Outdoor spaces can provide architects with the perfect blank canvas to create amazing sanctuaries and complement building design. However, the more complex the design or space, the more likely your installers are going to be to put to the test. From intricate edging and uneven surfaces, to preserving the integrity of the roof membrane, these challenges rely on installer expertise and proper product selection.
With years of specification and installer experience, Buzon has met these challenges and developed solutions to help installers navigate them with ease.
Using the right edging products to secure a terrace or balcony is usually straightforward when working in regular spaces. However, when faced with curved or angular designs, ensuring that pavers sit flush and secure to create a safe and stable surface can be more challenging.
Buzon have developed two advanced edging accessories to secure even the smallest tile cuts, ensuring an even surface regardless of the layout. These solutions facilitate effective water drainage along the terrace edge, protecting the outdoor space from adverse weather conditions whilst preserving the aesthetics of the design.
The U-EDGE accessory is a versatile edge support, compatible with even the smallest of tile cuts (from 2cm to 14cm). Enabling easy installation around corners and curved edges, the U-EDGE creates a uniform 5mm gap between the wall and tile for a professional finish. It can be used with any size of spacer tab and all shapes of paving
The U-WALL accessory is designed to support larger pieces of tiling, providing extra support and allowing the pedestal to sit away from the wall. Secured to the pedestal head through the use of screws, it can used around corners and curves, as well as for regular straight edges.
Both are compatible with Buzon’s standard pedestals including the DPH range. The accessories were instrumental in the new cricket pavilion at Falklands Cricket Club. Buzon supplied and installed these 20mm porcelain tiles on DPH pedestals across three new terraces. Precise tile cutting was required to fit tiles around the existing balustrade posts, and U-WALLs were used to create perfect edges.
Achieving a level surface is key when it comes to external flooring.
While some installers opt for ‘self-levelling’ pedestals to achieve this, these solutions rely on a ball & socket to self-adjust, meaning that the slope cannot be mechanically set or fixed. This often results in unwanted movement around perimeters and central pavers.
The fool proof method is to use a millimetre precise slope corrector such as the U-PH5 from Buzon. Fitted to the base of PB & BC pedestals and with the ability to correct slopes of up to 5% in 0.5% increments, the degree of fall is easily locked in place enabling installers to achieve a level even surface every time. Our DPH pedestals have the same slope correction functionality built in to the pedestal head.
Buzon contractors used this method of precise slope correction during the construction of The Londoner Hotel. Sloping skylights around the edge of the terrace were seamlessly incorporated into the level central floor by the creation of ramps using ALUrail alongside the integrated slope correction functionality of DPH pedestals.
Roofing membranes can come under tremendous pressure when surfaces are installed on top of them and incorrect pedestal specification is a common cause of failure. Though this applies to pedestals of any composition, it is especially critical when using fire-rated pedestals which are typically made from metal as their sharper edges pose a higher risk of compromising the membrane.
Consideration should therefore be given to the material, size and shape of the pedestal bases. If the diameter of the pedestal base is too small, the weight of the pavers is concentrated onto a reduced surface area. This increases the likelihood of puncturing the membrane and exposing the layers beneath. Additionally, square-based pedestals can result in a compromised membrane due to the sharp edges of the base.
To prevent damage, the Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA) and Buzon recommend using round-based pedestals with a minimum diameter of 170mm. This ensures even weight distribution, reducing the risk of membrane penetration. Adhering to these guidelines is essential when working with leading roofing suppliers as many will only warranty installations for pedestals that follow this industry guidance.
All of Buzon's pedestal ranges have a circular base with diameters that meet or exceed the requirements. . In the case of the DPH, PB and BC ranges, the diameter is 200mm, whereas our metal fire-rated range, the A-PED, has a base of 170mm. Choosing Buzon will ensure that when working with roof build-ups, warranties won't be invalidated due to incorrect pedestal choice.
With a team of dedicated installers, Buzon is well-versed in overcoming these types of challenges and advancing projects, drawing on our extensive hands-on experience. Whether installing or supply-only, we offer site-specific advice and CAD support.
Our extensive range of products and accessories caters for the most complex commercial and domestic projects, ensuring we have the right solution to meet your needs.
Whether you’re navigating intricate designs, addressing technical challenges, or requiring expert installation, Buzon is your trusted partner every step of the way.
Let us help you turn your vision into reality— contact our experts by calling +44 020 8614 0874 or get in touch today!