When it comes to balcony construction, waterproofing is a key consideration to ensure that the area remains free from water damage, structural problems, and mould or mildew growth. Choosing the right waterproofing method is crucial to maintaining the longevity and integrity of your balcony.
Various waterproofing systems are available, each offering different benefits depending on the construction materials, climate conditions, and expected foot traffic. Below, we’ll look at several waterproofing solutions to help you decide on your balcony.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Waterproofing is crucial for balcony longevity, and there are several systems to choose from, each suited to different needs. Rolled membranes are durable and thin and ideal for high load-bearing areas.
Cement-based liquid waterproofing is affordable but less watertight, while bituminous membranes are durable and versatile for heavy traffic. Butyl rubber offers strong adhesion and resistance to weather and wear, and seamless liquid systems provide flexibility in construction stages with a durable, joint-free finish.
Adding a perimeter profile enhances drainage and overall waterproofing performance.
Waterproofing Systems Available For Your Balcony
1. Rolled Membrane Waterproofing Systems
Rolled membrane waterproofing systems are highly regarded for their durability and ease of installation. These systems involve applying a waterproof membrane from bituminous materials or synthetic options like polythene.
Key Benefits Of Polythene Membrane:
- Thin profile: Polythene is only 3 mm thick, meaning it doesn’t add significant bulk to the balcony. This is ideal for areas where space is limited or structural weight is a concern.
- Load resistance: This membrane increases the balcony’s capacity to handle heavy loads. As a result, it reduces structural stress and prevents long-term damage that can occur when weight thresholds are exceeded.
- Waterproofing efficiency: It is extremely effective at preventing moisture from penetrating the substrate, ensuring that water cannot rise into the balcony’s structural layers.
Rolled membranes are ideal for those who want a long-lasting solution that protects their balcony from water damage while improving its structural performance.
2. Cement-Based Liquid Waterproofing Systems
Cement-based liquid waterproofing is one of the more straightforward methods available. It involves applying a liquid cement layer directly onto the balcony’s surface. While this process is fairly simple, especially for DIY enthusiasts, there are some important limitations.
Considerations For Cement-Based Waterproofing:
- Ease of application: This method is easy to apply, making it suitable for professional contractors and home renovators. With the right tools, it can be applied relatively quickly.
- Not fully watertight: One of the main downsides of cement-based waterproofing is that it could be more impervious. Small amounts of water may still seep through, particularly in areas with high moisture levels or significant temperature changes.
- Best for stable substrates: Cement-based waterproofing is most effective when the substrate is in good condition. This means it’s less suitable for balconies with cracks or imperfections in the surface.
While not the most robust system, cement-based waterproofing can be effective in certain environments, particularly in climates that don’t experience extreme weather variations. It is also a cost-effective option for those working on a tight budget.
3. Bituminous Membranes For Under-Substrate Waterproofing
Bituminous membranes are a popular choice for waterproofing balconies’ under-substrate, particularly in high-traffic areas. These membranes are made from products derived from the distillation of crude oil and offer excellent waterproofing and mechanical resistance.
Why Use Bituminous Membranes:
- Durability: Bituminous membranes are known for their long-lasting water resistance. They perform well under heavy loads and are resistant to physical damage.
- Versatility: One of the major benefits of bituminous membranes is their flexibility. They can be applied using flame bonding or pressure-sensitive adhesives, making them adaptable to various installation methods.
- Long-lasting: These membranes maintain their waterproofing properties for a significant time, even in areas with a lot of foot traffic. This makes them perfect for heavily used balconies or where durability is paramount.
Bituminous membranes are often chosen for large-scale projects due to their versatility and proven performance. They are an excellent option for protecting balconies from moisture and general wear and tear.
4. Butyl Rubber Waterproofing
Butyl rubber waterproofing is another effective method that can be applied directly onto various substrates, including concrete, plywood, and cement sheets. It is widely appreciated for its durability and ability to form a solid, waterproof layer that can withstand much use.
Benefits Of Butyl Rubber:
- Versatile application: Butyl rubber can be applied either beneath a screed or directly beneath tiles or other types of surface treatments, making it a flexible option for different types of balconies.
- Strong adhesion: Butyl rubber forms an incredibly strong bond with various substrates, ensuring the waterproofing layer stays intact over time, even in challenging conditions.
- Ideal for heavy-use areas: This type of waterproofing is highly resistant to wear and tear, which is crucial for balconies that experience a lot of foot traffic or where the surface is exposed to the elements.
Butyl rubber is a good choice for those looking for a waterproofing system that can handle heavy use and challenging weather conditions. Its strong adhesion and versatility make it one of the most reliable options.
5. Seamless Liquid Waterproofing Systems
Seamless liquid waterproofing systems provide a flexible and efficient solution that can be applied even at later stages of construction. This type of system is ideal for situations where timing flexibility is required, or damage avoidance during earlier construction phases is a priority.
Why Choose Seamless Liquid Waterproofing:
- Flexible use: These systems can be applied to a wide range of substrates, making them ideal for balconies with varying surface materials. Additionally, door frames or wall cladding do not need to be installed before application, providing greater flexibility in the construction process.
- Strong adhesion: Epoxy primers with seamless liquid waterproofing systems ensure excellent adhesion to even the most challenging surfaces.
- Durable finish: This system’s seamless nature means that there are no joints or gaps for water to penetrate. The resulting layer is resistant to water, chemicals, and UV radiation, offering a long-lasting finish.
Seamless liquid waterproofing systems are ideal for those looking for a tough, waterproof barrier that can be applied at different stages of construction without compromising on performance.
6. Installing A Perimeter Profile For Maximum Protection
To get the most out of your balcony waterproofing, it is highly recommended to install a perimeter profile. This simple addition helps with drainage and protects the balcony’s structural components from water damage.
Benefits Of A Perimeter Profile:
- Effective drainage: Profiles are designed to prevent standing water from accumulating on the balcony’s surface. This helps eliminate one of the main causes of long-term water damage.
- Enhanced waterproofing: Combining a perimeter profile with other methods ensures complete protection. The profile helps channel water away from the balcony, working alongside other solutions like drainage membranes to provide maximum defence against water infiltration.
While relatively simple to install, a perimeter profile can greatly enhance the performance of your balcony’s waterproofing system, offering both immediate and long-term benefits.
Choosing The Right Waterproofing System For Your Balcony
When deciding on the best waterproofing solution for your balcony, consider factors like climate, expected foot traffic, and the type of substrate you’re working with. Rolled membrane systems are a smart choice for those who need a lightweight yet durable waterproofing layer.
They are ideal for situations where the balcony must remain structurally sound without adding extra bulk. For those who need a simpler, more affordable method, cement-based liquid waterproofing might be the right option.
However, it may offer more than the full waterproofing capabilities of more advanced systems. If you’re working in a high-traffic area, bituminous membranes are a perfect fit due to their long-lasting durability and resistance to physical damage.
Butyl rubber waterproofing offers a versatile and reliable solution for balconies exposed to the elements. In contrast, seamless liquid waterproofing systems provide flexibility in the construction process without compromising the quality of the waterproofing layer.
Adding a perimeter profile can greatly improve the overall performance of your waterproofing system. This ensures that water drains efficiently and does not cause structural issues over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right waterproofing system for your balcony is a critical decision that will impact the longevity and durability of the structure. Each system discussed offers advantages, from the lightweight design of rolled membranes to the robust protection of bituminous and butyl rubber membranes.
By evaluating the specific needs of your balcony, whether it’s load resistance, foot traffic, or climate conditions, you can make an informed decision that will protect your investment for years to come. For the best results, consider combining waterproofing solutions, such as pairing a seamless liquid system with a perimeter profile, to ensure comprehensive protection against water damage.
FAQs About Balcony Repair
What Can I Use to Waterproof My Balcony?
Bituminous membrane waterproofing system
When it comes to waterproofing the area beneath the substrate of terraces and balconies, the most common method is to use bituminous membranes.
How Do You Waterproof a Second Story Balcony?
A completely waterproof seal is produced above and below your deck when a Tufdek vinyl membrane is installed on a second-story deck, regardless of whether the deck is new or already in place. If you have a vinyl deck, the water will run off the edge of the deck rather than getting trapped in the cracks. Both the space underneath your deck as well as the space above it are totally safe.
How Do You Seal an Apartment Balcony?
When applying Shower Plug or Resistain sealant, you can do so with a brush, roller, or spray. Sealant should be liberally applied to the surface after dipping the brush or roller in the bucket of sealant and then applying it. – Fill up the entire surface with the liquid. In order for it to be fully effective, it must absorb the maximum amount of liquid sealant that it can over the course of two coats.
Can You Waterproof Over Balcony Tiles?
Your balcony can be resealed with epoxy regrouting, which eliminates the need to remove the tiles. a substance that can withstand the effects of both water and chemicals. It requires little to no maintenance and can withstand any kind of weather. As an additional safety precaution, we will also apply polyurethane silicone to all of the junctions along the perimeter.
What Flooring Should I Use for Balcony?
Tiles made of porcelain are readily available and have quickly become one of the most popular choices for the flooring material on balconies. The fact that these tiles are extremely dense and long-lasting makes them an excellent choice for use in outdoor settings.
