What to use for waterproofing a balcony. Self-waterproofing of an open balcony

Today, a balcony or loggia is not used as a storage room where various unnecessary things are stored. Every family tries to convert their balcony or loggia into a small, cozy addition to their living space. Installing a roof and glazing is not enough for this. If you do not waterproof the balcony from the inside, seal it and vapor barrier, you may incur considerable financial losses in the future. What these works are and how to perform them correctly you will learn from this article.

Balcony waterproofing

Waterproofing– protection of building materials and structures from the destructive effects of water. Absence results waterproofing coatings can be seen on the balconies of the upper floors, which do not have a roof or glazing, onto which water constantly flows from the roof. On closed balconies, loggias, moisture gets inside due to poorly performed sealing work.

Concrete destruction is observed at the junction points balcony slab to the façade, its edges are heavily crumbled and cracks and shells are often visible on the surface.

What needs to be done to avoid such a situation? One of the prerequisites is to waterproof the balcony (loggia) with sealing of the seams.

You can use the services of specialists, but this is justified for external work on the upper floors. It is quite possible to waterproof a balcony from the inside with your own hands. It is necessary to pay attention to the sealing of all seams, regardless of their condition.

First, let's look at what waterproofing a balcony or loggia is.

The diagram below shows that when carrying out these works, waterproofing mastic creates a protective layer, and sealing of seams and restoration of damaged parts of the balcony slab is carried out using sealants.

Conditional diagram of waterproofing a balcony slab

Materials used in waterproofing work are divided into several types:

Coating compositions – bitumen-polymer, cement-polymer, bitumen-rubber. They form an elastic coating that requires a screed on top.
Penetrating compounds are the most durable and popular. Apply to a damp surface and fill all cracks. They also increase the strength of building materials by 15-20%. But it can only be used for waterproofing concrete surfaces.
Pasting materials – polymer (vinyl plastic, polyethylene) and non-polymer (fiberglass, roofing felt). They are rarely used for waterproofing balconies (loggias), since working with them is expensive and labor-intensive.

Let's consider step by step how to waterproof a balcony and loggia together with sealing.

Waterproofing the floor

Work begins with execution concrete screed. For open balcony it is necessary to make a screed with a slope of 2%. It is necessary for the free flow of water from the surface of the slab. The screed is reinforced with metal mesh.

When making a screed, three types of seams are required:

Compensation – formed when laying the pressure layer. Another name is temperature.
Forced - seams dividing the screed into squares.
Wall-mounted – located at the junction of the balcony slab with the façade slab.

Subsequently, the seams are filled 50% with mastic for sealing, into which an elastic cord is pressed.

The screed is cleaned of dust and debris, and a primer is applied to it for better adhesion. One of the best is Primer WB.

Apply several layers of polyurethane mastic (for example Hyperdesmo RV) to the moistened concrete. The final thickness of insulation on the floor of a balcony or loggia must be at least 20 mm.

In addition to the floor, the waterproofing layer should extend up to 150-200 mm onto the walls.

Application of polyurethane waterproofing to the floor of a balcony (loggia)

Waterproofing the loggia from the inside using polystyrene foam and vapor barrier film

Sealing and waterproofing the balcony ceiling from the inside

After glazing a balcony or loggia during precipitation, we sometimes see an unpleasant picture - the balcony is leaking. This could happen if the ceiling and roof of the balcony (loggia) were not sealed and waterproofed.

If the balconies are poorly sealed, the joints of the windows leak, the roof leaks from above, and the floors flood. How to fix this defect?

From the inside, all work to eliminate leaks can be done independently. We seal all seams. We use polyurethane sealant Germoplast or Emfi. Before covering the defects, we use a grinder to cut out the seams and cracks, clean them of dust and moisten them with water. We also pay attention to dark spots on the ceiling - in these places there may be microcracks through which water also flows. We also cut them and seal them.

Sealing seams polyurethane sealant

Next, we examine the glazing of the balcony (loggia). Often frames are installed with violations of technology. These defects will have to be corrected yourself. Otherwise, after sealing and waterproofing the ceiling, we will constantly observe how water flows through the cracks in the glazing.

