Welcome to my blog. My name is Deborah. About 15 years ago, I bought an old home. We worked with several contractors to rehabilitate it, but ultimately, the foundation simply wasn't stable enough, and we had to tear it down. After that, we worked with a construction crew to build a home from the ground up. The experience was exciting and challenging, and I learned a lot through that process. I want to share construction and contracting facts and information with others so I decided to start this blog. I hope that you like the results, and I thank you for reading. Enjoy!
Before you take on waterproofing a balcony, there a few things you should consider. The truth is, you should look beyond the surface level of the key considerations and make sure you are seeing the big picture, especially if you are dealing with both timber and concrete materials. Here are a few of those waterproofing considerations and how to tackle them for your timber and concrete balcony project.
Method of Waterproofing
The first thing to consider is how you want to tackle the waterproofing project as a whole. This consideration deals directly with the type of waterproofing products available and how they are applied. If you aren't aware of the options, then you need to consider them first. You have spray options, waterproofing mixed with a paint or stain, and a paint on waterproofing that is applied after the paint or stain is dried.
The method you choose should take into account how high your balcony is, if the method can be used on both timber and concrete, and if it will affect the area around the balcony adversely. For example, spray on options are easy to apply but could easily hit glass on sliding doors and windows. If the windows aren't easily covered and protected, then you may want to consider a paint on option.
Surrounding Area
When you are waterproofing a basement or outdoor deck, you really don't have to think much about the surrounding area. When you are working on a balcony, there are some considerations when it comes to the surrounding area. In addition to considering windows and doors that may be affected, you may also want to consider plants as well as patios and the siding of your home. This can be especially important if you want to use a waterproofing agent that is has a stain or color that may affect the current color of your siding.
Also, if you are using a separate waterproofing option for concrete and timber, you may want to consider how these will interact not only with each other but also with the area around it. For example, you should know if it will cause damage to the foundation of the balcony, the attachments, or the exterior wall itself.
Tools and Equipment
The idea of handling waterproofing your balcony yourself may seem like a great idea, until you actually start. For example, if you do not have the right ladders or painting equipment, it can make your job difficult. You may feel this is something you would check beforehand, but what you think will work might not when it comes time to work on the project. For example, a ladder may be the right height, but not allow you to reach certain areas. If you find yourself in this situation, you should have a backup plan. This plan can include a local home improvement rental option or using a waterproofing or general contractor.
These are just three considerations when you take on waterproofing a balcony that is both timber and concrete. If you have any questions about the project itself, consider consulting a contractor like those at Lucas Water Proofing Systems Vic. Pty Ltd or your local home improvement store.
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