect the paved surface. Always check with a structural engineer and/or your architect if you are constructing a new balcony or terrace area to ensure the subfloor construction is suitable for any planned heavy point loads.
Key Takeaway: Always check origin of manufacture and technical specifications to ensure your 20mm tiles are suitable for raised paving pedestal installation.
Tile Load-Bearing Capacity
20mm tiles manufactured to European Standards are capable of withstanding very substantial loads. However, before loading very heavy items such as large planters or hot tubs onto a raised paving installation, consideration should be given to strength/suitability of the subfloor. This is especially important in the case of a “warm roof” construction, as any compression of the subfloor/insulation could affect the paved surface. Always check with a structural engineer and/or your architect if you are constructing a new balcony or terrace area to ensure the subfloor construction is suitable for any planned heavy point loads.
Key Takeaway: Always check origin of manufacture and technical specifications to ensure your 20mm tiles are suitable for raised paving pedestal installation.
Tile Load-Bearing Capacity
20mm tiles manufactured to European Standards are capable of withstanding very substantial loads. However, before loading very heavy items such as large planters or hot tubs onto a raised paving installation, consideration should be given to strength/suitability of the subfloor. This is especially important in the case of a “warm roof” construction, as any compression of the subfloor/insulation could affect the paved surface. Always check with a structural engineer and/or your architect if you are constructing a new balcony or terrace area to ensure the subfloor construction is suitable for any planned heavy point loads.
Key Takeaway: Always check origin of manufacture and technical specifications to ensure your 20mm tiles are suitable for raised paving pedestal installation.
2. Why is it important to choose the right tiles for a raised paving installation?
Why It Matters for Pedestal Installation
Tile Thickness
A minimum of 20mm (¾ inch) for raised paving installation to ensure the correct load bearing and impact resistance.
Pedestal Placement
Different size tiles require additional paving supports (not only in the corners) for impact resistance and load bearing. Surface 360 provides free layout drawings with quotations, indicating the required position of each paving support pedestal.
Edge Finish
Rectified edges provide precise alignment and help prevent compounded dimensional errors.
Manufacturing Standards
Strict European dimensional and mechanical standards ensure peace of mind for long-term performance.
3. Common Mistakes When Choosing Tiles for Pedestal Systems
Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:
1. Using tiles under 20mm thickness – These tiles may crack or break under load or impact. Always use 20mm outdoor-rated porcelain.
2. Ignoring slip resistance – Wet areas may become dangerously slippery. Use R11 or higher rated tiles for safety.
3. Not using the correct quantity of pedestals per tile – Using the correct positions and quantities of paving supports insures load bearing and impact resistance.
Best practice: Always review tile specifications before purchase to avoid costly mistakes.
4. Final Verdict: Which 20mm Porcelain Tiles Work Best with Pedestal Systems?
The Best Choices:
- Choose tiles manufactured to guarantee the trueness and dimensional standards required for raised paving on pedestals
- Tiles with R11 or higher slip resistance for outdoor safety
- Choose tiles with rectified edges for alignment of joints over distance
Avoid These:
- Tiles under 20mm thick, as they are prone to breakage
- Polished or slippery finishes
- Tiles not manufactured to the strict tolerances required for raised paving installation
Need Help Choosing the Right Tiles for Your Pedestal System?
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