When installing glazing, polyurethane foam is used. When exposed to ultraviolet rays, the foam is destroyed and water flows freely through these seams. It is necessary to partially remove the outer layer of foam and fill the formed groove with a hydro-swelling elastic cord. When exposed to moisture, the cord expands in volume and prevents water from leaking in this area.

Leaking at the bottom of the loggia frames due to poor sealing

We begin waterproofing the ceiling by cleaning the entire surface and treating it with an antiseptic to protect against fungal mold (for example, Dali). Then we seal cracks and chips using the technology described above.

For the ceiling, it is better to use polyurethane mastic Elastomix or Elastopaz. They have good adhesion and applying it to a damp ceiling surface is not very difficult.

The ceiling is covered with mastic in two layers - the direction of the second is perpendicular to the first. The waterproofing layer is reinforced with mesh after the first layer. To create a durable crystalline protective layer, it is necessary to allow the mastic to harden for 3 days.

When insulating the roof, sheets of foiled polystyrene foam are glued to the ceiling - it also acts as a vapor barrier. The seams between them are also sealed.

Roof waterproofing

It is not always possible to completely seal and waterproof a loggia with your own hands. We are talking about the upper floors - the roof of the loggia is leaking and external work is required. Who should repair the roof covering and fix the leak? You cannot do this kind of work yourself - it is very dangerous. What to do in this case? It is necessary to invite specialists.

How waterproofing and sealing work on balconies (loggias) is carried out can be seen in the video on the Internet.

Conclusion

Now we know that waterproofing protects the balcony (loggia) from premature destruction under the influence of water, and sealing eliminates any leakage, preventing moisture from reaching unprotected surfaces.

As you can see, you can do it yourself using modern materials, carry out sealing and waterproofing work on the loggia and balcony. Protect them from even small leaks and dampness.

A balcony or loggia will turn into a full-fledged living area that can be used at any time for different purposes.

A balcony is a pleasant addition to any apartment or house. At the discretion of the owners, it can serve as a storage room, office, open veranda or winter garden. But regardless of use, the first step is to protect the loggia from moisture.

It is this design that is most susceptible to waterlogging, because precipitation often linger on the balcony slab, gradually destroying it. Waterproofing a balcony, including an open one, helps maintain its functionality over time.

Specifics and purpose of waterproofing

With the development of construction and the emergence of new projects, the design of the loggia also changed. IN multi-storey buildings you can find open balconies consisting of a single slab and metal fencing, semi-closed options with masonry or additional concrete elements around the entire perimeter, as well as fairly large verandas over a bay window or other facade structures.

Waterproofing your balcony will help protect any structure. When open version absence additional protection leads to gradual destruction of the slab, as well as exposure and corrosion of reinforcement and embedded elements that provide adhesion to the load-bearing wall.

In closed and glazed loggias Due to wetness of concrete and finishing materials, fungus may appear, which negatively affects the health of the owners of the apartment or house.

Most often, several waterproofing schemes for balconies are used:

covering only the balcony slab;
treatment of the entire area of the loggia from the inside;
additional protection of the structure from the outside with the installation of a roof and canopies.

Depending on the type and characteristics of the balcony, it is rational to choose one or another type of finish. So, for an open balcony in a standard apartment complex, only floor treatment is quite suitable. And in wooden house It is worth considering complete waterproofing of balconies both inside and outside to protect the material from rotting and gradual destruction.

Any type of processing can be done with your own hands. You just have to be careful about the choice of materials and follow the work technology.

What to use to treat the loggia

After determining one or another waterproofing scheme, the question remains: how to do it? right choice from a variety of materials.

Balcony waterproofing is most often performed using penetrating or coating composites that provide reliable protection floor and ceiling, as well as additional sealing of joints and corners along the entire perimeter of the structure.

Base

For treating the base, compositions based on polymers and liquid rubber, as well as composites with the addition of bitumen.

It must be remembered that all bituminous materials must be applied carefully, because when the temperature rises, which often happens in the summer, such material will begin to melt and give off an unpleasant odor.

External protection

For external treatment and sealing of existing defects in the slab, penetrating compositions based on a mineral binder or polymer-cement composite are quite suitable.

They do a better job of protecting the structure than coating materials.

