Photos courtesy of Invisible Structures

Porous paving is used in many different settings to provide, smooth, accessible, and environmentally conscious paving solutions for pedestrian and vehicular access.

COMPONENTS OF MODULAR PEDESTAL DECK SYSTEMS

As noted already, modular pedestal deck systems are versatile and can be incorporated into almost any project type to create usable, sustainable, and affordable outdoor spaces. They consist of standardized components that can be selected, specified, and customized to meet project needs, budget requirements, or green building goals. Regardless of where or how they are used, though, adjustable deck systems commonly incorporate three types of components as described in the following sections.

Deck Supports

Fixed or adjustable height pedestals are the fundamental support system for outdoor decks and have become recognized as one of the most labor- and cost-efficient methods of creating a level deck over a moderately sloped surface. High-density polypropylene plastic which is 100 percent recyclable is a common material used to manufacture the supports. This makes them impervious to water, mold, and freeze-thaw cycles. Their adjustability offers tremendous design flexibility compared to traditional deck-building materials and methods. Using a gravity system, the supports do not penetrate but rather protect roofing and waterproofing membranes thus causing no damage or harm to the surface below. The pedestals can be used to elevate the deck surface to meet the threshold, therefore providing an even and level transition from one space to another. This allows easy access for patrons with different levels of mobility.

The location of the pedestals is typically based on a modular layout that follows the size of the material used on the deck surface. Commonly, this is a 2-foot by 2-foot square grid, although many other sizes are possible as well. Adjustable pedestals are available in a range of heights and weight-bearing capacities to suit a variety of conditions or needs. Those decks carrying more weight or requiring more height to achieve a level condition will need a higher grade of pedestal. Residential-, commercial-, and industrial- grades each have different characteristics. Deciding which system to specify is dependent on the support and elevation requirements of the deck in a project. Wind uplift pedestal systems have been designed to resist high-velocity wind when installed to the manufacturer’s specifications. Adjustable pedestal systems can support decks over occupied space, allowing space for electrical systems, ductwork, and/or irrigation.

Photos courtesy of Kyle J Caldwell; Bison Innovative Products

Standard outdoor deck components can be customized and used very creatively to meet larger project goals as shown here at the Mass General Brigham Administrative Campus in Somerville, Massachusetts, designed by Gensler and OJB Landscape Architecture.

Deck Surfaces

The versatility of adjustable pedestal deck supports means that they can be used to elevate a variety of decking surface materials. The common options include pavers made from concrete or stone, such as granite or travertine. Similarly, structural porcelain tiles, fiberglass grating, composite materials, or conventional wood decking systems can be used in a grid pattern to meet different design requirements. Typically, a galvanized steel paver tray is adhered to the back of structural porcelain pavers or other materials prone to breakage to provide impact resilience and provide additional strength. The paver trays are available in a variety of standard sizes, compatible with large format ceramic tile sizes, and allow accommodation for thicknesses of 2 cm. With or without a support tray, the deck surface materials can be removed during building use for routine maintenance, repairs to the roof, or to gain access to other systems.

If a lighter-weight surface material is preferred or needed, then wood tiles are a good alternative weighing only one-third as much as concrete tiles. Typically made from hardwoods in a variety of species, wood tiles are generally commercial-grade products. If maintaining the wood color is desired, wood tiles can be periodically cleaned and sealed. Left to weather naturally, the wood tiles will develop a silvery-gray patina. Wood tiles can be crafted from premium-grade remnants and harvested in an environmentally responsible method designed to preserve the economic viability of rainforest hardwoods. Some manufacturers of wood tiles associate with governing groups such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure the quality standards and practices of wood acquisition and plantation farming.

Site Furnishings

Manufacturers of pedestal deck systems also offer coordinated, modular elements that are designed to integrate with their deck systems while giving the architect complete design flexibility. Modular wood cubes are available with an array of design options to incorporate seating, storage, and planters. Such cubes are available with a polyurethane lining and drainage holes to host plant life. At other times of the year, the cubes can be repurposed for seating and storage of seasonal items (i.e., cushions and pillows) by placing a manufactured hardwood top on the cube.

If a different look is desired, aluminum cubes are also an option. Designed to withstand temperature extremes, these low-maintenance, durable planters are constructed of lightweight, partially recycled aluminum. Some use an industrial-strength powder-coated finishing process that is applied electrostatically and cured under heat, creating a more resilient finish than conventional paint. There are a variety of sizes and color choices available.

Overall, complete, coordinated, modular deck systems as described here, can be designed and specified to create attractive, durable, and sustainable outdoor spaces.

Photo courtesy of Greenscreen

Proper design, planning, installation, and maintenance are needed to keep the plants or vines alive after a living wall trellis system or other similar green infrastructure feature is set in place.

KEEPING LIVING WALLS ALIVE

The benefits of living walls are contingent upon keeping the plants or vines alive and thriving. When there is confusion between an artificial green wall and a true living wall, the design and specifications may not provide living plants or other necessary components such as irrigation and proper sunlight. The coordination of the design among the different disciplines and trades is needed to meet project goals or building owner expectations. Since the plants are living, everyone needs to recognize the need to work with nature and in so doing reap the biophilic and design benefits. Therefore, consider all of the following in the design, planning, installation, and maintenance phases of a living green facade or other living feature:

• Sun Exposure: At the outset, it is important to remember that the sun orientation for the plants is a key to their success. Different orientations or levels of sun exposure or shade may require different plant or vine selections.
• Seasons of the Year: Everyone must understand the seasonal quality of the vines or plants being used in a design. Some plants may change colors in the fall or go dormant in the winter in certain climate zones. Therefore, managing owner expectations for off-season appearances can make a big difference in user satisfaction.
• Irrigation: Plants and vines need water to grow, so an irrigation system needs to be part of the design. Keep in mind that some irrigation systems that introduce fertilizer, may need a backflow prevention mechanism to avoid the fertilizer from getting into the main plumbing system.
• Soil: Healthy soil will be needed for the proper growth of the vines. The volume of soil will depend on the type of vines and their intended growth. The soil is incorporated at grade or in planters.
• Plant Species: Living green walls and other trellis-based living structures can be utilized with a wide variety of plant material. In general, twining vines such as jasmine, clematis, and honeysuckle work best. Vines that attach with adhesive suckers such as English Ivy, Boston Ivy, and Creeping Fig should NOT be used for wall-mounted applications as these vines will attach to the wall in addition to the trellis panels. It is best to consult with a trained landscape specialist to determine the species most likely to be successful for a particular project.
• Building Connection: Attaching the trellis system to a building wall requires proper detailing of the connections. For example, some wall types may need blocking for attaching a living wall trellis system.
• Maintenance: Maintenance is important to keep vines alive. It will begin the day that the vines are planted. Hence, the building owner should be advised on how to properly maintain the plants and should have a maintenance plan in place to ensure the project’s success.