Inspect the slab before covering it
- 1Boards
- 2Joists
- 3Pedestals
- 4Compacted aggregate
- 5Geotextile
- 6Ground
Clean the surface and record cracks, weak concrete, steps, damp areas, joints, outlets and building interfaces. Have progressive damage or structural doubt assessed before work begins.
Survey levels, falls and clearance
- 1Finished level
- 2Sloping base
- 3Drainage away from the building
Measure high and low points, thresholds and the depth available for every component of the new system. Check door swings and the height of fixed equipment too.
The fall to retain or correct depends on the finish, system, exposure and locally applicable design rules. Enter only a value justified for your project.
Select a compatible build-up
Boards on a frame, slabs on pedestals and bonded paving have different base requirements. Check exterior suitability, minimum and maximum build-up, loads, support pattern and required substrate condition.
Calculate the area to coverTesCalculs→Resolve drainage, cracks and joints
Complete the specified repairs and preparation. Never conceal a movement joint or form a dam across an outlet; the finish must allow water to follow its designed route.
A cosmetic repair is not a structural assessment. Crack-bridging, waterproofing and bonding products each have their own scope and waiting times.
Set out supports or the paving pattern
- 1Joists
- 2Pedestals
- 3Centre-to-centre grid
Mark axes, edges, cuts, board-end joints and inspection access before installation. For pedestals, add supports specified beneath edges and cut units; for bonded work, continue required joints.
Calculate pedestals over the concrete slabTesCalculs→Install and check every interface
- 1Boards
- 2Gap between boards
- 3Length to cover
Follow the system instructions and do not drill, bond or load the slab beyond what has been approved. Check stability, ventilation, movement gaps, thresholds and drainage before closing the edges.
Calculate boards and joistsTesCalculs→