Types and life of balcony waterproofing and remodeling at home

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Balcony Waterproofing is an important process during construction. It prevents water seepage, thereby reducing any probability of damage to the ceiling, roof, or balcony. The balcony waterproofing contains asphalt in synthetic fiber and nonwoven fabric to form a waterproof layer, but this is a construction method for rooftops. It is often used for verandas and balconies. Here, you will know in detail about the “waterproof layer” and “top coat”.

The need for waterproof

balcony waterproofing
balcony waterproofing

The floor of your veranda and balcony is affected by ultraviolet rays and rain. So, it is necessary to do balcony waterproofing. There are types of waterproofing work such as FRP, urethane, and sheet (PVC/rubber) waterproofing. Each of them has its pros and cons. This article throws light on this and will help you decide the best waterproofing method for your place.

How does veranda waterproofing work?

The floor surface of a veranda or balcony consists of creating a “waterproof layer” on the base and applying a “topcoat” to the balcony waterproofing surface. In addition, there is also a construction method to affix “tarpaulin” made of synthetic rubber or vinyl chloride resin.

When the material undergoes a chemical reaction and hardens, an elastic, rubbery waterproof layer is formed.

Even in confined spaces and places with complex shapes, it is characterized by being able to form a seamless, complete waterproof film. In addition, the moisture contained in the base material can be degassed. Therefore, it is difficult for blistering to occur. It is also suitable for construction in places without rooftops, roof balconies, etc.

Waterproof layer

The types of balcony waterproofing layers can be broadly divided into the following two.

There are two types of waterproofing [FRP (fiber reinforced plastics) waterproofing” and [Urethane waterproofing] to layer the top coat on the waterproof layer. Finish while layering paint with a waterproof function. It is mainstream to use synthetic rubber sheets or vinyl chloride sheet waterproofing.

Depending on the material, the service life varies

Usually, the waterproof layer’s life is for 10~15 years. The waterproof layer will become obsolete in around 10 ~ 15 years. However, it deteriorates daily due to stimuli such as sunlight, wind, and rain. Let’s renovate it about once every ten years as a guide.

The top coat should be repainted once every five years as a guide

The top coat needs to be repainted every five years. If the topcoat is a protective paint and, it is deteriorating, it is easy for the waterproof layer to degenerate due to the direct influence of heat and ultraviolet irritation. If only the top coat is damaged or deteriorated, repair and maintenance are easy. However, a large-scale repair is required if the waterproof layer has deteriorated. It also leads to the restoration of aesthetics and heat shielding measures, so let’s repaint the top coat frequently.

Topcoat

balcony waterproofing
balcony waterproofing

The surface of the balcony waterproofing layer of the balcony floor is painted with a paint called a topcoat. It is mainly painted grey. But there are many colour variations, such as beige, white, and green. The top coat has the role of protecting the waterproof layer from ultraviolet rays, and there are mainly two types of types:

  • Polyester
  • Urethane system

Polyester has excellent wear resistance, but it has low elasticity. Urethane is a stretcher than polyester. So, it is also suitable for overcoating.

Conclusion

If damage or deterioration symptoms appear, it is important to perform maintenance as soon as possible. It is also recommended to renovate before the life of the waterproof layer expires. As the life of the waterproofing layer approaches, not only does it deteriorate, but the risk of rain leakage also increases. Therefore, it is a good idea to check with the remodeling/ balcony waterproofing company whether the topcoat needs to be painted. In the case of a roof balcony without a roof, there are cases where it is safer to have the top coat also applied.