What is a raised deck terrace?
A raised deck terrace is a system in which terrace pavers or boards are not glued to the substrate. The surface rests on adjustable pedestals or fixed supports, which allow for leveling the surface and maintaining proper slopes.
This solution is used on:
- balconies,
- ground-level terraces,
- roof decks,
- commercial buildings.
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Is it worth building a raised deck terrace?
The raised deck terrace system is a very simple and minimally invasive system for installing terraces. Both for outdoor spaces (terraces, balconies, roofs) and indoor floors (exhibition spaces, large entrance halls, etc.). Raised deck terraces are currently one of the most economical and durable ways to create outdoor surfaces.
The most important advantages:
- no adhesives or grout
- quick installation
- possibility to replace individual elements
- protection of waterproofing and building structure
- easy access to installations
- possibility to hide installations under the walking surface
- possibility to level even large height differences
The raised deck terrace has been known in the construction market for many years, and its huge advantage is the protection of the structure. The waterproofing remains intact and the surface is significantly more resistant to water and moisture, thanks to the gaps between the pavers. In addition, the raised deck terrace system allows maintaining the aesthetics of the terrace - hiding overflow drains and other installations under the walking surface.
In many cases, the installation cost is comparable to traditional solutions, while durability, simplicity of construction, and user comfort are significantly higher.
What determines the price of a raised deck terrace?
The cost of building a raised deck terrace consists of several elements:
- terrace pedestals,
- the surface (pavers or boards),
- a substructure of joists (in the case of boards),
- labor,
- additional accessories,
- preparation of the substrate.
The biggest impact on the price is usually the choice of material for finishing the terrace.
Price of terrace pedestals
Pedestals are responsible for leveling the surface and transferring loads to the substrate.
The cost of pedestals depends primarily on their height, technical requirements (load, non-combustibility), and the type of material.
The costs are estimated to illustrate the range of expenses.
Low pedestals (below 12 cm)
In the case of terraces with a low build height, the cost of pedestals is usually
around 60–70 PLN/m²
when supported every 60 cm (the most standard spacing for pavers)
High pedestals (above 22 cm)
When raising the surface by several dozen centimeters, the cost increases to:
approximately 80–100 PLN/m²
However, it is not only the price of terrace pedestals that increases. The cost of preparing the substrate is also higher, and consequently, so are the final installation costs. Preparing the substrate for such a high point load also becomes a greater expense than at standard heights.
Price of terrace pavers
The choice of pavers is very important for costs. Both the prices and quality of ceramic, concrete, or stone pavers vary greatly. Below we provide retail prices; with wholesale purchases, prices may be even 30-50% lower.
Price of concrete pavers
Concrete pavers are the cheapest solution used on raised deck terraces. Their durability is very high, although depending on the concrete mix, they differ in strength and brittleness.
Their approximate cost is:
70–120 PLN/m²
Advantages:
- high durability,
- attractive price,
- wide availability.
However, you should make sure that the selected pavers are intended for installation on pedestals.
More about raised deck terraces with concrete pavers
See also: Elevated terrace with concrete pavers - a durable solution for outdoor applications
Price of ceramic pavers
Next in the price order is the ceramic paver. Here, prices vary greatly. .
Prices of ceramic pavers are approximately:
70–300 PLN/m²
Most popular formats:
- 60×60 cm,
- 60×120 cm,
- 80×80 cm.
Ceramic pavers are characterized by:
- low water absorption,
- frost resistance,
- ease of maintenance.
See also: Elevated terrace with ceramic pavers - 2 cm ceramic tiles
Price of stone pavers
Natural stone is one of the most prestigious materials used on terraces.
Approximate prices:
100–500 PLN/m² and more
Most commonly used materials:
- granite,
- basalt,
- syenite,
- porphyry.
In the case of stone pavers, attention should be paid to the durability guaranteed by the manufacturer. The paver must be of appropriate thickness, i.e., one that meets the requirements for point support only at its corners.
Price of terrace boards
In the case of boards, it is necessary to use joists on which they will be laid - these can be wooden, composite, or aluminum joists. Their price also matters for the total cost estimate.
Price of composite decking boards
Composite decking boards, in addition to the use of joists, also require mounting elements.
Approximate cost of materials:
150–500 PLN/m²
Advantages:
- no need for impregnation,
- easy maintenance,
- modern appearance.
Price of wooden decking boards
In the case of wood, the cost depends mainly on the type of wood. It is also worth considering the cost of impregnation when choosing wooden decking boards.
Example prices for wood types:
- impregnated pine: from 80 PLN/m²
- Siberian larch: from 150 PLN/m²
- exotic wood: from 300 PLN/m²
Cost of Installing a Raised Deck Terrace
The installation cost "labor" depends mainly on:
- the type of surface,
- the height of the system,
- the size of the project,
- the level of project complexity.
As a rough estimate:
150–200 PLN/m²
For large projects, prices may be lower.
It is worth noting that the terrace can also be built yourself, due to the simplicity of the construction.
Example price calculations per m²
Terrace type | Estimated price of complete system
Concrete paver | from PLN 200/m²
Ceramic paver | from PLN 320/m²
Stone paver | from PLN 350/m²
Composite decking board | from PLN 350–600/m²
Exotic wood | from PLN 500/m²
The values provided are indicative and may vary depending on the location of the project and the materials selected.
Is it worth building a raised deck terrace?
Raised deck terraces are currently one of the most economical and durable ways to create outdoor surfaces.
The most important advantages:
- no adhesives or grout,
- quick installation,
- the ability to replace individual elements,
- waterproofing protection,
- easy access to installations,
- the ability to level even large height differences.
In many cases, the cost of installation is comparable to traditional solutions, while durability and comfort of use are significantly higher.
How much does a raised deck terrace cost per m²?
The simplest solutions with concrete pavers can be done from around 200 PLN/m². Terraces with ceramic tiles or composite decking boards are usually more expensive.
Is a raised deck terrace cheaper than a glued one?
Often yes. The lack of adhesives, grout, and shorter installation time help reduce construction costs.
What affects the price of a raised deck terrace the most?
The biggest factors are the type of surface, the height of the pedestals, and the cost of labor.
Can you build a raised deck terrace yourself?
Yes. Many investors build raised deck terraces on their own. However, this requires proper selection of pedestals, spacing of supports, and adherence to installation guidelines.