Instruction for the Installation and Operation of Adjustable Supports
This instruction will help you correctly install and use adjustable and non-adjustable supports during the installation of flooring, ensuring their long-lasting use and reliability.
1. Preparation Before Installation
1.1. Foundation Inspection:
The foundation where the supports will be installed (concrete slab, stretched floor, compacted soil with drainage) must be even and stable.
Make sure there are no significant level differences, cracks, or splits.
If the installation is done on soil, a drainage layer must be created from broken stone or gravel with a thickness of at least 10-15 cm, compacted thoroughly, and geotextile should be laid to prevent weed growth and mixing of soil layers.
1.2. Calculation of the Number of Supports:
The number of supports depends on the type of flooring, its dimensions, expected load, and the spacing between the joists (if used).
Typically, supports are installed with a 40-60 cm spacing for terrace decking and 30-50 cm spacing for tiles, but always follow the recommendations of the flooring manufacturer.
Consider the necessity of placing supports under each corner of the tile or under the joints of the joists.
1.3. Preparation of Tools:
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Measuring tape (or roulette)
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Level (bubble or laser)
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Marker or pencil
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Protective gloves
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Special wrench for adjusting supports (if included in the set or required for a specific model)
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Saw (if necessary, to shorten joists)
2. Installation of Adjustable Supports
2.1. Marking:
Mark the foundation where each support will be placed according to your calculations and the flooring layout diagram.
2.2. Installation of the First Support and Initial Adjustment:
Place the first support at the approximate corner of the structure.
Using a level, set it to the required initial height. Height adjustment is made by turning the screw on the upper or lower part of the support. Some models have a special ring for coarse and precise adjustment.
2.3. Installation of Joists/Tiles and Subsequent Adjustments:
For terrace decking (using joists):
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Place the first joist on the installed support.
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Position the next support under the same joist at the required distance, using the level to align the joist horizontally.
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Continue installing supports under the joists, adjusting each joist horizontally and relative to neighboring joists.
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Use a laser level for more accurate leveling across the entire surface.
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If necessary, secure the joists to the supports with self-tapping screws (if provided in the support and joist construction).
For tiles/stones:
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Place supports at the future corners of the tile.
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Place the first tile on the four supports (each support under a corner).
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Use the level to align the tile. Adjust the height of each of the four supports by turning them until a perfectly horizontal plane is achieved.
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Continue laying tiles, adjusting them each time with the help of the supports. The special separators on the upper part of the supports will help ensure equal joints between the tiles.
2.4. Final Inspection:
After finishing the installation of the entire flooring, check the entire surface with a construction level in all directions.
Ensure there are no dips or unstable elements. If necessary, perform further adjustments.
3. Operation and Maintenance
3.1. General Recommendations:
Adjustable supports are made from durable materials resistant to weather conditions, ultraviolet radiation, and temperature changes. They do not require special maintenance after installation.
Avoid excessive point loads that exceed the allowable limits for your support model and flooring.
3.2. Ventilation:
A structure built with adjustable supports creates a ventilated underfloor space. This prevents the accumulation of moisture, mold, and fungus, significantly extending the lifespan of the flooring. Do not block ventilation holes along the perimeter or within the structure itself.
3.3. Drainage:
Ensure that water flows freely under the flooring and does not accumulate on the foundation. Properly organized drainage under the structure is a key factor for its longevity.
3.4. Inspection:
It is recommended to periodically (e.g., once a year in the spring) inspect the structure for possible deformations or movements, especially after heavy rainfall or temperature fluctuations. If any issues are found, perform re-adjustments.
3.5. Cleaning:
Cleaning of the supports themselves is not necessary since they are located under the flooring. Care for the flooring (terrace decking, tiles) should be carried out according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Important: Always follow the manufacturer's specific recommendations for the adjustable support model, as some installation details may differ. In case of doubt, please contact our company's specialists.
