Independent comparison. Teosad may earn a commission from some retailer links; this never changes the order or the numbers. Disclosure
What are deck pedestals?
Pedestals are adjustable supports that stand on a hard base, such as a slab, a roof membrane or compacted pavers, and carry the joist or bearer above it. They level a sloping surface and let water drain underneath. The names vary (decking feet, adjustable decking feet, deck supports, pedestals), but the job doesn’t.
How tall and how far apart?
| System | Height range | Spacing limit |
|---|---|---|
| Futurewood CleverDeck | adjustable pedestals cover 14 to 320 mm; total build height 48 to 523 mm | pedestals under joists at 450 mm in the ultra-low grid |
| ClickDeck Pedestal Pro | up to 440 mm with two extenders | set by the frame’s span table |
| NewTechWood NIVO | polypropylene pedestals under StructurAL joists | no more than 75 cm apart, 20 cm overhang |
Futurewood’s own page gives a second set of height ranges that don’t agree with the 14 to 320 mm figure, so confirm the model you’re buying. ClickDeck’s pages quote two different load ratings for Pedestal Pro, so we don’t publish either; ask ClickDeck for its test report.
NewTechWood’s NIVO span chart sets the maximum gap between pedestals by joist spacing and joist type. For a 60 by 40 by 2 mm aluminium joist it reads 750 mm at 350 mm joist centres, falling to 650 mm at 550 mm.
Where can pedestals go?
On a hard, stable surface only. Millboard says DuoLift pedestals are for solid, stable bases. On a roof or balcony, the membrane, the fall and the loads need to be checked by whoever is responsible for the structure, and the same goes for pool decks and anywhere above ground. The NCC barrier rules apply to a raised deck whatever it sits on; see how to build a deck.
What about wind uplift?
None of the pedestal pages we read mention wind uplift. If the deck is high, exposed or on a roof, ask the maker for a rating in writing.
See the frame overview and the span tables guide for how pedestal spacing ties in with joists.
Questions
What are decking pedestals used for?
They hold a frame or paving off a solid surface and level it. ClickDeck says its system suits decking, pavers and other outdoor surfaces, and Millboard says its DuoLift pedestals are for solid, stable bases only.
Are adjustable decking feet the same as pedestals?
Yes, in practice. Decking feet, adjustable decking feet, deck supports and pedestals all describe a height-adjustable base under a joist. Makers publish the height range and the maximum spacing.
How do you stop pedestals lifting in wind?
None of the pedestal pages we read mention wind uplift, so ask the maker for a rating if your deck is exposed, high or on a roof.
Can I put a paver on a pedestal?
Pedestal systems are built for it. ClickDeck describes its frame as suitable for pavers, and pavers on pedestals are a common roof-terrace build. Follow the maker's load rating and spacing for pavers, which are heavier than boards.