High-altitude raised flooring: a project featuring UPTEC pedestals

Installing a raised floor system in high-mountain environments presents a challenge that demands advanced technical solutions and meticulous attention to detail. In the heart of the Austrian mountains, at an altitude of 2,700 meters (approx. 8,858 feet), the prestigious Dachstein Glacier refuge chose to renovate its panoramic terrace, offering visitors a unique experience with breathtaking landscape views.

The environmental conditions of a high-altitude construction site require solutions capable of withstanding significant temperature fluctuations, snow, wind, and moisture. Furthermore, for this installation, the terrace needed to guarantee flatness, stability, and effective water drainage, preventing pooling and frost-related issues. The decision was made to create a raised flooring with UPTEC pedestals, which allowed for an impeccable result achieved through fast and efficient installation.

For this project, the following components were used: SUPAS self-leveling head pedestals, SUPAR120 extension rings, SUPA4 heads, and the SUPATRAY safety grid.

This configuration made it possible to adapt the flooring to the subfloor slopes and ensure perfect flatness of the final surface, which is crucial for a commercial area subject to high visitor traffic.

Given the height of the raised floor, reaching up to 30 cm (approx. 11-13/16 inches) in some areas, and the large number of people frequenting the terrace daily, the project designer deemed it necessary to include the SUPATRAY grid to enhance installation safety and prevent injuries in the potential event of tile breakage.

The porcelain pavers used, measuring 60x60 cm (approx. 23 ⅝ x 23 ⅝ inches) with a thickness of 2 cm (approx. ¾ inch), were positioned quickly. This was thanks to the possibility to adjust the pedestal height from above using the specific SUPAK key, even after the floor tiles were already laid. The system enabled the creation of a perfectly level and durable pavement without the use of adhesives or mortars, significantly minimizing installation time.

The final result is an elegant and functional terrace, perfectly harmonizing with the surrounding natural environment. Visitors can now enjoy a stunning view of the mountain peaks while walking on a safe and stable surface throughout every season.

Thanks to the reliability and versatility of the UPTEC system, this project demonstrates how it is possible to combine technical innovation and aesthetic excellence even under the most extreme conditions. It's a solution that opens up new possibilities for raised flooring installations in challenging contexts, guaranteeing long-lasting performance and durability.