Homes are a haven for most individuals, a place where every corner matters. While you may have poured all your attention on the interiors, it is crucial not to overlook its appearance on the outside, especially the balcony.
Balconies can help you enjoy the world outside while still being in the comfort of your home. However, their exposure to the elements may lead to damage. That is why taking care of your balcony is essential, and you can do it through balcony waterproofing.
In this blog, we will delve deeper into the basics of this type of waterproofing and why it is a crucial process in protecting your outdoor space.
What Is Balcony Waterproofing?
It is a process designed to protect balconies from water damage. Remember, this area of the house is exposed to elements like rain, making it vulnerable to water seepage, eventually leading to various problems, like mould growth, structural damage, and peeling of paint or coatings.
Therefore, a waterproof barrier is applied to the balcony’s surface to prevent these issues. Effective waterproofing ensures your balcony remains dry and safe, regardless of Australia’s weather conditions.
Do You Need a Waterproofing Contractor?
While DIY solutions might seem tempting and cost-effective, balcony waterproofing isn’t a task to take lightly. That’s where a balcony waterproofing contractor in Brisbane comes in. These professionals have the expertise and materials necessary to ensure a thorough and lasting waterproofing job.
Here are other benefits of hiring a balcony waterproofing contractor:
- A professional contractor ensures high-quality workmanship that lasts.
- They can help prevent future damage by assessing the area and implementing preventative measures.
- They have the knowledge to ensure the waterproofing process complies with relevant building codes and regulations.
- A professional contractor gets the job done efficiently and effectively, reducing the long- term costs of balcony maintenance and repair.
- Professional balcony waterproofing contractors often provide a warranty for their work. This gives you peace of mind, knowing that if there are any issues with the waterproofing, the contractor will address them as part of their service guarantee.
What Makes These Waterproofing Professionals Different?
Waterproofing a balcony involves several techniques to prevent water from penetrating the structure and causing damage. Here are some standard professional methods:
Surface Preparation
Before starting the actual waterproofing process, professionals thoroughly clean the balcony’s surface. They remove the dirt, debris, and previous coatings to ensure the waterproofing material will adhere to the surface.
Moreover, they also repair cracks or damaged areas, so they won’t cause any problems in the future.
Applying Waterproof Membrane
Professionals often use liquid waterproofing or sheet membranes made of modified bitumen, PVC, or EPDM rubber. They apply these membranes to the balcony surface to create a barrier against water penetration.
Professionals follow specific techniques in applying these balcony waterproofing membranes to ensure full coverage. Generally, liquid membranes are spread or sprayed, while sheet membranes are rolled out and adhered.
Sealing Joints and Gaps
Areas around edges, corners, joints, and any gaps in the balcony structure are vulnerable to water penetration. To address these issues, professionals use specialised sealants, such as silicone or polyurethane-based sealants, to seal these weak points effectively.
Proper Sloping and Drainage
Aside from the waterproofing job itself, making sure that the balcony has a proper slope is crucial. It helps water flow away from the surface and towards the drainage points. This way, the water won’t remain in one area on the balcony floor, increasing the risk of water penetration and damage.
Professionals might adjust the balcony’s slope or install additional drainage systems like scuppers or drains to prevent water accumulation.
Protective Coatings
Another technique professionals follow is applying protective coatings after the primary waterproofing layer. Bear in mind that the balcony isn’t only exposed to water but also to harsh sunlight. This protective coating provides extra durability and UV protection.
This final layer could be a sealant, paint, or a specific coating designed to enhance the balcony waterproofing membrane’s lifespan.
Nevertheless, the approach to waterproofing varies depending on whether your balcony is new or old. New balconies offer a clean slate for waterproofing, but older balconies might require more preparation and repair work.
Maintain Your Balcony with These Tips
Routine Checks
Inspect your balconies regularly and check for any signs of damage, cracks, or wear on the waterproofing surface. Look for areas where water might accumulate or where the coating seems compromised.
It is best to call a professional if you encounter some issues. This way, you can address the problems more effectively and not incur more balcony waterproofing costs for a rework.
Clean
Remember, cleanliness is key. Keep the balcony clean by regularly sweeping away debris and dirt. Clean spills promptly to prevent stains and potential damage to the waterproofing layer. Another thing you have to remember about cleaning your balcony, though, is you must avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the waterproofing material.
Avoid Heavy Impact
Protecting the balcony waterproofing membrane requires you to be careful about what you place on the surface.
Experts recommend that you minimise heavy impacts or sharp objects on the balcony surface because they can puncture or damage the waterproofing layer.
Address Cracks Immediately
If you see any cracks or damages on your balcony surface, make sure that you repair them promptly. In doing so, you can avoid further issues due to negligence—small cracks can escalate if left unattended.
Reapply Protective Coatings
Since balconies are on the exterior parts of the house, it is unavoidable that protective coatings on the waterproofing membranes will degrade due to weathering. With that, you must reapply coatings, sealants, or waterproof paint for the balcony floor to enhance durability and effectiveness.
In or Out, Superior Waterproofing Can Help You Out!
Whether you need balcony waterproofing or any type of waterproofing for your home, our team at Superior Waterproofing has your back! Our licenced and experienced waterproofing professionals have helped homeowners in Australia achieve water-tight properties.
We guarantee that you will get value for your money with our services. Feel free to call us at +61468760750 for more information about our offers. Alternatively, you may email info@superiorwaterproofing.com.au, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.