How To Fix A Leaking Balcony

Have you been noticing water seepage from your balcony and wondering what could be causing it? A leaking balcony can be a nightmare, especially if it leads to water damage inside your home.

Balconies are an appealing feature of any property, providing an extra space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. However, they are prone to damage due to various factors such as expansion and contraction, structural movement, and wear and tear from climate stressors If left unattended, even a small leak can lead to significant water damage to your property.

If you have a leaking balcony, you need to take immediate action before the problem becomes more severe. Luckily, there are simple and effective solutions available for fixing a leaking balcony, such as the use of liquid-applied membranes and taking other measures In this article, we will provide a guide to leaking balcony repairs that will help you to identify the sources of the leak and fix it in no time. From identifying the cause to materials and techniques, we've got you covered

Causes of Balcony Leaks

Balcony leaks are caused by a variety of factors that include weather conditions, building movement, membrane failure, and inadequate waterproofing

Weather conditions can impact the structural integrity of a building. Heavy rainfall, exposure to the sun, and fluctuations in temperature cause building materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks and gaps that allow water to seep in.

Building movement is another common cause of balcony leaks Buildings naturally settle and shift over time, which can cause cracks in balcony surfaces that allow water to seep in and eventually cause water damage

Waterproofing is one of the most important aspects of balcony construction. A poorly designed waterproof system that does not conform to the Australian Standard will cause water leaks The pooling of water on balcony surfaces that do not have minimal falls can also lead to balcony leaks if not drained properly.

Tips and techniques to fix balcony leaks

Fixing a leaking balcony requires removing the tiles and repairing any damage to the waterproofing membrane before replacing the tiles. Here are a few steps to follow when fixing a leaking balcony:

1. Identify the source of the leak – Before repairing the balcony, it is crucial to identify the source of the leak This will help you determine the extent of the damage and the items that need repair

2. Remove tiles – After the source of the leak has been identified, the next step is to remove the tiles to gain access to the membrane below it. Tiles and grout need to be removed carefully to prevent further damage

3. Inspect the Membrane – After removing the tiles, inspect the membrane for any signs of damage Check to see if the membrane has lifted or torn in any areas

4. Repair any damage – If you find any damage to the waterproofing membrane, repair it. Depending on the type of membrane used, repair materials can range from liquid membrane to dry patch materials

5. Test repaired area – Once the membrane has been repaired, test the repaired area by running water onto the repaired surface and observing for any signs of leakage. Confirm the water drains off the balcony area correctly

6. Replace tiles – If there are no signs of further leaks, it is then time to replace the tiles.

Preventative Measures

To prevent future balcony leaks, it is crucial to take preventative measures to maintain the waterproofing system A few things to do include:

1. Regularly inspect the balcony for signs of damage. This will help you identify any potential problems early on before they get worse

2. Ensure you have minimum falls to prevent the pooling of water.

3 Verify that the waterproofing system conforms to the Australian Standard

4 Ensure your balcony has exposure to fresh air, to assist in drying out the materials after heavy rain.

Balcony repair is not a DIY project, as the complexities of the work require industry knowledge Building Code and Australian Standard regulations may come into play, especially when waterproofing balconies in new construction like planning bathroom renovations or any redevelopment project

The best course of action is to contact a leaking balcony repairs contractor as the reputable repairer will maintain a quality and warranty to the work that is completed With the right repair materials and knowledge, a leaking balcony does not need to turn into water damage and costly repairs