7 Best Balcony Flooring: Durable, Style, Weatherproof and Comfort
Balcony flooring is a surface material installed on a balcony floor to provide durability, safety, aesthetics, and protection against weather conditions. It serves both functional and decorative purposes, enhancing the balcony’s usability while protecting the underlying structure.
When you select balcony flooring, Aqviz highly recommends you pay attention to the type of flooring, price range, category, available colors, key features, installation type, shape of the flooring, material, and the finishing of the surface. Below are the best balcony floorings with minimal maintenance and water damage with a higher aesthetic view and safety.
7 Types of balcony flooring
- Concrete flooring
- Wood flooring
- Porcelain tiles
- Artificial grass
- Composite decking
- Outdoor carpets
- Rubber flooring
** We have included the price range when we conduct this research. It can vary with your region and the quality of the material.
1. Concrete as Balcony Flooring
Concrete flooring is one of the most durable and cost-effective options for balcony flooring. Concrete flooring offers a strong, long-lasting surface that can be customized for both aesthetics and functionality. Concrete flooring is a composite flooring and it is made from a mix of cement, aggregates, and water. The price range for concrete balcony flooring ranges from $3 to $15 per square foot. It is based on finishing, thickness, reinforcement, and installation. Concrete flooring is available as grey, black, brown, and other custom-stained or polished shades in the balcony.
Key features of concrete flooring include outdoor suitability, UV resistance, water resistance (with sealants), skid resistance (with textured finishes), and high durability. Hence concrete flooring is an excellent choice for balconies exposed to heavy use and weather elements. Concrete flooring is poured on the balcony as solid concrete and reinforced with fiber or rebar to increase strength.
These floorings have natural, grooved, matte, polished, or stamped textures on their surface when it is cast. Concrete balcony floorings have a higher slip resistance and conduct occasional maintenance. Small cracks and damages can leak the water from the pooled balcony. Aqviz we highly recommend you to waterproof the concrete balcony to avoid all the water damage to the structure.
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz, we highly recommend concrete balcony flooring for homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solution. Concrete is naturally strong, but to maximize its lifespan, we advise applying a high-quality waterproof sealant. This prevents water absorption, reduces cracks, and protects against freeze-thaw damage.
Read more about: Ultimate Balcony Construction Guide: Step by Step Guide!
2. Wood as Balcony Flooring
When it comes to wood balcony flooring, plank flooring is the most common choice due to its durability, aesthetic warmth, and natural feel. The price range for wood balcony flooring varies depending on the type of wood and treatment, hence it ranges from $8 to $50 per square foot. Wood flooring falls under the hardwood flooring category, distinct from vinyl, tile, composite, and carpet options. Wood floorings are available in brown, grey, black, white, and other natural wood tones but it depends on the type of wood and finish.
The key features of wood balcony flooring include outdoor suitability, UV resistance (with protection), skid resistance (rough surface), and moderate water resistance. Before installing wood flooring on the balcony, it should be sealed to prevent moisture damage and reduce maintenance.
Wood floorings can be installed on the balcony as click type, floating type adhesive, and traditional fastened methods but it depends on the specific product. The typical shape for wood planks is rectangular. As for material, the flooring is naturally made from solid wood or engineered wood, with some alternatives available in composite for added durability. Wood flooring includes natural, grooved, and matte, offering different levels of texture and slip resistance to suit various outdoor settings such as the balcony.
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz highly recommends wood balcony flooring for homeowners who want a natural, warm, and classic outdoor aesthetic. Wood adds timeless beauty to a balcony but requires proper protection to withstand outdoor conditions on the balcony. To enhance durability, we advise using weather-resistant hardwoods like teak, ipe, or cedar, which naturally resist moisture and insects.
3. Porcelain tile as Balcony flooring
Porcelain tile is one of the best choices for balcony flooring due to its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to harsh weather conditions. It is a tile flooring and it offers a sleek and elegant look that works well for both modern and traditional balcony spaces.
