Whether you live in a high-rise, townhome, or condo, your balcony is a space for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment, but the balcony is also fully exposed to the elements. Exposed substrates require ongoing maintenance and protection and a good coating system can help you protect the balcony from deterioration. Protecting your balcony and deck surface is crucial for long-term durability. In this blog post, we’ll explore three coating systems, each offering a different level of performance to help you better protect your balcony or deck long term. All three of these deck coating systems are best applied by certified building renewal specialists with the product experience and knowledge to do the project right. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each coating option and take a look at their basic components.
Good: Floor Enamel by Dulux PPG
Dulux PPG urethane enamel is formulated to meet the performance requirements of both residential and commercial markets. It provides excellent adhesion and durability to multiple surfaces, is fast-drying and scuff resistant. This product is well suited for properly prepared new or previously painted horizontal concrete decks and balconies.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Dulux Floor Enamel is composed of a water-based or oil-based paint with added enamel for durability and is an affordable option for balconies and decks,
- Ease of Application: It can be applied relatively easily, making it suitable for DIY projects or smaller balcony surfaces.
- Enhanced Appearance: It provides a fresh and clean look, enhancing the appearance of your balcony or deck.
Cons:
- Limited Durability: Dulux Floor Enamel may not withstand heavy foot traffic, harsh weather conditions, or prolonged exposure to UV rays as effectively as higher-grade options.
- Maintenance Required: It will require more frequent reapplication, roughly every two years to maintain its protective qualities.
Better: Deckote by Consolidated Coatings
Deckote was designed as a heavy-duty, semi-industrial coating system for horizontal surfaces. This water-based, 100% acrylic elastomeric coating, has been successfully used on millions of square feet of balconies, decks, and patios. This high solids/ high film deck coating system can last up to ten years when properly maintained. The tough film built when Deckote is applied allows water vapor to vent through while at the same time providing a water-resistant coating. This permeability helps prevent blistering and increase adhesion.
Pros:
- Enhanced Durability: Deckote is formulated with more robust materials than basic enamels. The product includes elastomeric compounds, acrylics, and latex, offering great durability and weather resistance.
- Waterproofing: Deckote incorporates waterproofing additives, helping to protect your balcony from water ingress and potential damage.
- Longer Lifespan: Deckote has a longer lifespan than typical floor enamels and withstands moderate foot traffic and harsh weather conditions.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: It is moderately more expensive than basic floor enamels due to its enhanced materials and waterproofing properties.
- Professional Application: While it can be applied by homeowners, professional application is recommended for optimal results, especially when waterproofing is crucial as specific preparation and application methods are required.
Best: Masterseal 1500 Membrane by SIKA
This polyurethane waterproofing, traffic, and pedestrian-bearing membrane system features advanced materials like polyurethane and epoxy resins that function as a membrane to provide superior waterproofing and protection. With Masterseals 1500, you get not only top-tier protection but also the benefits of a seamless waterproof membrane for long-lasting durability. These membrane systems come in both primer and primerless systems and include a base and top coat.
Pros:
- Superior Protection: Masterseals 1500 is a high-performance membrane system composed of advanced materials. It offers the highest level of protection, with excellent resistance to UV rays, harsh weather, and heavy foot traffic.
- Membrane System: Unlike traditional coatings, Masterseals 1500 is a membrane system. It forms a seamless, waterproof membrane over your balcony’s surface, providing unparalleled protection against water infiltration and damage.
- Longevity: With proper maintenance, it can offer an extended service life, in some cases well past ten years, reducing the need for frequent recoating.
Cons:
- Highest Cost: Masterseals 1500 is the premium choice and comes with a higher price tag due to its superior materials, performance and application requirements
- Professional Installation: Professional and certified installation is recommended, adding to the overall cost. Typically, existing paint and coating systems need to be removed via grinder and the underlying substrate needs to be thoroughly prepared using various methods prior to application of Masterseal 1500.
Choosing the Right Coating System for Your Next Project
Selecting the right coating system for your exposed balcony depends on your budget, desired level of protection, and long-term expectations. Consider your balcony’s specific requirements and consult with a professional coatings applicator to ensure your choice aligns with your balconies or deck’s unique characteristics and your long-term maintenance goals.
WCP is a top-rated Vancouver and Surrey building restoration company, dedicated to assisting you in the specification, planning and installation of the ideal coating system for your needs.
WCP specializes in the restoration and renewal of concrete balconies and decks for high rises throughout Vancouver, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver and Burnaby in British Columbia. If you are looking for an expert to help with your next membrane or balcony restoration project connect with us at [email protected] or 604.420.5552.
