Stone Deck System

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Advantages of HDG Silca Grates:

  • Uses existing wood joists
  • Low-profile installation (3–10mm)
  • Dry installation (no mortar needed)
  • Open-joint drainage
  • Freeze-thaw resistant
  • Low maintenance
  • Non-combustible surface finish
  • Won’t rot, warp, or attract pests
  • Compatible with turf
  • Residential or commercial use
  • Clean, modern look
  • Precise joint spacing
  • Compatible with Buzon UTF/UPG

Stone Deck System for Wood Joists

Transform Wood Joist Decks Into Elevated Stone Surfaces

HDG Silca Grates are the foundation of a versatile stone deck system that makes it possible to build durable, low-maintenance porcelain, stone, or concrete decks over traditional wood joist framing. These 2-square-foot structural panels are designed to sit directly on top of or between wood joists spaced 16″ on center. Originally developed for residential decks, HDG Silca Grates are now also used in commercial settings. They are especially popular for use under synthetic turf or modular paver systems.

Stone Deck System with HDG Silca Grates

Break Free from Traditional Limitations

Stone and porcelain decks are no longer limited to low patios or the height limits of pedestal systems. With HDG Silca Grates, you can build beautiful, durable stone decks at any height — right over traditional wood joist framing. Whether you’re renovating an existing deck or constructing something new, HDG Silca Grates open up fresh possibilities for elevated outdoor living spaces finished with stone, concrete, or porcelain pavers.

This system gives architects, builders, and homeowners more design flexibility, without sacrificing strength, performance, or aesthetics.

Raised Stone Deck System Over Joists Using HDG Silca Grates
Stone Deck System Grid Layout
HDG Silca Grate for Stone Deck Systems Over Wood Joists

HDG Silca Grates

  • Dimensions: 16 x 18.25 x 1.5″ (399 x 450 x 38mm)
  • Material: RePCABS (Polycarbonate ABS)
  • Coverage: 1.94 SF per panel (approx. 52 panels = 100 SF)
  • Weight: 4 lbs (1.814 kg) per panel
  • Finishes: Stone, concrete, or porcelain pavers

Best Practice Installation

For optimal performance, use U-Tabs-Flat and U-Pads-Ground (UTF/UPG) on top of HDG Silca Grating Panels to gravity-set porcelain, stone, or concrete pavers.

  • Result: A clean, even, open-joint surface over a strong, permeable structural base.
  • Speed: Fast installation since pavers are simply set in place without adhesives or mortar.

This method maintains consistent joint spacing for a polished aesthetic while allowing rainwater to drain freely through the open joints. In high-wind conditions, the open-joint design also helps equalize air pressure above and below the pavers, preventing uplift.

Low Profile Porcelain Patio at Door Threshold using Buzon U-TABS-FLAT and U-PADS-GROUND
Viewing U-TABS-FLAT and U-PADS-GROUND on imac Workstation at Desk

Design Low-Profile Stone Decks

See how U-TABS-FLAT and U-PADS-GROUND support stone and porcelain pavers in thin build-up assemblies, as low as 3mm (1/8 in). Includes thickness specs and component breakdowns.

Stone Deck System Typical Uses:

  • Renovation of residential wood decks
  • New residential deck construction
  • Commercial decks, rooftop terraces, or green roof platforms
  • Synthetic turf applications with a structural sub-base (See Designing a Woof Deck….)
Luxury Residential Stone Deck System Over Wood Joists Uses Silca Grates to Create Outdoor Living Space

Featured Project: Luxury Mountain Retreat

In this wraparound residential deck project, wood joists were topped with HDG Silca Grates and finished with stone-look porcelain pavers. This method allowed the homeowner to enjoy the beauty and performance of stone decking, even in a freeze-thaw climate. The elevated stone deck system provides durability, permeability, and easy maintenance in a scenic, high-altitude environment.

Help and Resources

Do you have a project you require a HDG Silca Grates for, or need more product details on stone deck systems? Call 503.360.9551 or Click.

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