We do not recommend constructing elevated ventilated terraces using cement mortar bags.
There are several contraindications or factors to consider before deciding to lay an elevated ventilated terrace on cement mortar bags. Here are some of them:
1. Weight: An elevated ventilated terrace on cement mortar bags is much heavier than terraces supported by pedestals. It is essential to ensure that the substrate structure is strong enough to bear the additional weight.
2. Substrate: For a terrace on cement mortar bags, a solid, stable, and properly prepared substrate is necessary. If the substrate is not adequately prepared, it can lead to settling, cracking, or deformation of the terrace.
3. Installation and technical knowledge: Installing a terrace on cement mortar bags is extremely challenging because the tiles may shift after leveling, resulting in an uneven terrace surface.
4. Maintenance and repairs: In case of any repairs or maintenance, it may be necessary to remove and reinstall parts of the terrace. Unlike terrace installation using pedestals, once the terrace is installed on cement mortar bags, there is no possibility of reassembling the terrace after disassembly. The entire installation process needs to be repeated.
5. Drying time: Cement mortar on bags requires sufficient drying and curing time before the terrace can be used.
6. Costs: Considering the complex installation of an elevated ventilated terrace using cement mortar bags, it can be more expensive than using terrace pedestals.
7. Freezing: Cement mortar bags absorb water and, in the event of freezing, gradually suffer damage. The dried concrete crumbles and causes the terrace tiles to sink.
