Which Complete Set Is Right for Your Terrace?

At a Glance
Standard surface: a classic complete set without extras is the right choice. Uneven subfloor: choose a set with adjustable pedestals. High load: opt for a more stable substructure with solid boards. The right combination saves time, money, and helps avoid costly mistakes.
Which WPC Complete Set Fits Your Project?
Not every terrace is the same. Differences in the subfloor, intended use, and overall area all determine which complete set is actually the right choice for your specific situation. However, many wrong purchases happen because important factors are overlooked — especially when it comes to the subfloor condition and the required installation height.
Therefore, before choosing a complete set, it is worth taking a few minutes to assess your subfloor carefully. The answer to one key question determines almost everything else.
The Key Question: What Is Your Subfloor Like?
The condition of your subfloor is the single most important factor when choosing the right WPC complete set. Specifically, ask yourself:
- Is the subfloor level or uneven?
- Is there a slope that needs to be compensated?
- Is the base concrete, soil, gravel, or an existing old terrace?
As a result, these factors determine whether you need adjustable pedestals — and which type of substructure will give you the most stable and long-lasting result.
When Are Adjustable Pedestals the Right Choice?
Adjustable pedestals are the best solution in a number of common situations. For example, they are essential when:
- The subfloor is uneven and needs levelling
- Height differences between sections need to be compensated
- The surface has a slope that affects drainage or stability
- The terrace will be installed on concrete or existing tiles
- Good ventilation and clean drainage beneath the boards are a priority
In these cases, a complete set with adjustable pedestals is not just convenient — it is the only way to achieve a stable, level, and long-lasting result without extensive ground preparation.
Advantages of Adjustable Pedestals
Adjustable pedestals offer several practical benefits that make installation significantly easier and the finished terrace significantly more reliable:
- Precise height adjustment to compensate for any unevenness
- Fast installation without complex subfloor preparation
- Good ventilation beneath the boards, extending their service life
- Clean and reliable drainage, even on sloped or sealed surfaces
- Long service life with minimal maintenance
Therefore, for many projects — especially on concrete, tiles, or uneven ground — adjustable pedestals are the most practical and cost-effective solution available.
When Are Pedestals Not Necessary?
However, not every project requires adjustable pedestals. A standard complete set without pedestals is perfectly sufficient if:
- The subfloor is level and structurally stable
- The base is a well-prepared gravel bed with good drainage
- There are no significant height differences across the area
- The installation conditions are straightforward and predictable
In these cases, a classic complete set with standard substructure delivers everything you need — at a lower cost and with equally reliable results.
Which Complete Sets Are Available?
We offer three main complete set configurations to cover the most common terrace projects:
1. Standard Complete Set Includes decking boards, substructure, and all fastening materials. The ideal solution for level subfloors and standard residential projects.
2. Complete Set With Adjustable Pedestals Includes height-adjustable pedestals for precise levelling. The right choice for uneven subfloors, concrete bases, existing tile surfaces, and sloped areas.
3. Complete Set for High Loads Features a reinforced substructure, often combined with solid decking boards. Designed for heavily used terraces, pool surrounds, and commercial or semi-commercial applications.
View all complete sets: extrawood.de/en/category/wpc-complete-sets
3 Common Mistakes When Choosing a Complete Set
1. Misjudging the subfloor condition. Many buyers assume their subfloor is level enough for a standard set — and discover during installation that it is not. In result, work stops, additional materials need to be ordered, and the project is delayed.
2. Not planning for adjustable pedestals. Pedestals are often seen as an optional extra. However, on concrete, tiles, or any uneven surface, they are essential for a stable and durable result. Skipping them to save money almost always leads to higher costs later.
3. Choosing the wrong set for the intended use. A standard set is perfectly sufficient for normal residential use. However, for a heavily used family terrace, a pool surround, or an area with frequent heavy loads, a high-load complete set is the smarter long-term investment.
Conclusion: The Right Set Makes All the Difference
The right WPC complete set depends on two factors above all: your subfloor condition and your intended use. Adjustable pedestals are often essential for a stable and long-lasting terrace — not an optional extra. And choosing the right load category from the start saves both time and money over the life of your terrace.
Therefore, take a moment to assess your subfloor before ordering. If you are unsure which set is right for your project, use our terrace planner to get a clear overview — or contact us directly for advice.
View all WPC complete sets now: extrawood.de/en/category/wpc-complete-sets



