How can I repair my balcony?
Property maintenance is an important task that a homeowner takes on to ensure their home is taken care of. One of those maintenance “to-do’s” include balcony repairs. Since balconies are normally the front of the home, the type of repairs that are needed are dependent on the specific balcony design and material. For example, a cantilevered balcony may need repair that extends inward into the structure of the building itself, since the base of the balcony would be built into the structural beams of the building.
What kind of balcony do you have?
A few different types of balconies include:
- Cantilevered balconies – they are attached to the building’s structure that is supported to a beam or bracket attached to the building.
- Post-supported balconies – they are supported by independent posts or columns
- Suspended balconies – are attached to the building’s facade. It may be supported using rods, cables or brackets.
By identifying what type of balcony you can assess it properly to be able to perform repairs.
Are there structural issues?
Look around the balcony, is there any noticeable damage?
Different types of structural issues to keep in mind:
- Sagging
- Rotted wood beams
- Cracked wood beams
- Rusted metal supports
- Loose wooden pieces
These types of issues can cause much more serious damage later on if not addressed when noticed.
What's up with the hardware?
As time passes, nails, fasteners, screws and nails can start to get loose or rust which can be a safety hazard. Things that can be done to prevent this from happening is to replace the rusted nails or screws with stainless-steel or galvanized hardware. You can also reinforce any weak connection points with tightening loose areas.
Future prevention?
Wooden Balcony care should include sanding and staining the wood to avoid UV and moisture damage. To further avoid water damage, applying waterproof sealants can help mask the wood to become water proof. Another thing that can be done is replacing damaged caulking that is around the seams and joints.
If major repairs are needed contact a professional
There are repairs that can definitely be handled by homeowners by looking up a YouTube video, more significant structural issues should be taken care of with a professional expertise. This would ensure the repairs are done correctly, complying with building codes and safety standards. By maintaining your balcony, you can take the necessary precautions in making sure it is safe and aesthetically pleasing.