🧱 What Are Pedestal Tiles? A Smarter Balcony Solution for Northern Beaches Apartments

planab55
Aug 3, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Aug 9, 2025

If you’re a multi-residential unit owner, strata manager, or committee member on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, you may have come across the term pedestal tiles during discussions about balcony repairs or waterproofing upgrades.

So, what are pedestal tiles, and why are they a smart choice for apartment blocks with substandard or leaking balconies?

At Plan A Builders, we specialise in remedial works for older unit blocks across suburbs like Narrabeen, Dee Why, Manly, and Collaroy, and we’ve seen firsthand how pedestal tiling systems can transform a problem balcony into a compliant, long-lasting asset.

🧩 What Are Pedestal Tiles?

Pedestal tiles (also known as raised paver systems or floating tile systems) are tiled surfaces that sit on adjustable pedestals, rather than being glued directly to a slab with adhesive and grout.

This system creates a ventilated space between the waterproofed surface below and the walking surface above.

🔍 Key Benefits of Pedestal Tile Systems for Strata Buildings

✅ Superior Waterproofing Protection

Since the tiles are not directly adhered to the slab, the membrane below is fully accessible and protected. No penetrations = less chance of leaks.

✅ Easy Maintenance & Repairs

If there's ever a leak or issue with the membrane, individual tiles can be lifted for inspection—without demolition.

✅ Long-Term Durability

Pedestal systems reduce water pooling and help slabs dry faster, minimising long-term damage and structural deterioration.

✅ Improved Drainage

The system allows water to drain through the gaps between tiles and flow freely below.

✅ Neat & Level Finishes

Pedestals can be adjusted to correct uneven slabs, ensuring a flat, safe, and attractive walking surface.

📍 Perfect for Northern Beaches Conditions

On the Northern Beaches, buildings are exposed to salt, moisture, heavy rain, and UV—the enemies of conventional balcony tiling.

Older unit blocks with direct stick tiles often suffer from:

Drummy, loose tiles
Grout erosion
Slippery mould buildup
Leaks into lower units
Membrane failure

Pedestal tile systems offer a modern, weather-resistant upgrade—ideal for coastal apartment complexes.

🛠️ Real-Life Balcony Upgrade: Collaroy, NSW

Plan A Builders recently completed a remedial balcony upgrade for a 12-unit block in Collaroy. The existing tiles were cracking, leaking, and unsafe. We:

Removed the existing tile system
Applied a new sheet membrane
Installed a pedestal tile system with drainage mats
Delivered a level, compliant, low-maintenance surface

Result? A watertight balcony with easy access for future maintenance—and no more complaints from downstairs neighbours.

🧱 Common Materials Used with Pedestal Tiles

Porcelain pavers (slip-resistant, UV-stable)
Concrete pavers (durable and heavy-duty)
Timber-look tiles (modern aesthetic)
Composite materials (low maintenance)

We'll help you choose the best finish to suit your building style, exposure level, and budget.

🔒 Fully Compliant, Insured Work

All balcony upgrades valued over $20,000 include HBCF (Home Building Compensation Fund) insurance, required under NSW law. We’re licensed and insured to deliver compliant remedial works for strata.

✅ Why Choose Plan A Builders?

✔ Local Northern Beaches builder✔ Experts in pedestal tile systems✔ Specialists in multi-residential balcony upgrades✔ HBCF-insured and fully licensed✔ Proven results across strata buildings in Sydney