MODULAR OUTDOOR FLOORING FAQ  " Deck Tile FAQ"

 Eco Arbor Designs and our modular flooring solutions, offer the design flexibility to create, unique outdoor spaces. Our pavers have the added benefit of leveled raised floors and removable flooring to retain access to the subfloor. Although our structural pavers can be used on ground applications very well.  Our speciality has always been raised floors.  Since 2004, Eco Arbor Designs  has led the industry in the design and manufacture of Pedestals and Deck Tiles that create beautiful rooftop environments. This independently tested, modular deck tile flooring systems allows rooftop decks to be installed quickly and easily without damaging expensive roofing systems and allow critical access to the surface underneath. Lets talk about how this works.

Outdoor Flooring and Deck Tiles, modular or mudset?

Deck Tiles are best used on outdoor flooring whether it be on ground or above living space in many situations. Modular flooring by definition should be removeable and can be leveled with shims or pedestals on above living space. However our porcelain pavers and structural wood pavers can be used on mudset applications or set on a sandbed.  So dont worry, you want the seamless 

What about fitting around pipes or odd shaped areas?

Just cut the deck tiles to fit the required shape with a jigsaw or handsaw or doorknob drill. A miter saw will give you a very clean straight cut across the tile. Tiles can be cut in any way even rounded cuts. Be careful to remove any screws that may be in the way of your cut line. We also recommend using a new blade or diamond tipped blade to make cutting easier and cleaner.

Will the deck tiles last a long time?

Short answer is YES! Hardwood typically outlast soft and semi hard woods like cedar and redwood by 10 times. For instance Ipe hardwood timber is highly resistant to decay and insect attack, for up to 40 years! Ironwoods like Ipe, Curupay and Rosewoods will not rot, split or crack like soft woods do once they become weathered. These woods are typically used for marine applications and yes our stainless steel screws are MARINE GRADE. We are the only deck tile manufacturer to use genuine marine grade hardware.

The Atlantic City boardwalk was re-built with ironwood as was the Treasure Island Casino boardwalk in Las Vegas. Ironwoods are the wood of choice for commercial applications with heavy traffic.

The polypropylene backing to the right is stronger than interior conventional plastics and will not crack or degrade over time. We stabilize the 30% recycled content base with a UV resistant compound which prevents the base from breaking down over time. We also add a fire retardant polymer creating a flame resistant surface. The frame is what allows for free and clear drainage when you run the hose over the deck or if it rains. Our patented interlocking system is the easiest to use and most durable. The locking joints snap down in place and secure the tiles together.

Can the wood slats come loose?

No. Each wood slat is secured to the poly base by three stainless screws. The screws are under the tile and sit off the ground so there is no water contact with the metal screws. We have seen deck tiles on the market that use adhesives or flimsy screws which are not properly set into the wood. With these products the wood will come loose over time with foot traffic and eventually cause a tripping hazard.

What are some of the advantages between installing a decking tile system versus a traditional deck?

Since you can install the deck tiles yourself, the difference in installation cost is huge. Also, if you compare the material cost of building a hardwood deck the traditional way, the materials and labor cost would be far higher. Typically you can expect that a deck tile installation will be half to 2/3rds the cost of building a deck. The cost of building a conventional hardwood deck of the same size. Deck tiles also offer portability and can easily be taken up to service underneath (if on a roof deck). They can easily be reinstalled in another location as required if you move or sell your home. Your investment in the material is not compromised. You cannot say the same for a built in permenant deck.

Can the tiles be installed over a timber frame or pedestal system?

Yes. Provided that the joists are 12" or 24" (structural deck tiles) off center and leveled with a laser level and the frame is sturdy, you can install the tiles over the joists. Your only limitation is the direction of the tiles; they must be installed perpendicular to the joists. Pedestal systems can be installed under the frame to even out any slanting or grade of the surface if working with a sloped roof deck. If you would like to lay patterned tiles you may by adding a surface 2 x 6 pressure treated spaced out evwery inch or so overt he surface. Lay the tiles on top as you final surface and you have a hardwood deck that will last a lifetime. Below is a typical pedestal system with our stone pavers. The deck tiles can easily be replicated with the use of 2x6 sleepers over the pedestals.

Can the tiles be laid over an existing weathered wood deck?

Provided the surface and supporting framework are structurally sound and the surface is even. Resurfacing old wood decks with our tiles allows you to remove to service the deck underneath in the future.

How long is the warranty?

Our warranties are guaranteed against faulty workmanship for a period of 10 years from the date of purchase for our on grade deck tiles. Structural deck tiles have a limited warranty of 5 years from the date of purchase. Dont worry we have your back and we are not going anywhere.