Creating the Ultimate Backyard Paradise
Posted on August 10th, 2016
Kaitlin Krull
Although summer is now officially past its halfway point, there are still plenty of sweltering hot days and blissfully cool evenings left to enjoy. At Home Improvement Leads, we think there is no place better to soak up every last second of sun than your very own backyard. If your own personal outdoor paradise is slightly less than idyllic, you still have time to make it right. Here are a few of our top tips for creating the ultimate backyard paradise this summer—and every summer after.
Give your deck a facelift
Homeowners who spend most of their time outside know that a deck is the perfect transitory space between the interior of your home and your backyard. However, decking is notoriously difficult to maintain, so make sure yours is up to scratch with regular staining, resealing, and repairs. If you want to create a decking space that stands the test of time and makes a statement, consider investing in porcelain pavers, interlocking deck tiles, or structural wood tiles. We love these non-traditional options because they require very little maintenance and can be replaced easily without having to remove entire portions of your deck.
Install a pergola or awning
If you have a wide open or south-facing backyard, shade can be difficult to find. Pergolas or wall-mounted awnings are relatively inexpensive and easy to assemble, giving your deck area comfort and respite from the heat. Pergolas in particular also give your backyard a sophisticated style reminiscent of Mediterranean estates and all-inclusive resorts, which is perfect for entertaining.
Make a fire pit
A summer soirée is not complete without a lazy evening spent in front of the bonfire. Creating a fire pit to give your backyard parties an unforgettable edge is easier than you might think: either build your own in a flat, open space with bricks or stones, or buy a small standalone fire pit or chiminea from your local home improvement store. If your outdoor entertainment area is undergoing a large scale renovation, consider incorporating your fire pit into the deck itself—just make sure the area is a safe distance from the house and any trees or other overhanging structures.
Upgrade your entertainment space
For many homeowners, summertime is all about outdoor entertaining. Give your backyard an instant lift with updated seating, dining, and barbeque areas. All-weather furniture made from rattan, wicker, or other wipe-clean materials will stand the test of time, but rain covers are a good idea if you’re particularly worried about any of your furniture warping or becoming damaged as the seasons change. Check, service, or even upgrade your grill, making sure to stock up on charcoal or gas before any big get-togethers. We promise that spending a bit more time and money on these upgrades will be worth the investment. If you love your outdoor entertainment area, your friends and family will, too.
Tidy up your landscaping
All the decking, furniture, and entertainment in the world will mean nothing this summer if your yard isn’t up to scratch. Take the time to maintain your lawn, trees, and flower beds, outsourcing the job to professionals if it becomes too much for you to complete alone. For most busy homeowners, less is more when it comes to backyard landscaping—lush green grass, tidy paving stones, and a blooming flower bed or two will give a far better impression than an unkempt Secret Garden style yard.
What are Interlocking Deck Tiles?
Posted on June 20th, 2016
Archatrak interlocking deck tiles are squares of precision cut materials (wood, stone, ceramic or composite wood) securely attached to a plastic grid base by either screws or adhesives. The tiles cover an area of one sq. ft. (nominal) except for the Double-C style which covers an area of two sq.ft.
Inbuilt connecting tabs on all four sides of the base enable the tiles to be quickly and easily clipped together over practically any hard surface, creating a continuous “floating” tiled surface. The tiles are not screwed, nailed, or bonded to the surface in any way, so installation requires no special tools, minimal surface preparation, and little effort or time.
The weight of the tiles, the interlocking structure and friction between the plastic base and the surface they are laid on prevents the tiles from moving, except of course in extreme wind conditions such as hurricanes or tornados.
The open mesh base with multiple ‘feet’ enables water to drain away freely under the tiles and provides good air circulation around the tiles, helping to prevent mold or mildew in damp and dark locations. With the SwiftDeck wood deck tile range, it also serves to raise the wood slats off the surface, minimizing cupping or twisting that can sometimes occur if wood is allowed to remain in contact with water for lengthy periods.
Types of Deck Tiles
SwiftDeck wood interlocking decking tiles are manufactured from high durability, hard wearing, dimensionally stable hardwood species. Ipe is the primary wood species we use wood due to its exceptional durability, hardness, freedom from splintering and stability in terms of twisting or warping. Each Colorado and Double-C style tile has four wood slats. Corrosion resistant screws attach the slats to the plastic grid from the underside, providing a smooth, splinter free surface, free from nail or screw heads. The tiles are factory coated with a light decking oil to enhance their appearance and provide some initial waterproofing effect. SwiftDeck tiles are available in either 12″ x 12″ or 24″ x 12″ size.