The price range for porcelain balcony tiles varies based on quality and design, typically between $10 to $35 per square foot. Porcelain tiles are available as grey, black, brown, white, and other shades.
Key features of porcelain tiles include outdoor suitability, UV resistance, water resistance, skid resistance and moisture resistance. These features help to withstand the balcony in rain, heat, and cold. The installation type of the porcelain tile is usually attached to the floor using adhesives (thin-set mortar).
In terms of shape, porcelain tiles are commonly available in square and rectangular formats. It helps to make different layout patterns on the balcony floor, more aesthetically. Artificial grass as Balcony flooring
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz, we highly recommend porcelain tile flooring for homeowners who want a stylish, weather-resistant, and long-lasting balcony surface. Porcelain is waterproof, UV-resistant, and highly durable, making it perfect for outdoor use. To enhance performance, we suggest using a non-slip, textured tile to reduce the risk of slipping, especially in rainy areas.
4. Artificial Grass as Balcony flooring
Artificial grass is an excellent choice for balcony flooring. Artificial grass offers a natural, green aesthetic with minimal maintenance to the balcony floors. It falls under the carpet flooring category, as it mimics the look and feel of real grass while providing a soft, cushioned surface.
The price range for artificial grass flooring varies based on pile height, density, and quality. Its price is typically ranging from $3 to $15 per square foot. Artificial grass is available as green, but some variations in darker or lighter shades exist to match different design preferences. The key features of artificial grass include outdoor suitability, UV resistance, water resistance, and skid resistance. Hence artificial grasses are perfect for balconies exposed to sun, rain, or heavy foot traffic areas.
Artificial grass usually comes in a rectangular or square shape, making it easy to install in various balcony layouts. These are made of synthetic fibers like polyethylene or polypropylene. These are highly resistant to weathering. Artificial grass adds natural-looking, grooved, or matte textures to the balcony.
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz highly recommends artificial grass flooring for homeowners who want a soft, natural-looking, and low-maintenance outdoor space. Artificial turf is waterproof, UV-resistant, and easy to clean, making it ideal for balconies. To improve balcony drainage and prevent water buildup, we suggest installing a perforated underlay. This allows water to flow through and prevents mold or mildew growth.
5. Composite Decking as Balcony Flooring
Composite decking is a highly durable and low-maintenance option for balcony flooring. Composite flooring offers the look of natural wood without the upkeep. Composite deckings are made of wood fibers and plastic. It helps to create a long-lasting, weather-resistant, rot-resistant, and insect-resistant surface on the balcony. The price range for composite decking varies $10 to $45 per square foot. But it depends on the brand, quality, and installations.
Composite deckings are available as grey, black, brown, white, and other wood-like shades. It helps to improve the aesthetic appeal of the balcony floor. Key features of composite decking include outdoor suitability, UV resistance, water resistance, and skid resistance. This helps to expose the balcony to varying weather conditions.
The installation type typically includes click-type interlocking systems or floating-type adhesives. Composite decking is usually available in rectangular planks. Composite decking surface texture is available as natural, grooved, and matte. The grooved surfaces enhance slip resistance, especially in wet conditions. With its durability and ease of maintenance, composite decking is a great long-term investment for balcony flooring.
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz highly recommends composite decking for homeowners looking for a wood like appearance with superior durability and low maintenance. Composite decking is water resistant, UV-resistant, and resistant to rotting or warping, making it perfect for outdoor balconies.
6. Outdoor Carpets as Balcony Flooring
Outdoor carpets are a practical and stylish choice for balcony flooring. Outdoor carpets offer comfort underfoot while enhancing the space’s aesthetic appeal on the balcony. The price range for outdoor carpets varies typically ranging from $1 to $10 per square foot. But it depends on the material, pile height, quality, and installation.