Internal insulation

At internal processing it is best to use moisture-resistant sealants for sealing seams and special paint and varnish compositions for the main surface.

It is not rational to apply mastic to the ceiling, but corners and seams should be filled as well as possible, so they should be given special attention.

Loggia processing methods

Waterproofing a balcony from the inside is most often one of the preparatory stages before finishing the loggia, so it is often combined with insulation.

The complexity of such repairs is minimal, so it can be done with your own hands.

Preparatory work

Preparation of all surfaces before application protective compounds includes several stages. First, all old ones are deleted Decoration Materials, and existing defects are also repaired.

If the slab is peeling or slightly damaged, a repair screed is performed. For open balconies, the thickness of the fill layer should be at least 3.5 cm and create a slight slope from the wall to the edge of the slab of 1 - 1.5 °.

This technology for waterproofing balconies helps prevent water stagnation and protect the base from waterlogging. It is especially important to make a slight slope if the loggia is located above a bay window or entrance, since waterlogging the slab will lead to the destruction of the finish in these rooms.

After preparing all surfaces, a light primer is applied to them to increase the adhesion of materials. Next, treatment is carried out with the selected waterproofing composition.

Working with coating composites

Mastics and impregnations based on bitumen, latexes, polyurethanes and other polymers are suitable for any type of surface and material. They are able to provide the necessary adhesion to both concrete and brick, and wood.

Pre-humidification

Before applying the coating composition, the surface is additionally moistened. When applying the first layer, the brush or roller must be directed in one direction. To fully waterproof balconies, it is assumed that several layers will be applied to the base and ceiling. Therefore, after a few hours it is necessary to apply the composition a second time in a direction perpendicular to the first layer.

This scheme of work ensures the overlap of polymer films with mutual penetration, which increases waterproofing properties. When using 3 or more layers, it is necessary to add a reinforcing mesh with a mesh size of 50 mm.

Mastics are well suited for treating the surface of the balcony roof under the canopies. In such areas they are used for additional sealing. In a wooden house, the use of coating composites fits better than any others, because the composition penetrates into the upper layers of wood very carefully, without compromising the integrity of its structure.

Application of penetrating materials

The technology for waterproofing balconies using such compounds differs little from working with coating composites. Before application ready mixture the surface of the slab or screed is well moistened.

The first layer is performed in one direction. Before complete curing, its surface is again well wetted and a second layer is applied perpendicular to the first direction. The interval between two applications is no more than 1.5 - 2 hours.

Penetrating compounds rarely use a large number of layers, since excess composite can damage the substrate due to excessive crystal formation. The entire treated surface must be covered with film and protected from any mechanical influences. Sufficient moisture is important for penetrating materials, otherwise crystal growth will cease.

To treat the roof of a loggia, the same materials and the same method of application are most often used. Additionally, all seams are sealed and laid roofing material and visors.

After waterproofing the balconies, their insulation and finishing begins. Properly performed protection against waterlogging will preserve the attractiveness of the entire renovation, as well as the safety and comfort of the microclimate of the loggia.

First provides for waterproofing on the balcony along the screed, without a drainage mat, second with drainage.

Let's consider first circuit based on systems proposed by CERESIT and LITOKOL.

Balcony waterproofing scheme from Cerezite.

They have a lot in common. But there are minor differences:

LITOKOL has LITOSIDE installed in the area where the screed joins the wall - a polyethylene tape for dividing seams in the screed. It is not included in the CERESET diagram. Its purpose is to compensate for linear expansion of the screed throughout the year.
With LITOKOL, the bottom seam of the plinth on the wall is filled with polyurethane sealant, and CERESET is filled with silicone, and it is also applied to the upper end of the plinth. It’s hard to say how much he is needed there. The lower section of the seam will be movable. If you fill it with cement grout, the seam will burst. It would be logical to fill it with sealant. Although, Kiilto also has a similar solution, filling the top of the baseboard with silicone.

There are no other differences. Excluding prices for all components of the waterproofing system and subsequent tiling.

Waterproofing scheme for open balconies from Litokol.

In such (first) system, the insulating layer may differ in the composition of the applied waterproofing. It could be:

Cement, one-component (as in the “CERESIT” and “LITOKOL” schemes discussed above) waterproofing.
Cement, two-component, with modifying additives.
Mastics on acrylic base or elastic liquid membrane.