For most applications however, 3/4″ thick non-interlocking 2′ x 2′ structural porcelain stoneware pavers offer more versatility at a similar price. Although these pavers are primarily designed for installation on adjustable height pedestals in construction of elevated decks and rooftop decks, they can can also be used for on-grade applications including laying over existing concrete surfaces. In this situation, low cost rubber or plastic support pads with inbuilt spacer tabs are placed under each corner of the paver which lifts the pavers off the surface slightly so they will not rock on the surface if there are any slight irregularities.
Archatrak’s structural Ipe tiles are larger format solid wood, non-interlocking pavers designed specifically for use with adjustable height deck supports. Ipe slats are attached to solid wood bearers using stainless steel screws, making the pavers sufficiently strong for mounting on pedestal systems. The pavers can also be laid directly over concrete using low cost fixed height deck supports 1/2″ to 1″ high, to lift the pavers off the concrete and permit good drainage underneath. The standard size of the structural Ipe tiles is 24″ x 24″ but 48″ x 24″ tiles can be supplied on special order. These tiles are primarily used for commercial decks and roof deck applications but can be used for residential decks if so desired.
Interlocking Deck Tiles – Review Features
Posted on June 20th, 2016
Whilst on first glance there might not seem to be much difference between interlocking deck tiles from various suppliers, it’s important when considering their long-term use to review the main specifications of each tile and check the differences.
Some manufacturers might make claims that theirs is the “best build quality”, that they are “handmade”, that there is “no better deck tile on the market”, that other tiles are just “imitations” made in Third World countries, that they are the “original” manufacturers or designers of all deck tiles etc. But it’s best not to take too much notice of over hyped and unsubstantiated claims but just take a critical look at the main technical characteristics and features.
How Thick is the Wood?
HandyDeck Ipe wood deck tiles are 11/16″ thick, considerably thicker than many low cost wood tiles that are available, which are typically just under 1/2″. As well as having a rather flimsy appearance, these thinner tiles are more subject to twisting or warping in certain weather conditions.
And because of the thinner wood, it can be more difficult for the manufacturer to securely attach the wood slats to the plastic base.
A few tiles on the market are 3/4″ thick, but generally speaking, if a stable wood species is used, then this very slight additional thickness will make little difference, if any, to the long-term performance of the tiles.
What is the Wood Species?
It is important for an outdoor decking product that the wood species not only be extremely durable, but it should be both hard and dense so that it resists scratching and scuffing.
HandyDeck Ipe wood tiles use one of the most durable and hard wearing wood species commercially available. Even HandyDeck Teak tiles have exceptionally good durability, although they are slightly softer than the Ipe wood tiles.
On the other hand, many low cost wood tiles use Acacia wood, or low durability Eucalyptus species, neither of which are designed for long-term durability.
Some wood species also weather much better than others. For example Ipe does not splinter as it weathers and maintains a smooth surface, but other species can splinter quite significantly in the long term, and may begin to show signs of cracking.
If you are considering a wood tile made of a specific exotic wood species, we suggest you review the specifications of that species from a reputable online authority.
Check the Plastic Base
There are essentially two main designs of interlocking plastic base. The most common is the ‘loop and pin’ design which has loops along two of the sides which mesh with the pins on the other two sides. Not being a completely symmetrical tile, it’s necessary to think more carefully how the tiles are to be installed. But the main disadvantage is that it’s quite difficult to remove a tile from the center of the paved area once the tiles are laid, because it requires disturbing more than just a single tile to lift up the required tile.
On the other hand, the plastic base that HandyDeck uses is a completely symmetrical design so any side will lock with any side of another tile. And lifting a tile from the center of the paved area just requires pulling up a single tile, and then pushing it back down again in the same spot when it needs replacing. No surrounding tiles need to be disturbed. This type of design also has the advantage where edge pieces are being used, in that it’s not necessary to have two types – one to mesh with the female connectors and another to mesh with the male connectors.
It’s important that the plastic base also contains UV stabilizer compounds, otherwise it can degrade when exposed to the sunlight. Unfortunately it’s not possible to tell by simply looking at the plastic, whether it has UV stabilizers added or not, but if a manufacturer doesn’t state specifically that it contains UV stabilizers, then be careful.
The plastic base should also be somewhat stiff and sturdy, not floppy and overly flexible, as a particularly flexible tile can rise up on the edges and therefore create a tripping hazard.
How is the Surface Material Attached to the Base?
