6 Common Reasons for Balcony Paint Peeling and How to Fix It

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Balcony paint peeling is deterioration and flaking off of paint from the surface of a balcony due to factors such as moisture exposure, poor surface preparation, extreme weather conditions, or the use of low-quality paint. Prolonged paint peeling can lead to moisture damage, mold growth, and even structural deterioration. 

Aqviz team has dealt with countless cases of balcony paint peeling. We found that more than 90% comes from water related issues and the rest 10% is from paint chemistry. So we will guide you to fix this easily, and how to avoid this in the future. 

Let’s go over the six biggest reasons we’ve seen for paint peeling on balconies.

What is the Definition of Balcony Paint Peeling?

The definition of balcony paint peeling is deterioration and flaking off of paint from the surface of a balcony due to factors such as moisture exposure, moisture trapping, poor surface preparation, extreme weather conditions, or the use of low-quality paint. Balcony paint peeling can indicate underlying problems like water infiltration, lack of proper sealing, or aging materials. It can cause many structural damages if it is not fixed properly.

What are the 6 Reasons for Balcony Paint Peeling?

These are the 6 reasons for the paint peeling in the balcony.

1. Moisture intrusion 

Moisture intrusion is the major reason for the balcony paint peeling. Balconies are constantly exposed to rain, humidity, and even routine cleaning. If the surface isn’t properly sealed, that moisture gets trapped, weakening the bond between the paint and the surface. Before you observe it, the paint starts blistering and flaking off.

2. Moisture trapping in cracks and damages

Moisture can trap in the cracks and damage in the balcony floor if it is not properly crack seal or waterproofed. Over time, that moisture pushes against the paint from the inside, causing bubbles, blisters, and peeling. After crack sealing and balcony waterproofing, this can be fixed permanently.

3. Poor surface preparation

Balcony paint can be peeled if the surface isn’t properly cleaned, primed, and dried before painting. As a result of this, the paint won’t stick well. Dust, dirt, and old paint residues create a weak foundation for the paints. Over time, with the effect of moisture, when it gets wet, the paint starts peeling. We always advise our clients to make a proper foundation for the paints, especially on the balcony.

4. Extreme weather conditions

When the balcony surface is constantly exposed to sunlight, it can become faded, cracked, or brittle due to UV light. This can 

break down the paint, making it lose flexibility and start peeling over time. We have noticed that extreme temperatures cause to paint expand in the summers and freezing winters cause the surface to contract the paint layer. This will weaken the paint layer over time.

5. Using the wrong paint type

We have seen that a lot of people make the mistake of using indoor paint or low-quality exterior paint on balconies, which causes the paint to fail over and over. Balconies need durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant coatings, otherwise, the paint will not last more than a couple of seasons. We always recommend high-quality acrylic or elastomeric coatings that are made to handle harsh outdoor conditions in the balconies.

How to Fix Balcony Paint Peeling?

As waterproofing experts, we highly recommend you follow the below step by step guide to fix the balcony paint peeling.

Step 1: Identify the reasons for the balcony paint peeling.

Before jumping into repairs, you should identify the reason for the paint peeling in the balcony. We have included the 5 reasons above. You can refer to them before starting to fix this.

1. Check for cracks, damp spots, or trapped moisture in the balcony floor, and walls for water seepage or leaking.
2. Check the paint foundation for poor surface preparation 
3. Look for faded, brittle, or cracking paint, and for sun damage in the balcony walls
4. Check the bonding nature of the paint and whether it is the wrong paint type 

Once you know what caused the problem, you can fix it at the source instead of just covering it up.

Pro Tip: If the paint is bubbling, it usually means moisture is trapped underneath. Let the area dry out completely before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Remove the peeling paint completely

You should remove the old paint from the balcony surface completely

1. Use a wire brush to scrape the old paint on the balcony walls
2. Use a pressure washer to deep clean the surface.

Step 3: Repair any surface damage

Once the old paint is removed, inspect the balcony surface for cracks, holes, or uneven patches.

1. Use a cement-based patching compound or an exterior-grade filler for small cracks in the balcony floor and walls.
2. Apply a flexible sealant or a polyurethane-based waterproofing compound to prevent water intrusion to the balcony surface
3. If moisture is trapped in the balcony paint layer, wait for the surface to dry completely before moving forward.

The Aqviz team highly recommends you to install balcony waterproofing membranes before painting if the balcony has serious water seepage issues

Step 4: Apply primer before applying paint on the balcony walls

Apply primer on the balcony surface before painting it. It helps the paint bond better and protects against future peeling.

1. Use a masonry bonding primer for masonry balconies
2. Use a rust-inhibiting metal primer for metal railings or surfaces in the balcony
3. Use a waterproof acrylic primer for high-moisture balconies.

Let the primer dry for at least 24 hours before painting for the best adhesion.

Step 5: Choose the right paint for the balcony

You should choose the right paint for your balcony. Paint should be compatible with balcony materials, environmental conditions, weather conditions, physical impacts, user compatibility, and water damages.

We recommend these 3 types of paint for your balcony.

1. Acrylic or elastomeric paint: Highly recommended for flexible (paint surface), waterproof, and UV-resistant balcony surfaces.
2. Exterior grade paint: Highly recommended for extreme rain, sun, and temperature change balconies.
3. Anti mold & antialgae additives: Highly recommend for higher moisture areas. That can prevent mold growth in damp areas.

You should not use glossy paint for floors. They can be slippery when wet. You should use textured or matte finish paints for better grip.

Step 6: Apply paint on balcony surfaces properly

After choosing the paint, you should apply to the balcony surface properly. You should paint the balcony surface properly as follows.

1. Use a roller or brush for even application.
2. Apply at least two coats, allowing the first coat to dry completely before adding the second.
3. Paint during dry weather, avoiding extreme heat or humidity.

We apply a UV protective clear coat on the top of the paint to extend the balcony paint life. We have got amazing results from our clients. So we recommend you to apply that and share your thoughts with us.