Cement one-component waterproofing.

The basis of all mixtures of this type of insulation is cement. Water is used for preparation. The preparation technology is similar to any mixtures - dosing water, double mixing. The base must be strong and moisturized (there is no primer for concrete bases, and this is typical for many single-component insulations).

Covers cracks up to 1 mm (mostly 0.75 mm)

The documentation for the use of this type of insulation lists terraces, balconies, horizontal surfaces and swimming pools.

Cement, two-component waterproofing, with modifying additives.

Cement two-component waterproofing

The second component in this insulation (elasticizer) is a polymer dispersion, a viscous milky-white liquid. It imparts high elasticity and bridges cracks with an opening of up to 2 mm. Compared to one-component ones, tensile elongation is up to 40%.

This group contains mixtures (BOTAMENT® MD 28) with good vapor permeability. They can be applied to fresh concrete base without waiting for complete hardening.

Insulating mastics.

Ready-made insulating mastics.

This is a conventional group of insulating mastics, one-component, ready for use. Some of them, like MasterSeal, are based on a polymer acrylic dispersion. Among this group there are membranes for interior and exterior use. Some places of use are indicated with reservations - “cannot be used in swimming pools, underground, etc.”

This type of insulation is also called liquid polyurethane roofing membrane.

The mastic is based on a highly elastic polyurethane resin, which gives the product mechanical, thermal, chemical resistance, as well as resistance to UV radiation.

The list of possible uses of polyurethane mastic is impressive: “Waterproofing of green roofs, flower beds, flower boxes. Waterproofing old glassine and roofing felt. Waterproofing and protection concrete buildings, tunnels, stadium stands, car parks.”

Outdoor polyurethane insulation.

If ceramic tiles are attached to the membrane, the last layer of insulation is sprinkled with coarse sand.

On smooth surfaces ( ceramic tile) Pu Primer must be applied.

Problem areas - connections between walls and floors, 90 degree angles, pipes must be reinforced with mesh or fiberglass NPG 210.

Reinforcement of problem areas with fiberglass.

Second system Waterproofing balconies involves installing drainage after the insulating layer.

Its idea is based on the assertion that water penetrates through the seams in the tiles and accumulates on the waterproofing. If it is not removed, then in winter the tiles and adhesive with the insulation layer are destroyed. And in the summer this leads to the appearance of efflorescence on the tiles.

To confirm that the tiles are not a barrier to the penetration of water into the screed, video:

If the leveling screed is laid on a drainage mat, then the water that has leaked through the seams will flow to the floor drain. This solution prevents moisture from accumulating and freezing under the tiles.

In this scheme, the waterproofing sheet is placed under the drainage mat. In this scheme, the options for constructing a waterproofing sheet are expanded - bituminous materials, pool films......

Waterproofing on the balcony with drainage.

A similar system appeared for the first time in 1985. Supporters of laying drainage under the screed consider an additional advantage of this scheme to be that the elastic structure of the mat absorbs all deformations in the balcony structure. In their opinion, this prevents the appearance of cracks in the screed and seams. Such mats have long been used in the West when laying tiles on wooden floors.

An interesting solution (without a drainage membrane) is in the next video. It’s worth examining it in detail after watching:

What is the difference from the generally accepted approach:

Replacing a conventional screed with a semi-dry one. What gives?

Moisture that may get into the screed in the future will not break it when it freezes. This is the drainage that new technologies strive for, but is a less expensive option.

The semi-dry screed is placed on the adhesive base. The glue creates reliable contact.

Thoughts out loud or what could be improved :

For screed, instead of sand, use screenings or very coarse sand. This will further increase the drainage capacity of the screed without reducing its strength.
Prepare the mixture composition as 1:2, or 1:1.7. Make the moisture content of the mixture a little higher than is generally accepted for semi-dry screeds (here is one of the reasons, unsuccessful examples of this method).
It is important to guess the humidity. When you squeeze the mixture into a fist, water should not come out, but your hand will become wet. Water in this composition is sufficient for a complete reaction of cement. In addition, wet glue is smeared on the base. The solution will additionally draw moisture out of the glue. This is more than enough.