On wood tiles or composite wood tiles, the most common method of fixing the slats is to use screws. On higher-quality tiles, including those made by HandyDeck, stainless steel screws are used. On lower quality tiles, standard steel screws are used, which may (or may not) have an anticorrosion treatment applied. Generally speaking however, except in areas perhaps like seaside locations, non-stainless steel screws can in fact last quite a considerable time.
Review the Warranty Offered
You should always check and review what warranty the manufacturer offers, if any!
If no warranty is offered or if a warranty of only 12 months is offered, then you can almost guarantee that the tiles will not last a long time.
If you think about the above points before buying a deck tile, then your purchase should give you years of use and enjoyment from your new deck.
How to Keep Your Wood Deck Looking New
Posted on April 19th, 2016
The first wall of protection to incorporate is deck coating. Your backyard wooden deck may have come protected or was sprayed when it was installed, but it needs to be coated on a regular basis if you want it to stay looking new for years to come. Use a high quality decking oil to slow down the greying process that wood naturally goes through. Choose an oil that has transparent oxides in it and that features a high solids content for the best results.
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Make Use of Rugs
Consider covering up some of your deck’s surface with outdoor rugs designed to hold up to hot, cold, and rainy weather. This not only protects the deck and keeps it in like-new condition, but it gives the space a homey feel that makes it more comfortable to enjoy when it’s especially cold outside. Outdoor rugs can make your wooden deck feel more like a home extension that a separate outdoor area. If you want to keep things natural, use rugs that look like grass, sand, or pebbles. For an indoor look and feel, go for rugs that are made of synthetic materials such as polypropylene, acrylic, or nylon.
Plan for Harsh Weather
Planning for harsh weather will ensure that you can enjoy your outdoor wooden deck year-round, rain or shine. One great way to keep the space cozy in harsh weather is to build a canopy over it. Simply set up a metal canopy that comes with a vinyl top, or build the base out of wood and use shingles, stained glass, or corrugated roofing to top it off.
You can also screen in the wooden deck to keep strong winds and rain from infiltrating the space. If you want to keep bright sunshine out of the space, hang bamboo mats along the edges of your canopy so they hang like walls and can be rolled up when they aren’t needed.
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These tips and tricks should help you get the most out of your outdoor space and ensure that your wooden deck stays looking sparkling new indefinitely.
Pedestal Systems for Elevated Decks
Posted on April 19th, 2016
Whilst interlocking tiles are a great way to quickly cover a rooftop, especially where permanent structural components are not permitted, the fact that they are placed directly over the top of the existing surface, means there will generally be a slight slope towards the drainage point.
So what if you want the surface to be perfectly level?
The most common way of achieving this is to use an adjustable pedestal system in conjunction with structural pavers. The pedestals are placed under each corner of the paver and are adjusted in height by screwing the pedestal up or down to the precise height required. Adjustable pedestals range in height from approximately 3/4″ up to several feet high, so can not only be used to simply compensate for a slightly sloping surface, but also can be used to completely lift the elevated deck surface above pipes or other service ducts. And since the pavers are not permanently fixed to the surface, they can be lifted up at any time to inspect either the service pipes or ducts or the waterproof membrane on the rooftop.
Adjustable pedestals have a large circular base which spreads the load and ensures that the existing waterproof membrane is not damaged. Inbuilt spacers on the head of the pedestals allows the pavers to be positioned with precise gaps between each paver.
HandyDeck supplies both structural porcelain pavers and structural Ipe wood pavers and also the complete pedestal system. The 2′ x 2′ porcelain pavers are not only strong and durable, but are stain resistant, frost resistant, fade resistant and low maintenance.
For more information about pedestal decking systems and our range of structural pavers, call 866 206 8316.
Choosing A Natural Hardwood Deck
Posted on April 19th, 2016
Are you thinking about re-doing your deck? Do you have doubts about the materials to use? Let’s talk about wood.
Feel at Home in Your House
Wood has a comforting effect on the human mind, which perceives it as a warm material, creating a relaxing feeling of intimacy. Many studies are now focusing on the psychological consequences related to the choice of materials and decorations for the house, the place in which we feel welcomed and protected, and scholars seem to agree on this. If you choose wood for the porch, the patio, an outside walkway… you will automatically create a natural extension of the indoor space, which usually gets cut out by the use of colder and less welcoming materials.
For those who love spending time on their patio or porch, because they consider them places where they can sit, relax and feel at home, wood is undoubtedly the best option available.
