- Shims are fine if you’re not seeing movement, but I’ve seen them compress or shift over time—especially with freeze/thaw cycles.
- Pedestals cost more, but they do keep things level longer in my experience.
- Curious—are you using treated lumber or composite? I’ve noticed composites can telegraph every little dip in the trusses, while wood hides it better.
- Ever had issues with water pooling between boards when using shims? That’s bitten me before...
Composites really do show every bump and dip—learned that the hard way last summer. Tried shims once, but after one winter, half of them had migrated south... Now I just budget for pedestals if it’s a high-traffic deck. Water pooling? Oh yeah, nothing like stepping onto a surprise puddle in your socks.
Yeah, composites can be pretty unforgiving—every little imperfection just pops right out at you. I’ve seen a lot of folks try shims, but honestly, once the freeze-thaw cycle gets going, they’re all over the place. Pedestals are definitely pricier up front, but in my experience, they save a ton of headaches down the line, especially if you’re dealing with heavy rain or snowmelt.
Water pooling is a pain. I’ve had to replace more than a few boards because of that—nothing like stepping out in the morning and getting a sock full of cold water. If it’s any consolation, you’re not alone there. Sometimes I wonder if it’s even possible to get a perfectly flat deck over trusses without spending a small fortune. Still, sounds like you’re learning as you go, and that’s half the battle. Hang in there—each project gets a little easier (or at least you get better at predicting what’ll go sideways).
Had a job last winter where the homeowner insisted on shimming every low spot instead of using pedestals or leveling compound. Looked fine at first, but by spring half the boards were cupping and there were puddles everywhere. Freeze-thaw just chewed it up. I get wanting to save money, but sometimes cutting corners costs more in the end. If you’re in a wet climate, I’d bite the bullet and go for pedestals or at least a solid sleeper system. Decks over trusses are always tricky—never had one turn out perfectly flat, but you can get close enough to keep your socks dry most days.