If you cover the screed with film for 6-7 days, the strength will be the same as good concrete. But, at the same time, unlike concrete, there will be no damage due to freezing. The structure of such a screed is similar to the structure of limestone (or shell rock - one of the varieties). Stone buildings and limestone sculptures that are 200 or more years old have still survived (this feature needs to be examined separately and in detail).

Despite the drainage properties of the screed, there is waterproofing on top - an additional safety net.

And one more interesting detail - the adhesive grooves are directed along the possible drainage of penetrated moisture. Perhaps this is a coincidence. But it's a good idea.

Naturally, there is a double coating of glue. If you adhere to the idea of adhesive grooves along the drain, then applying the mixture to the tile should be “scraped”.

P.S.

Vulnerabilities remain:

There is no low tide.
The first damage is possible around metal racks (not always).

There are similar ideas, but with additional (second) drainage system balcony insulation - installation paving slabs from natural stone on prancing with coarse sand (almost screening out granite chips).

More, interesting design with drainage for balconies was recently proposed at a presentation by the company MAPEI.

The role of drainage is performed by glue grooves applied with large-format teeth. Lightly press the mesh into the fresh glue using a large trowel:

Drainage from adhesive grooves.

If water is poured onto such a structure, it will flow through the drainage channels made of glue to the drainage gutter. The tiles are laid on the second day, applying glue to the back side with a notched trowel and across the drainage channels:

Grouting joints with elastic grout Ultracolor Plus.
Laying around the perimeter, where the tiles meet the gutter, a cord made of Mapefoam pressed polyethylene foam.
Application over sealing cord silicone sealant Mapeisil LM.

Balcony waterproofing scheme from MAPEI.

In general, durability tiled cladding on the floor of open balconies and terraces - this is a problem. Increasingly, solutions are emerging not to glue the tiles, but to lay them dry, on a layer of crushed stone:

Laying slabs on the balcony floor without glue.

... Or, like a constructor with drainage under the structure (video):

Below is a collection of videos (playlist) on waterproofing open balconies.

The playlist displays the best twenty foreign videos on waterproofing balconies and is constantly updated.

or to the second channel with my video.

In the last decade, the glazing service for loggias has become widespread. Every day there are more and more people who want to give it a more attractive look. There is another reason. Sometimes balconies from above leak so much that careful sealing is simply necessary.

At the same time, it is important to understand: for this room to turn into a cozy extension of the apartment, glazing alone is clearly not enough. It is equally important to protect it from moisture penetrating from the street. For this purpose, special materials are used. Quite often, people are hired to carry out such work. experienced craftsmen, however, the advice of professionals will help even a beginner to cope with the work with his own hands.

This concept includes a set of works aimed at protecting a building structure from moisture. Water can penetrate the loggia during rain, snow, evaporation from the basement (on the first floors), from the roof or top floor.

Waterproofing the balcony from the outside and inside allows you to create a durable protective layer from special materials that prevents moisture from getting inside. Thanks to this, it is possible to solve several problems at once.

Protection from destruction. When moisture gets into microcracks in concrete or other building material, it begins to destroy it. As a result, repairs will be required very soon.
Blocking the development of mold and mildew. High humidity in the room sooner or later leads to the appearance of fungus and mold on the walls, ceiling and floor. This phenomenon can often be seen in a bathtub or sanitary unit, where there is a constant presence of high humidity air. This factor negatively affects the health of apartment residents and contributes to the appearance of unpleasant odor. Waterproofing the loggia from the inside will completely solve this issue.
Corrosion protection. Metal fastenings and elements in contact with water are susceptible to corrosion. The appearance of rust indicates the beginning of the destruction of the metal.

All surfaces of the loggia need waterproofing: walls, floor and ceiling.

Types of materials

The construction products market today offers dozens of different types of materials. Construction foreman You can easily choose a suitable product from this assortment, but a beginner in this business will have a hard time. It is better not to rely on the advice of consultants in the store, but to choose the right building material according to building regulations and requirements.

In this case, waterproofing the balcony from the inside will give good result. All coatings are divided into just a few groups.

