Keeping your balcony in good condition can be difficult if you’re not on top of it regularly. This is because a balcony is exposed to the elements and dust, dirt and other debris that is easily accumulated can be a pain to clean up. Your balcony requires regular attention to extend its service life and preserve its overall appearance.
Here are some issues your balcony might face and some helpful tips that will help you address them.
Sun exposure
Being outside all the time means your balcony gets blasted by the sun all day. A timber deck balcony is susceptible to the harsh sun. This can be especially damaging, breaking down wood cells and causing the timber to dry out and crack. If your wooden balcony’s colour appears to be fading, it may be time to recoat it or have it professionally redone to preserve its look.
To keep the timber looking nice and fresh, clean your balcony regularly. The balustrades and rails in particular are often overlooked. Pay extra attention to signs of wear and if they need a fresh coat of paint. Regularly applying decking oil on the timber will help maintain your balcony’s sheen and durability.
Rain exposure
Unsurprisingly, the rain can cause massive long term damage to your balcony, especially if you have water pooling anywhere. A balcony should be designed to take the water away efficiently from the surface and having adequate drainage is critical. For balconies with metal elements like balustrades and rails, this can lead to rusting. For balconies with wood or plaster, dampness and moisture issues can arise.
After a heavy rain, it’s a great time to check the drainage on your balcony. Sweep off the debris which might have landed on it, such as stray branches and leaves, especially around furniture and plant life. Wipe the exterior surfaces and clear off dirt, and then mop the floor with a scrub brush. Cleaning the balcony first makes inspecting it for issues much easier. If your balcony has been through some tough weather conditions, it might need to be inspected by a handyman for repairs. At Clever Dick we can do that for you.
Plants
Plants give life to your balcony, making the environment nicer and healthier. However, improper plant care can damage your balcony too. For instance, fertiliser from potted plants can overflow if you accidentally water too much.
So if you’re keeping potted plants on your balcony, make sure to avoid overwatering. But most importantly, ensure that your pots are elevated slightly to ensure airflow and prevent water from pooling.
Heavy furniture
As much as outdoor furniture livens up your balcony space, be mindful of the weight that is placed on the balcony.Additionally, decorative pots can weigh hundreds of kilos. The weight may strain your balcony’s floor and cause damage. An alternative to this is to choose furniture made of lighter materials and be conscious of the number of pieces you have set up in your space.
Not sure about your balcony?
Clever Dick is here for you! We are a trusted provider of full-range handyman services in Melbourne, including carpentry, complete home maintenance and leaking balcony repairs. Whether you need a general handyman for a few tasks around the house or skilled and licensed trades for a complete renovation, we have the right solution for the job.
Get a quote here or call us today on 0448 896 578 for more info!