Available colors for outdoor carpets on balconies are grey, black, brown, and a variety of other shades and patterns. Key features of outdoor carpets include UV resistance, water resistance, skid resistance, and mold resistance. These help to ensure withstand rain, sun, humidity, and other worst weather conditions. Outdoor carpets are commonly available in rectangular or square shapes. Outdoor carpets are made of polypropylene, polyester, or synthetic fibers. These materials help to make them resistant to fading and moisture absorption when it is outdoor balcony.
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz highly recommends outdoor carpet flooring for homeowners seeking a comfortable, slip-resistant, and budget-friendly balcony solution. Outdoor carpets are mold-resistant, waterproof, and UV-protected, making them great for all-weather use. To prevent moisture buildup, we advise choosing a carpet with a breathable backing that allows proper drainage.
7. Rubber Flooring as Balcony Flooring
Rubber flooring is a durable and slip-resistant option for balcony flooring. It provides an excellent comfort, safety, and weather resistance to the balcony. Rubber flooring is a composite material that is made from synthetic or recycled rubber. The price range for rubber balcony flooring varies based on thickness, quality, and design, typically ranging from $4 to $20 per square foot. Rubber flooring is available as grey, black, brown, and other custom shades
Key features of rubber flooring are outdoor suitability, UV resistance, water resistance, skid resistance, vibration absorption, and noise reduction. Hence rubber floorings are highly recommended for high-traffic or workout spaces on balconies.
Rubber flooring is available in both square and rectangular shapes. Finishing options of the rubber flooring include natural, grooved, or matte textures, with grooved surfaces enhancing drainage and slip resistance, especially in wet conditions.
Aqviz Recommendation
Aqviz highly recommends rubber flooring for homeowners who prioritize safety, comfort, and impact resistance. Rubber is waterproof, skid-resistant, and highly durable, making it ideal for families with kids or active outdoor spaces. For maximum performance, we suggest using UV-resistant rubber tiles to prevent fading and degradation from sun exposure.
What is the Cheapest Balcony Flooring?
Outdoor carpets are the most budget-friendly option, costing between $1 to $10 per square foot. They provide comfort and slip resistance but may not be as durable as other options in extreme weather conditions.
What are the Balcony Water Damage Signs?
Some common water damage signs on a balcony include cracks in the flooring, mold or mildew growth, peeling paint, discoloration, soft or warped surfaces, and water stains. If ignored, these issues can worsen and cause structural damage.
Read our expert guide about: What are the 7 Signs of Poor Balcony Waterproofing
Is the Balcony Flooring Waterproofing the Balcony?
No, balcony flooring alone does not provide full waterproofing. Some materials are water-resistant, but to truly waterproof a balcony, you need sealants, drainage systems, and waterproof membranes beneath the flooring to prevent water infiltration and structural damage.
What Balcony Flooring is Good for Gardening?
Artificial grass is the best choice for gardening lovers. It mimics the feel of real grass, provides a soft surface, and is easy to clean. Water drains through it, preventing pooling. Rubber flooring is another good option because it’s easy to wash and provides cushioning for standing long hours while gardening.
Which Balcony Flooring needs Waterproofing?
Concrete and wood flooring require waterproofing to prevent long-term damage. Concrete can absorb water, leading to cracks and structural issues, while wood is prone to warping, rotting, and mold growth if not sealed properly. Regular maintenance and sealing are necessary to prolong the waterproofing lifespan.
What Balcony Flooring does not need Waterproofing?
All balcony flooring needs waterproofing. Because none of the material is waterproof it can’t cover all over the surface completely. Hence balcony floor should be waterproof before installing flooring. Even you use waterproof balcony flooring, you should waterproof the floor.
Porcelain tiles, composite decking, rubber flooring, and artificial grass are naturally water-resistant. Porcelain tiles and composite decking repel water, making them ideal for wet conditions. Rubber flooring has a non-porous surface, and artificial grass drains well if installed with proper underlayment.