Coatings (they are also often called cast polymer coatings). This option is one of the most reliable and easy to install with your own hands. Typical representatives of this class are considered asphalt pavements, mastics. The only drawback of this technology is its high cost.
Impregnation. These materials penetrate deeply into construction material and reliably protect it. There are special penetrating compounds for concrete, wood, and other materials.
Rolled. Installing such moisture protection will not allow residents to regret their choice. These polymer-bitumen coatings guarantee high reliability and long service life, but installation requires a lot of labor and experience.
Coloring compounds. The main purpose of such materials is protection from moisture metal elements. Among the advantages are relative cheapness and ease of application of insulation.
Plastering. This method is considered one of the most famous and simplest. At the same time, over many years of use it has proven its high efficiency.
Leaf protection. This class is represented by metal and plastic sheets. It is rational to use them only in cases where other options cannot be used for some reason.
Injection protection. This type is used for spot insulation of cracks and seams. Such sealing of the balcony becomes possible with the use of astringent solutions.

Preparatory work

Before you start repair work with your own hands, the surface must be carefully prepared. The quality of workmanship and service life of the coating will depend on this.

If there is a floor decorative finishing carry out its dismantling. All work must be carried out carefully to avoid damage to the concrete slab.
The slab itself is inspected and all potholes, damage and cracks are found.
All areas with loose exfoliated concrete are removed using a hammer drill.
Thoroughly clean the base from dirt and dust. This can be done quickly and conveniently using a brush with long, stiff bristles.
If there are small cracks on the slab, they are slightly expanded with a hammer drill. This will allow the solution to penetrate deeper and harden well. Large cracks are leveled to a U-shaped groove.
If during the destruction of the balcony slab the reinforcement is exposed, signs of corrosion are carefully removed from it. The best way to deal with this is a special chemical composition.
The metal, cleaned of rust, is coated with an anti-corrosion compound.
Before waterproofing the balcony slab, it is restored. To do this, you can use ordinary cement or special compounds.
Inspect the walls of the balcony and the roof, note everything problem areas, in which the balcony leaks.

Is it possible to do without glazing?

Many people wonder whether waterproofing an open balcony is necessary? Experts agree that it is necessary. Despite the fact that precipitation will continue to fall here, the balcony slab remains sufficiently protected from water penetration. This significantly extends its service life and slows down destruction.

Those who decide to completely block the entry of moisture will still have to think about installing double-glazed windows. This is especially important when it comes to waterproofing a balcony over a bay window or other living space.

First of all, double-glazed windows and external cornice are installed. All gaps and cracks are eliminated. Usually, after glazing, the balcony is sealed by the craftsmen themselves. However, if after this there are gaps left, you can deal with them yourself. Just need to use polyurethane foam or sealant intended for use in conditions of temperature changes.

Floor arrangement

First of all, you should make sure that moisture is drained correctly. If the slope is made from the wall, then waterproofing the floor on the balcony can continue. If the slope is made towards the wall, then all the water will flow towards the house. You need to fix this yourself using a screed. To do this, prepare a mixture of cement and sand (ratio 1:3), apply it to the cleaned base of the balcony slab. The angle of repose for moisture removal should be 1-2 degrees to the outside.

After the screed has dried and hardened, you can proceed to further steps:

Clean the base from dirt, dust, and thoroughly moisten it.
Cover the slab with a layer of penetrating material. It is best to always make strokes in the same direction. This will help prevent peeling.
After drying, the surface is covered with a second layer. This time the strokes are made in a direction perpendicular to the first layer. This will give maximum protection against water.
This layer is periodically moistened for 3 days, not allowing it to dry out.
The next layer is a rolled foil insulator. The sheets are overlapped by several cm. The joints of the sheets are glued together with mastic.
Wood beams are installed on the floor, and the gaps between them are filled with polystyrene foam.
All formed seams and joints are eliminated with polyurethane foam.
The subfloor is laid on the beams. For this purpose it is often used OSB boards, securing them with self-tapping screws.
Conduct finishing floor.

If you need to protect a balcony above a bay window, porch or alcove from moisture, then insulation should be carried out as carefully as possible, since the appearance of a leak will cause damage internal repairs the room located below.

