Indice
Waterproof balcony without removal: innovative liquid solutions for existing floors
How to waterproof a balcony without removing the existing floor
These days, the need to remove the existing floor on a balcony even if damaged, is solved by advanced innovation in new waterproofing technology.
How to waterproof a balcony without demolishing it?
By far the best solution is to use eco-friendly, water-based liquid waterproofing products that are resistant to U.V. and thermal shocks plus can preserve structures from the agression of water and atmospheric agents.
Understanding balcony decay and the advantages of non-destructive waterproofing
Balconies and terraces are the main places in the house where atmospheric agents can cause decay, with the result that over a period of time this could involve a large part of the structure. Among the main causes of decay is the affect from water – especially acid rain – and the presence in the air of polluting elements, such as carbon dioxide, which when reacting with lime causes carbonation corroding of the concrete. This combined with freezing conditions and frost cycles especially on paved balconies, can cause tiles to debond and generate cracks. This can also damage the reinforcement which if unprotected, can get covered by rust, weakening the structure and causing even more long term damage.
The waterproofing of balconies and terraces is one of the most requested solutions in renovation works, a market that in 2021 reached almost 75% of the entire value in the construction sector. The possibility of creating an effective barrier to water and humidity infiltrations without having to remove the existing flooring means not only saving time and money, but also following the principles of sustainable construction, avoiding to overload landfill with polluting inert materials.
The crucial role of substrate preparation and modern solutions
What is really important in waterproofing solutions in general, and on terraces and balconies in particular, is the preparation of the substrate. In fact, the full success of the work will depend on this phase. Before starting this work, not only the flooring but also the wall lining must be inspected and repaired if required. A correct maintenance and preparation of the substrate, especially when working on an existing flooring must be done using guaranteed products and systems in line with the building regulations. This is now possible using single-component pastes that are extremely effective to prepare the substrate and restore the correct slopes, and using specific mortars designed to deal with damp surfaces subject to extreme temperature changes. In addition, in order to allow the wall base to form an effective protective barrier, it is recommended to use pre-mixed waterproofing products, applied on both polymer-bitumen membranes and liquid waterproofing products.
Advanced waterproofing technologies: durability and environmental benefits
Water and humidity are not the only factors that generally compromise the structural strength of balconies: the damage caused from constant ultraviolet rays and, more generally, the climatic changes that lead to freezing and thawing cycles can start the stagnation of water which over time has a dangerous corrosive action. The answer to this comes again from modern technology: the innovation of modern waterproofing systems that protect for a long time, even in the most severe external conditions. The best results are obtained just using liquid waterproofing products which, being extremely easy to use can reach any affected area without any difficulty. There are water-based formulations (without solvents that pollute or are harmful to health), additives with modified resins and synthetic fibers that offer an excellent resistance to water stagnation and to the aging caused by U.V. rays. These products which can also be used at temperatures from 0 to 45 degrees, on substrates that have permanent problems of humidity or even wet, and can be applied to any type of substrate: concrete, ceramic, marble, brick, existing bituminous membranes, etc.
Innovative and transparent protective solutions
Modern technology offers extremely high performing single-product and systemic solutions, so inventive that they not just give perfect waterproofing, but they also carry out a protective solution on the treated substrates. In particular, low viscosity transparent protective waterproofing products are applied directly on the finished layer, leaving the visible face of the tiles unaltered. Invisible and effective and above all, a long-lasting waterproofing solution.
FAQ
Is it really possible to waterproof a balcony without removing the existing flooring? How does it work?
Yes, thanks to modern liquid waterproofing technologies. After the thorough preparation and cleaning of the existing surface, innovative liquid products are applied directly onto the old flooring. These create a new, continuous, and elastic protective layer that is resistant to water, weathering, and UV rays, all without needing to remove the old tiles.
What are the main advantages of this solution compared to a traditional refurbishment involving demolition?
The advantages are significant. First and foremost, it offers substantial savings in time and money, avoiding the costs and disruption of demolition and material disposal. Secondly, it is a more sustainable choice as it produces no rubble for landfill. Finally, the work is far less invasive for the home.
If a product is applied over my current flooring, will it ruin the appearance of the tiles? Are transparent options available?
Not necessarily. Specific solutions exist for those who want to maintain the original look of their flooring. The most advanced technologies include low-viscosity transparent protective waterproofers, which are applied directly on top of the existing tiles. They create an invisible and effective barrier against water ingress, leaving the surface’s appearance completely unaltered.
