Balcony waterproofing is important as balconies are often exposed to rain. Some homes also use balconies to wash their clothes. Thus, balconies are prone to water damage.
Why Is There A Need To Waterproof My Balcony
While concrete may seem tough, and indestructible, it is actually porous and can thus absorb liquid.
This might sound normal. However, long-term exposure of our balconies to water will weaken the concrete structure. Cracks might begin to appear which in turn causes more water to seep in.
In order to stop moisture absorption, waterproofing can be done.
Types Of Waterproofing
Balcony waterproofing is often done by application of a concrete sealant. There are many kinds of concrete sealants in the market. Some concrete sealants have a silicone base and others have a water base. Each kind of sealant has their own pros and cons.
Before you purchase a concrete sealant, it is advisable to consider which is most suitable for you.
Silicone Based Sealers – silicone based sealers are generally more expensive than water-based ones. However, silicone based sealers are longer lasting, requiring less frequent reapplication. They are less affected by rain the day after application compared to water based sealers. Silicone based sealers have a strong odour.
Water-based Sealers – water-based sealers are easier to apply and can be cleaned up easily if spilled. When the sealer is wet and curing, it can break down and be washed away by more water. As a result, accidental spillage can be cleared without as much difficulty. They are not as long-lasting compared to silicone-based sealers. As they contain less VOCs, water-based sealers are better for the environment.
Sealing
Before starting to seal your balcony, it is important to check the weather forecast. As sealants require two to three days to cure, it is best to ensure good weather for the next few days before beginning.
Firstly, clean your balcony. Use a scrubber or power washer to remove debris and stains off your balcony. As the sealer will preserve everything in your balcony, it is important to remove what you do not wish to preserve. Let your balcony dry completely.
For edges of the balcony, use a paintbrush to seal the perimeter of the balcony. For the res of the balcony, use a paint roller.
Once every area has been sealed, let the sealer to cure for at least 48hours before putting furniture back and using the balcony.
Paint can be applied on top of the sealer once it has cleared. Use a gentle cleanser to remove debris off regularly.
If you don’t have time to spare to waterproof your balcony, you might want to consider hiring a balcony waterproofing contractor to help you.