Working with walls and partitions

For finishing walls and partitions when waterproofing a balcony, it is most convenient to use rolled materials, for example, foil rolled polystyrene foam. It is attached to vertical surface with help construction mixture. When purchasing this mixture, you need to pay attention to its frost-resistant characteristics.

After the layer has hardened, the surface is generously moistened with water and covered with a coating composition in 2 layers. Waterproofing a balcony in a wooden house is carried out using special transparent varnishes that do not damage appearance natural wood.

Correct ceiling finish

For ceiling works You can call a professional or do this task yourself.

If the balcony is leaking from above, the question arises: “what to do?” Let's start with the fact that preparatory stage detect all roof leaks through which moisture penetrates inside. Usually there are quite a lot of them and they are not difficult to find - stains form around the cracks and are wet to the touch. During the repair, all defects of the ceiling on the balcony are eliminated:

for better adhesion, the ceiling is generously wetted with water;
a layer of mastic is applied to the ceiling surface using a brush;
The first layer is left to partially dry. When the mastic has set a little, apply a second layer on top;
In addition to the ceiling itself, sources of leakage include the joints of the ceiling and walls. To minimize the risk, the joint and walls (15-20 cm from the ceiling) are also covered with impregnating mastic;
from the moment of applying the mastic for 3 days, the painted surface must be moistened with a spray bottle and covered with a film, protecting it from drying out;
waterproofing of the balcony roof can be carried out using polystyrene foam boards. They are attached using special fittings or construction adhesive. The joints of the slabs are filled with polyurethane foam that does not contain toluene. This waterproofing of the balcony ceiling from the inside provides maximum protection against moisture and cold.

Properly selected materials and high-quality work guarantee the absence of moisture, a long finishing period and the preservation of loggias from destruction.

The condition of the balcony or loggia must be carefully monitored. It is the balcony structures that are most susceptible to negative atmospheric phenomena, moisture and sudden temperature changes. In this case, the balcony room can be used effectively. It is turned into a mini warehouse for storing things, freeing up usable space inside the apartment. Some equip there small room, relaxing on the balcony in the evenings, like in an attic: the air there is always fresh. Of course, only reliable waterproofing will provide truly safe and comfortable conditions on the balcony or terrace.

Many are sure that concrete walls reliably protected from water facing tiles. This is not true - moisture easily penetrates the wall under the cladding.

Take care of waterproofing your balcony in advance, without waiting for cold weather or the onset of rainy season. A well-equipped balcony will serve you for a long time. For example, by carefully insulating it, you can arrange a real winter Garden. It's beautiful, cozy and healthy.

The importance of waterproofing a balcony

Nowadays, most residents of multi-storey buildings have begun to pay more attention to the condition of their balconies. This is quite natural. Insufficient control of balcony insulation from moisture leads to negative consequences:

loss of the original balcony aesthetically pleasing, peeling of panels and decorative trim elements;
corrosion of metal parts, fasteners;
the formation of mold and mildew, accompanied by the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

You must admit that going out onto such a balcony is no longer so pleasant, and sometimes even dangerous.

The result of the destructive effect of moisture on a balcony in the absence of waterproofing can be the complete loss of the structure’s load-bearing functions. Balconies sometimes collapse! Where there is no necessary waterproofing, it becomes dangerous for owners and others!

The process of preparing a balcony or loggia for waterproofing

The first stage is preparation for isolation. Work carefully and carefully.

Carefully and accurately, without violating the integrity, dismantle flooring balcony
Inspect carefully concrete slab. Identify all areas where pieces of concrete have already become unusable, have begun to peel off and crumble.
Remove all loose areas of concrete with a hammer drill.
Use a brush with stiff bristles to clean the concrete from any accumulations of dirt and dust to a solid and clean base.
Carefully get rid of any remaining cement and glue.
Using a grinder, you can slightly widen small cracks to allow the solution of the future screed to penetrate properly into the depths. We smooth out large cracks to a U-shaped groove. All formed grooves must be thoroughly cleaned of debris.
Remove concrete fragments from exposed reinforcement.
Clean the fittings from any rust accumulations. This can be done mechanically, but it is better to use a chemical composition. The metal should become clean.
Coat the fittings with an anti-corrosion compound.
Restore carefully concrete covering: both special compositions and ordinary cement are suitable.
Inspect the balcony roof and identify any problem areas where moisture penetrates.
Clean the roof and partitions from debris and dust, moisten them. Remove all remaining paint and glue.

