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Shim Deck Joists to Achieve Perfect Level

3:20
20:26
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How to Build a wood deck & install pavers, porcelain or stone tile over any deck

What happens here

Before laying pavers, ensure the deck frame is perfectly level. If any joists have sagged, use shingle shims to raise the low spots. The shims are placed directly on top of the joist to raise it to the level of adjacent joists, ensuring a flat surface for the SilcaGrid and pavers. This prevents rocking and potential damage to the non-flexible porcelain pavers. Do not attempt to lift the entire joist; only shim the areas that are low.

Goal: Correct any unevenness in the deck frame.

Tools and materials

  • Level — Identifying low spots in the deck joists
  • Shingle Shims — Raising low spots on the joists to achieve a level surface