Omid Ghanadiof
Oct 15, 2022
Balcony Damage
As the deadline for the California Balcony ordinance SB721 and SB326 comes closer and closer, the leading California-based engineering inspection company, EEEAdvisor, provide more tips for inspections of your buildings and apartments to ensure you can comply correctly and easily. Preventative Maintenance and Repair is Key to a Great Balcony. One of the most common balcony issues comes from a lack of good maintenance, flashing, and waterproofing issue.
The terms “balcony” and “deck” are terms often used interchangeably when they are, in fact, two very different outdoor structures. A balcony is a raised platform above the ground floor and outside a building or home. It is often supported by pillars or wall brackets. Basically, a balcony is encircled by walls or a guardrail. A deck is an elevated platform only slightly above the ground and typically made from lumber.
Great care for the construction and installation of either of these structures ought to be the utmost priority, yet it doesn’t always happen. All too often, homeowners and contractors skip steps or cut corners to save money on materials and labor costs and avoid time delays. Unfortunately, these practices can lead to unintended consequences that can result in building flaws and water damage, which is exceptionally bad! Water settles in low places like cracks, holes, gaps, and crevices. When water seeps into those places, it weakens the structural integrity of building materials.
Two Signs of Balcony Water Damage
Rust stains on concrete, metal, paint, stucco, and composite materials.
Dry rot—a fungal growth that destroys and softens the wood.
The best policy to avoid water damage is to use the correct construction and installation methods at the beginning. In other words, do it right the first time! Below are five effective water damage prevention techniques and tools to consider when building a balcony or deck.
Five Crucial Prevention Steps to Avoid Water Damage
Correct Floor Slopes—Balcony and deck floors should be sloped away from a building. When water is allowed to collect in low-lying areas, it can cause wood to warp and soften and railings to rust and turn brittle.
Install Flashings—Flashings allow water to drain away from doors, windows, and roofs when correctly installed.
Waterproof Wood Trim—The lumber is primed and painted; so, it is sealed against water penetration, preventing water from being absorbed into its fibers.
Apply Sealants—Sealants applied to concrete, stucco, and untreated wood will repel water for five to 20 years.
Use Composite materials—Composite materials used for decks arrive already treated and sealed. Depending on the product, the materials can be water resistant for a minimum of 25 years.
The Balcony and Deck Show Wear and Water Damage, What Now?
When a balcony or deck’s materials reveal signs of water damage, it is time to call a structural engineer or another building professional specializing in water recovery methods. Such a person can inspect and recommend the best way to repair or replace materials according to compliance with local building codes. A routine inspection will include a visual probe, an in-depth evaluation, and a remediation plan. Costs can vary from specialist to specialist. Getting two or three quotes will aid in finding the right company that meets individual needs and building use goals.
Give EEEadvisor a call today at 8053128508 ! Get all balcony and deck inspection diagnosed and fixed thoroughly and quickly.