Choose Strength
Another reason to opt for this material is its natural strength. The kind of trees the wood is derived from for the best decking solutions comes from live, moist environments. These trees have faced the most difficult weather conditions daily, and have developed a series of natural, incredibly effective defenses. If you decide to choose wood for your deck, you will also sign up to take advantage of all the natural strength of this incredible material: following an ecological path, and without using plastic or other chemicals, the floor will remain perfect, no matter the weather. Considering this fact, wood also becomes doubtlessly the best choice for walkways and the surfaces surrounding swimming pools.
A Fashionable, Easy Choice
Wood is very fashionable. This is a trend strongly related to the Japanese tradition, which famously brings together water, plants, rocks and other natural elements in order to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces (here is a magazine you should explore, if you are interested in Japanese architecture). Furthermore, wood is fairly easy to install. If you choose this material, in fact, you will be able to place it on the existing pavement. This is a big advantage, especially if there are pipes running under the floor. In case of leaks and other kinds of water damages, it won’t be too difficult to access the pipes and solve the problem. If you are already facing a similar issue, and you need to find the exact location of the damage; there are highly qualified professionals who can help you.
One last thought: remember to always choose quality, especially when it comes to wood. The right wood will last for years and it will never feel old or used. It will always be there with its welcoming vibes, its warm smell and its beautiful colors. It will be your bridge between the intimacy of your home spaces and the equilibrium of the natural world. Wood can allow you to breathe in particles of magic and relaxation: it can truly help your entire house to move a step closer to perfection.
Compare Wood Interlocking Tiles and Solid Wood Structural Tiles
Posted on April 19th, 2016
Prior to the introduction of interlocking wood decking tiles with an inbuilt plastic base, solid wood deck tiles were used for many decking applications.
So what are the advantages or disadvantages of either type of tile?
The main advantages of interlocking wood tiles is that the integral plastic base lifts the wood off the surface that they are laid on and enables the tiles to be quickly and easily connected together. With any outdoor wood decking product, the wood should not not be allowed to remain in contact with surface water for extended periods, otherwise it can absorb water and lead to twisting or warping of the wood pieces. So the integrated plastic base on interlocking tiles successfully overcomes this issue.
In addition, the interlocking plastic base makes the tiles easy to install by anyone, even without any particular DIY skills, as it ensures that the tiles are accurately and precisely positioned with constant gaps between the tiles. Normally all that is required is for the final row of tiles to be trimmed to size, which can be accomplished with just a normal hand saw or power saw.
By their very nature however, an interlocking tile with a plastic base is somewhat flexible in one direction, and therefore cannot be used as a structural tile.
Solid wood deck tiles on the other hand have two or three solid wood bearers on the underside of the tiles to which the top wood slats are screwed. But if these tiles are laid directly on a solid surface such as concrete in an outdoor flooring application, not only is there an issue with them remaining in contact with water for extended periods, but they can restrict the flow of water under the tiles, depending on the configuration in which they are laid.
The easiest way to overcome this issue is by using special plastic spacers on the corner of each tile. Low cost, fixed height plastic spacers are available which raise the tile approximately 1/2″ to 3/4″ off the surface and have inbuilt tabs on the top of the spacer to provide fixed spacing between the tiles. But because the tiles do not have any interlocking mechanism, it is essential that tiles used in such an application are installed in locations where there is a boundary wall around all four sides of the area being covered, to prevent the tiles from moving.
One of the most common uses for structural wood tiles however is in conjunction with pedestal decking systems using adjustable height pedestals. This allows the tiles to be successfully installed over a sloping or uneven surface. The pedestals can be adjusted by screwing them up or down to create a perfectly horizontal surface, which would be difficult or expensive to achieve by other more conventional methods.
For more information about structural Ipe wood tiles and their use with pedestal decking systems for constructing elevated decks or roof deck applications, call 866 206 8316.
Porcelain Pavers for Elevated Decks
Posted on April 19th, 2016
When designing elevated decks or other raised decking surfaces, structural porcelain pavers offer many advantages compared with other perhaps more conventional paving options such as concrete outdoor pavers.
Porcelain pavers not only possess exceptional strength, durability and wear resistance, but they are fire resistant, slip resistant, freeze/thaw resistant, fade resistant and stain resistant.
Whilst porcelain pavers have traditionally been installed on a thin set mortar bed, the Kronos Ceramiche range of porcelain patio pavers imported exclusively by HandyDeck are designed for installation not only on compacted sand or gravel,but also with adjustable pedestal systems for constructing elevated decks, plazas, terraces and water features in major commercial projects.
