When designing a balcony area, it’s easy to focus on finding the perfect pots, plants and patio furniture but one of the most important things to select is the right flooring. Choose wisely and you will have a beautiful, low maintenance and relaxing outdoor space to enjoy for many years to come, but make the wrong choice and you could be faced with many problems including slippery surfaces and damaging leaks. My Shower is the trusted choice for leaking balcony repairs in Perth, let’s explore some balcony flooring materials that look great, are long-lasting and are specially designed to withstand the elements.
Interlocking Deck Tiles
A simple and cost effective flooring solution, these tiles are made of wood, plastic or composite materials and they simply snap together without the use of fasteners or adhesives. Strong and durable, and available in a variety of colours and sizes, many of these products can be installed over any type of base, making them ideal for both wood and concrete balconies.
Concrete
If your existing balcony is made of concrete, or you’re planning to add a new concrete balcony, leaving it bare may give a better finish than covering it with another type of flooring. Modern concrete floors offer much more than boring shades of grey, they can be painted or stained to add your colour of choice, or stencilled, stamped, etched or engraved to add unique patterns and textures.
Exterior Tiles
Tiles designed and rated for outdoor use are an ideal balcony floor covering. You can choose from natural stone or traditional porcelain styles in a vast array of shapes, colours and finishes. Tiles can be installed directly on to a concrete balcony, however balconies built from a wooden structure will require a cement board to be laid underneath the tiles.
Porcelain tiles – One of the most popular balcony flooring materials, these tiles are highly durable and non-porous nature which will prevent water absorption and be resistant to mould and mildew growth. Choose matte-finish tiles with anti-skid properties for the safest option.
Natural stone tiles – Popular natural stone materials include sandstone and slate. These tiles are also durable, sturdy and long lasting and have a natural beauty that adds warmth and character to a balcony space. These tiles are porous and will needs to be sealed periodically to ensure there’s no water penetration that could result in balcony leaks.
Terracotta tiles – Rustic and earthy, handmade terracotta tiles add a sense of style and sophistication to an outdoor area. Naturally resistant to mould and mildew, terracotta tiles will not fade from continuous exposure to sunlight or UV light so they are perfect for balconies. These tiles are very porous and have a tendency to retain water, so opt for a style with a non-slip glaze or coating to prevent water seeping through.
Things to Consider
Before installing any heavy flooring, it’s a good idea to consult a structural engineer or architect as adding too much weight to your balcony can compromise its structural integrity, which could result in property damage or serious injury.
Another very important consideration is waterproofing. A balcony floor that has become weak due to water damage is extremely unsafe. Your balcony floor should slope to an area where the water can drain away adequately and the subfloor should have a waterproof membrane so it is never exposed to moisture.
Is Your Balcony Leaking?
My Shower can repair any leaking balcony without the need to remove tiles. If you are in need for effective and affordable leaking balcony repairs in Perth, get in touch with us today on 1300 055 088 or request a quote online now.