Only after complete preparation for waterproofing can you begin to cover the balcony or terrace with insulating compounds.

Materials used

During the work you can use the following materials, tools and compositions:

measuring containers;
bucket or basin;
brush with hard synthetic bristles;
perforator;
jackhammer;
composition of "Skrepa M500";
"Penecritus";
"Penetron";
foil polystyrene foam;
sealant;
polyurethane foam (without toluene);
"KT throne";
respirator;
thick rubber gloves;
protective glasses.

Materials can be selected according to the space you are insulating and your personal preferences. KT throne can be coating or penetrating. Penetrating compounds are only suitable for concrete. When processing brick or wooden balcony coating compounds must be used.
Nowadays they also use roll materials based on polyethylene, which are used to cover surfaces. Penofol is in demand.
The balcony floor can be well insulated additionally if you use modern foil insulation. Balcony lintels made of concrete or bricks are perfectly waterproofed by polystyrene foam. Sometimes slabs from mineral wool, but they are not suitable for insulating a balcony, since they are susceptible to moisture condensation.

Estimated prices for materials for waterproofing balconies

Name	Weight, kg	price, rub.
Penecrit	1	220
	5	1200-1650
	10	2407
	25	5750-5770
Penetron	1	250
	5	1350-1720
	10	2703
	25	6520
Skrepa M500	25	1000-1500

Glazing of an open balcony

Of course, to ensure high-quality waterproofing of the balcony you will need to glaze it. Please note that simply installing double-glazed windows is not enough. It is important to properly equip the outer cornice, as well as carefully seal all seams. To do this, you can use polyurethane foam and various sealants. Pay attention to the instructions and keep in mind that your sealant will be exposed to temperature changes.

Waterproofing a balcony with penetrating compounds

Penetrating compounds are suitable for concrete surfaces.

First you need to moisten the concrete;
Apply the first layer of composition (for example, Penetron) to wet concrete using a brush with synthetic bristles;
Wait until the first layer sets a little, but does not have time to dry completely;
Lightly wet the surface and apply a second layer of composition. It is recommended to apply the composition in perpendicular directions;
Monitor the condition of the surfaces for three days. They must be protected from temperature changes and any mechanical impact;

The composition should not peel off or crack.

Cover the surface with film. Lightly wet the surface by gently spraying water.

How to waterproof a balcony using coating compounds

When the surface is brick, polyurethane or stone, the penetrating compound will not work. You need to use a coating mixture.

Moisten the partition, the floor of the balcony;
Apply the first coating layer;
Use the brush in one direction, making sure the layer is even;
The second layer should be applied after five hours. Observe the direction: it must be perpendicular to the first;
Reinforcing mesh is used in places where tile seams pass. The cells should be five millimeters. Embed the mesh in a layer of waterproofing;

Also see step by step video for waterproofing a balcony using mastic:

Coating mixtures form a high-quality elastic coating and reliably eliminate cracks.

Waterproofing the ceiling and roof of the balcony

Be sure to pay attention to waterproofing the balcony roof.

Treat the slab with compounds (penetrating or coating);
Eliminate all cracks and cracks. Use sealant;
Additional insulation made of penofol or expanded polystyrene can be attached;

If the balcony is on the top floor, additional work is required:

the reinforced concrete roof is covered with roofing mastic;
when the roof is tiled or made of metal, mastic is applied to the joints of the materials;
the seams between the panels are sealed at the level of the technical floor.
The roof of the upper floor is successfully complemented by skylights.

Waterproofing of balcony partitions

Partitions are treated in the same way as the floor. Choose which products are right for you: coating or penetrating. The best option for insulation of the partition - foil polystyrene foam. It is simply carefully glued to the partitions.

Carry out all work on waterproofing your balcony carefully and carefully. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them. Then excellent result guaranteed: you will enjoy the comfort of your balcony and be able to use it effectively.

Balcony waterproofing: secrets, effective methods And useful tips , 2.9 out of 5 based on 19 ratings