What Are Moonbay Pedestals / Deck Jacks?
Moonbay Pedestals are adjustable height support systems designed to build/elevate a deck surface (timber, composite, tiles, pavers) above the structural substrate. They include:
-
A base foot that sits on the substrate
-
A height‑adjustable thread mechanism
-
A self‑adjusting head (anti-slip and noise pad
-
Accessories (extra angle adjusters, edge buffers, stainless clips, adjustment keys)
These pedestals can be used over membranes, concrete slabs, or other solid surfaces, creating a ventilated sub‑frame, hiding services underneath, and enabling drainage and leveling. Moonbay offers a variety of models - MB‑SLO‑A, MB‑SLO‑B, MB‑SLO‑C, MB‑SLO‑D - covering height ranges from 23 mm up to 405 mm.
Benefits of Using Moonbay Pedestals in Deck & Tile Projects
Precise Leveling & Slope Compensation. Moonbay Pedestals with self‑adjusting heads allow minor slope correction without complex cutting or shimming. This helps achieve perfectly level surfaces even over substrates with slight irregularities.
Ventilation & Drainage. Airflow underneath helps moisture dry out, reducing the risk of rot, mold, or degradation of waterproofing membranes. Water drains away rather than pooling.
Concealed Services & Easy Access. You can run electrical conduits, plumbing, and drainage pipes under the deck surface. If you ever need to access these services, you can lift individual tiles or deck boards without disturbing the entire structure.
Durability & Longevity. Quality pedestals distribute weight evenly onto the substrate, reducing point loads and preventing damage or sinking. Moonbay’s materials are designed for outdoor use and built to resist weathering.
Time and Labor Savings. Using adjustable pedestals simplifies the leveling process. No need for cutting or scribing the timber or tile base to match slight grade variations. Installation is faster, more forgiving, and cleaner.
Design Flexibility. Pedestals allow for height variation, creating steps, slope transitions, or decorative raised zones. They’re ideal when the substrate is uneven or you want to maintain consistent tile/board height across varying ground levels.
Cost Control. While pedestals add upfront cost compared to simpler methods, the savings in time, rework, maintenance, and the longer lifespan often justify the investment. Also, because Moonbay offers multiple height options, you don’t overbuild, you use just what’s needed.
How to Choose the Right Moonbay Pedestal for Your Project
Determine required height
Measure from substrate (concrete or membrane) to final deck or tile surface. Deduct the thickness of your tile or total thickness of your decking and joist. Select a pedestal model that covers that height range (with head adjustment to fine‑tune).
Factor in slope correction needs
Use pedestals with self‑adjusting or tilt heads, or pair with angle adjusters, especially if your substrate has slope or variance.
Spacing & load capacity
Distance between each pedestal is determined by your joist type/timber size. Follow standard spacing. Specific spacing should always be confirmed by a load-bearing span table for the selected joists. For the joists that will support the decking boards directly, a spacing of 250-350mm is a common guideline. For heavy/large pavers or high foot traffic, reduce spacing and/or include a pedestal at the centre for extra support. Each pedestal has a 2 tonne load rating.
Use edge buffer / clips for edges
At perimeter edges or transitions, use edge buffer or stainless clips to properly terminate and fix tiles/boards.
Plan for service access
Leave access routes or removable tiles to reach plumbing, conduits, or drainage under the deck.
Account for thermal expansion / movement
Use spacing joints and flexible edge details to absorb movement over time.
Use proper tools
The adjustment key helps fine tune heights after installation. Having the right tools ensures precise and efficient leveling.
For more information, please get in touch with us. Check out our full range here: