Waterproofing a balcony or terrace is essential for ensuring its longevity and protecting it from damage caused by moisture. A well-waterproofed balcony prevents water seepage, which can lead to structural damage, mould, and other costly issues.
Whether constructing a new balcony or restoring an existing one, understanding the waterproofing process is vital. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to ensure your balcony remains safe from water intrusion.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Waterproofing a balcony is crucial for preventing water damage, mould, and structural deterioration. The process begins by assessing whether a new waterproofing system is required or if the existing one needs restoration. Key steps include:
- Cleaning the surface.
- Repairing damaged grout with outdoor putty.
- Applying transparent, film-free waterproofing products that seal vulnerable spots.
For severe damage, a full restoration, including removing damaged flooring and applying liquid waterproofing, may be necessary. Finally, grouting with outdoor-specific products and sealing the grout helps to protect against moisture, ensuring long-lasting waterproofing.
Steps To Waterproof A Balcony
Once the need for waterproofing has been confirmed, it’s time to begin the process. Follow these steps for a reliable and long-lasting waterproofing solution.
1. Clean The Balcony Surface
Before applying any waterproofing materials, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure that the new layer adheres properly. A clean surface ensures a strong bond between the substrate and the waterproofing material, significantly enhancing its longevity and effectiveness.
- Remove Efflorescence and Deposits: Efflorescence, a white chalky deposit, forms on surfaces when water seeps through concrete, bringing salts to the surface. This must be removed because it indicates water penetration and can prevent waterproofing materials from adhering properly. Use a stiff brush and a pH-neutral detergent to scrub away these deposits and any dirt or debris accumulated on the surface.
- Strip Previous Treatments: If the balcony has been treated previously with waxes, sealants, or other surface treatments, these need to be stripped away before applying a new waterproofing system. These old treatments can prevent the new waterproofing layer from bonding effectively with the surface. A mild solvent or a mechanical stripping tool, such as a power washer or sanding tool, will help remove these old layers.
2. Repair And Rebuild The Grouting
After cleaning, any damaged areas, particularly the grout lines, should be repaired to prevent future water leaks. Grout is often the first point of failure when water starts to penetrate a balcony, as cracks or gaps in the grout allow water to seep beneath the surface.
- Use Outdoor Putty: To fix any cracks or damaged grout lines, use an outdoor putty with waterproofing properties. This will create a watertight seal that protects against moisture intrusion. Outdoor putty is designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including fluctuating temperatures, rain, and UV exposure. This step is crucial for ensuring no weak points remain where water could enter the structure.
- Allow for Proper Drying: Let the putty dry completely before proceeding to the next steps. Drying times can vary depending on the product used, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Rushing this step could compromise the integrity of the waterproofing, as the putty needs to form a solid bond to maintain a watertight seal.
3. Apply Waterproofing Products
Once the surface has been cleaned and the damaged grout has been repaired, it’s time to apply the waterproofing products. Choosing the right products and applying them correctly is critical to achieving effective waterproofing.
- Use Transparent, Film-Free Products: Transparent, film-free waterproofing products are popular because they protect the surface without altering its appearance. These products penetrate the surface, sealing pores or cracks that may allow water to seep through. They are particularly useful for balconies with stone or tile finishes, where maintaining the aesthetic appeal is important.
- Focus on Vulnerable Spots: Pay special attention to vulnerable areas of the balcony, such as the joints where the balcony meets the building’s walls and any corners or edges. These areas are more prone to water intrusion and should be given extra care during application. Using a brush or roller, ensure the product is evenly applied to these areas to create a seamless and watertight barrier.
4. Restoring The Balcony’s Waterproofing System
If the existing waterproofing system has been severely damaged, more than simply repairing the surface may be required. In this case, a more extensive restoration process is required to rebuild the entire waterproofing system from the ground up.
- Remove Damaged Flooring: The first step in a full restoration is to remove any damaged flooring, the adhesive and the original waterproof coating. This allows for completely removing any compromised materials, ensuring the new system bonds properly to the substrate.
- Apply Liquid Waterproofing: Once the damaged materials are removed, apply a liquid waterproofing membrane designed for outdoor use. These products create a flexible and durable barrier that can withstand both water penetration and the balcony’s structural movements. Liquid waterproofing products are especially effective because they can cover the entire surface evenly and penetrate small cracks or crevices that may have been missed during surface repairs.
- Reinstall New Coating: New flooring materials can be installed after the liquid membrane has cured. Be sure to use a cementitious adhesive designed for outdoor use, as these adhesives are formulated to withstand the harsh conditions that balconies are exposed to. This adhesive creates a strong bond between the flooring and the substrate, ensuring that the flooring remains securely in place.
5. Grout The Balcony’s Surface
Once the new tiles or flooring are in place, the final step is to grout the surface. Proper grouting is essential to prevent water from seeping through the cracks between tiles, which can lead to moisture buildup underneath the surface.
- Use Grout Designed for Outdoor Use: Outdoor grout is formulated to handle environmental exposure, including moisture, temperature changes, and UV rays. It is also more resistant to cracking and water penetration than indoor grout, making it ideal for balcony applications. Be sure to choose a product specifically labelled for outdoor use to ensure the longevity of the waterproofing system.
- Seal the Grout: Once it has dried, apply a sealer to protect it from moisture. A grout sealer adds an extra layer of protection by preventing water from penetrating the grout lines. This step is often overlooked but is critical to extending the life of the waterproofing system.
When Is Waterproofing Required?
The first step in waterproofing a balcony or terrace is determining whether a new waterproofing system is necessary or if the existing one can be restored. This decision will guide the project’s approach, ensuring the right steps are taken.
- New Waterproofing Application: If a balcony has never been waterproofed or is in the early stages of construction, it is generally easier to install a new waterproofing system. In this case, a fresh application ensures the entire structure is protected from water damage.
- Restoring an Existing System: It’s crucial to evaluate the current waterproofing system for older balconies. If it is damaged or outdated, a restoration process will be needed. This typically involves a thorough inspection and careful restoration of the current materials.
Conclusion
Waterproofing a balcony is a crucial task that ensures its longevity and protects against costly water damage. Whether dealing with a new build or restoring an existing system, following the proper steps—from cleaning and repairing the surface to applying waterproofing products and sealing grout—will help create a durable and effective barrier against moisture.
By focusing on vulnerable areas and using products designed for outdoor use, you can keep your balcony safe from water intrusion, maintaining its functionality and aesthetic appeal for years to come. Regular maintenance and inspections will further enhance the durability of your waterproofing system.
FAQs About Balcony Repair
Do You Waterproof a Balcony?
You could use a number of different strategies in order to waterproof the surfaces of your balcony, such as installing a waterproof membrane both beneath and in addition to the screed, or possibly sealing the exterior of the tiles and the grout joints. It is essential to begin with high-quality waterproofing. Repairs for a leaking balcony are an annoyance that nobody needs.
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.
What Do You Use to Seal a Balcony?
Sealing the edges and the perimeter of the balcony can be done with a paint brush. Be sure to cover all of the concrete that can be seen, as well as the spaces between the posts of the bannister and the railings. Apply the sealer to the remaining portion of the balcony with a paint roller, moving carefully so as not to paint yourself off the balcony and into the house as you go.
How Many Coats of Waterproof Does a Balcony Need?
Make sure that all of the wall and floor joints, nail and screw heads, and flanges are sealed with joint sealant (ensuring penetration flanges are installed correctly). To ensure that the balcony is completely watertight, apply two coats of a polyurethane membrane.
Why Do Balconies Leak?
The phenomenon known as “ponding” can occur on a balcony with a minimal fall because it increases the likelihood of water pooling and moisture becoming trapped between the membrane and the tiles. If the waterproofing membrane that was applied is not capable of withstanding ponding water, the membrane will eventually deteriorate, which will result in water leaks. In addition, waterlogging can cause joint failure, which ultimately results in leaks.