The main advantages of using porcelain pavers include:
- high load bearing capacity – each paver supports up to 2200lb
- fire resistant – essential for localities with strict fire codes
- stain and scuff resistant – maintains attractive appearance even in high traffic locations
- 0.05% water absorption – highly resistant to staining and salt damage
- dense, non porous surface – resistant to algae and mold growth
- freeze/thaw resistant – can be used in the most severe climates
- slip resistant and quick drying – alleviates safety concerns
- designed specifically for pedestal support systems – perfectly level decks guaranteed
- approx. 50% lighter than concrete pavers – easier to transport and install
- available in Teknowood ™ ceramic wood and ultra realistic simulated stone
For more information about porcelain pavers and their use with pedestal decking systems for constructing elevated decks or rooftop applications, call 866 206 8316.
How to Choose a Deck Tile
Posted on April 18th, 2016
How to Choose a Deck Tile
With the ever-increasing choices available for interlocking deck tiles, it’s becoming more difficult to decide which tile to use. The notes below hopefully give some useful pointers to consider
Wood species
This is probably one of the most important aspects in choosing a decking tile. As the tiles are normallyy used in exterior applications, its normally best to choose a wood species which has the maximum exterior durability. One of the most durable and hard wearing species is Ipe wood from South America which is used on our SwiftDeck range of deck tiles. In the next durability category, there are a large number of wood species also with a very high durability rating. A good reliable source to check durability ratings is the USDA Forest Service at http://www2.fpl.fs.fed.us/Menu.ssi .
But in your particular area you may also need to consider the resistance to insect attack such as termites. But it does not always correlate that high natural resistance to decay implies the wood species has a high resistance to termite attack.
Other wood properties may also be important to you. For example with some wood species, the surface can become quite rough after being exposed to the weather and can cause splinters. With other species, expansion and contraction under certain weather conditions can be manifested as cupping of the surface of the wood slats, although this generally disappears when the wood returns to a stable moisture content. And if a high resistance to fire is required, you may need a species with a high fire rating such as Ipe, which has been given an “A” rating by the NFPA.
As for colour, wood species can vary tremendously in colour, from light straw through chocolate browns to deep orange red colours. However all wood will eventually fade to a soft silver grey colour over time. The speed at which this will occur depends on the degree of exposure to UV sunlight in particular, and whether the wood is treated at regular intervals with decking oil.
Environmental considerations
An important consideration for many people is whether the wood has been responsibly harvested or comes from managed forests. Apart from the well-known FSC certification procedures, there are other government and non-government schemes adopted by some countries which may (or may not) provide some assurances that the wood has been sourced from responsibly managed and harvested forests and not sourced from illegal logging operations.
Wood thickness
Most tiles use wood slats which are approximately 5/8” (15mm) thick although some manufacturers produce tiles with 3/4″ thick slats and others with ½” thick slats. The choice of wood thickness to some extent depends on the location where you intend to lay the tiles and also to the wood species used. For interior situations such as basements, covered patios, gazebos, and other areas not subject to extreme weather conditions, then ½” thick slats maybe entirely suitable. However in areas with more extreme climatic variation, we would suggest that the thicker wood is a better choice. The main potential problem with thinner wood slats is that the slats can experience some cupping on the surface if for example the underside of the wood is wet whilst the surface is exposed to the heat of direct sunlight. In most circumstances however, this cupping will disappear once an equilibrium moisture content is restored.
Plastic base composition
The integral plastic tile bases used on these interlocking deck tiles may be produced from many different combinations of plastic including polypropylene, polyethylene, EVA etc. Whilst different manufacturers have their particular reason for choosing a specific plastic compound, the main considerations in terms of usage characteristics for the tiles are the brittleness of the plastic, the low temperature characteristics (only if you happen to live in a very cold area), and the UV stability of the plastic used.
Generally speaking, extremely high temperatures are not a problem, since the plastic processing temperatures and their melting/softening points are considerably higher than temperatures that are inexperienced in normal use. But it’s extremely important to ensure that the plastic is specifically designed for exterior use and contains a UV stabiliser, as otherwise it can degrade very quickly particularly in areas subject to strong sunlight.
Plastic base design – Interlocking mechanism
Broadly speaking, there are only two types of interlocking mechanism used on decking tiles currently available.
a. Loop and pin design. Female connectors on two sides mesh with male connectors on the other two sides. Most often, the female connectors are a series of loops which mesh with the pins on the other two sides. The pins may be square, round or rectangular shaped, but basically the concept remains the same.
In many cases, the pins simply slip into the corresponding slots and there is no mechanism to lock the pins into a fixed position, so the tiles can be simply slipped in and out as required. Other designs use a one way connector. In other words, once the tiles have been snapped into place, it is almost impossible to pull them apart. Whilst this may have some advantage in situations where for example the surface is somewhat uneven, it does mean that you have to be very careful in laying the tilesplus you no longer have the option of taking up and re-laying the tiles or changing the design at a later stage.
The disadvantage of the loop and pin style is firstly that it requires a bit more thought in laying the tiles as you generally need to start in one corner of the area to be covered and keep on moving from that corner. It is also quite difficult to install or remove this design of tile in the middle of your deck or patio without having to lift at least three of the tiles around it. The other problem is that on the outer edge of final row you will have one tile with loops on the edge and the next tile with pins on the edge. As well as visual considerations, this means that if the manufacturer provides an option of clip-on transition strips, then you need two types of these – one which will connect with the pins, and one which will connect with the loops. And similarly if corner transition pieces are supplied as an option, then you also need two types of these as well.
b. Symmetrical design The other main type of locking mechanism is completely symmetrical so that any side of any tile will lock with any side of any other tile, such as used on our SwiftDeck wood deck tile range.
The advantages of this particular design are that it makes laying the tiles much more simple and easy. You can start laying the tiles anywhere on your patio, you can easily lift up any individual tile anywhere in the deck without disrupting any other tiles, and you only need one type of click on edging strip (reducer) and corner reducer.
Availability of different designs
Some manufacturers only supply one design of deck tile, generally with four slats of wood running in the same direction. Sometimes there is an option of a five or six slat tile. Other manufacturers such as with our SwiftDeck and LinkDeck ranges offer an option of more than one style. You can thus mix and match different styles to make attractive borders, centrepieces or other features. Some manufacturers also offer the option of a double length tile such as the SwiftDeck Double-C tile.
Optional accessories
If you are using the tiles to cover an existing concrete patio, you would probably have at least one open side. On all tiles constructed with an integral plastic base, on the outer edge of final row tiles, the plastic base and the connecting pins will remain visible, unless they are hidden somehow. Thus to provide a neat, professional looking finish, some manufacturers supply optional clip-on transition strips which also have the advantage of reducing the danger of tripping on the outer row of tiles. Corner transition strips are also normally available from such suppliers for the external corners. Generally speaking the transition strips are made of the same wood species as the tiles, although some manufacturers supply plastic clip on edging strips.
Warranties
Warranties offered with decking tiles may range from as little as 12 months to up to 10 years, and in some cases no clear warranty is even offered. Warranties offered are generally a limited warranty which generally covers defects in manufacturing only and does not cover any natural imperfections in the wood, the effects of the natural weathering process of the wood or if the tiles are not installed or maintained as recommended.
Edge Finishing of a Raised Deck or Porch with SwiftDeck Deck Tiles
Posted on April 18th, 2016
Edge Finishing with SwiftDeck Wood Deck Tiles
A common question we are asked is how to finish off the outer edge of an area where SwiftDeck wood deck tiles are being installed.
Although in many instances the clip on edge pieces which simply attach to the outer row of tiles provide a satisfactory solution, especially in ground level situations such as on a patio, terrace or a walkway, in other situations where perhaps they are being used to resurface a slightly raised deck or on an existing porch, you probably want the edge of the deck to feel as secure as possible. One possible solution to this is as follows.
Firstly you would install a facing board around the outside of the deck or porch area and install this facing board so that it protruded above the existing deck by the same height as the plastic mesh base on the wood tiles (5/16”). Then you would take a wood tile and trim back the plastic base so that the tile when installed would slightly overhang the facing board. The quickest way to trim off the plastic base if you have a relatively large area to cover is normally to use a table saw, setting the blade height to the exact height of the plastic base and making sure that the blades do not hit any of the screws attaching the mesh base to the wood slats. Alternatively you could cut the plastic off with a box cutter, removing all screws that are in the plastic section to be removed.
If you need to install the tiles around a corner, then on the corner tile you would cut the plastic base away on two sides rather than one.
Now when you install the outer row of tiles, the plastic base will butt up against the facing board and will not only prevent any movement of the tiles, but will provide a safe and secure edge to the deck or porch.
The pictures below will explain the procedure in more detail.
Lip over face board on edge of deck
Trimming off the plastic base
Tile with section of base removed
Base sections removed on two sides for corner tile
