6 Types of Waterproof Balcony Flooring with Features, Pros and Cons

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Waterproof balcony floorings are materials specifically designed to protect outdoor balcony surfaces from water penetration, preventing leaks and water damage. These floorings form a durable, impermeable layer that prevents moisture from seeping into the structure beneath, which can lead to issues like mold, rotting, and deterioration.

Different types of waterproof balcony floorings are available among them Aqviz experts have selected 6 best waterproof balcony floorings that you can install into your balcony. Different features of these floorings help to install it in different balcony floors. Here we mainly focus on the main features you should consider when you select it.

6 Types of waterproof balcony floorings

Epoxy as waterproof balcony flooring
Polyurethane as waterproof balcony flooring
Rubberized as waterproof balcony flooring
PVC as waterproof balcony flooring
Fiberglass flooring as waterproof balcony flooring
Vinyl flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

1. Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy is one of the best waterproof balcony floorings. Epoxy is a resin-based surface coating. It consists of resin and a hardener. When they mix they form a hard, waterproof, fully sealed, slip-resistant, UV-resistant, nontoxic, impermeable, and higher aesthetic appeal layer. As well as epoxy bonds tightly with the balcony substrate materials such as concrete, wood, and metal, etc. Hence epoxy is used as a waterproof balcony flooring.

Due to its liquidity, it can be used for balcony waterproofing even without removing the tile layer. Epoxy flooring is easy to maintain and clean using soap and water. It will cost $4–$12 per square foot. Hard epoxy surface is smooth, hence it can slip with moisture. To prevent this additives should be added before installing on the balcony floor.

Pros of epoxy as waterproof flooring in a balcony

Epoxy forms a seamless waterproof protection on the balcony floor
Epoxy is a long-lasting and highly durable waterproof flooring
Epoxy flooring adds highly customizable aesthetic appeal to the balcony
Epoxy flooring is resistant to stains, chemicals, and mold

Cons of epoxy as waterproof flooring in the balcony

Epoxy flooring can become slippery when wet without additives
Epoxy can degrade due to UV exposure
Epoxy requires a professional application for the best result

2. Polyurethane (PU) coating

Polyurethane (PU) coating is a liquid applied, high-performance waterproof balcony flooring. It consists of synthetic polymer resins that cure to form a seamless, elastic, UV-resistant, and durable protective layer on the balcony floor. PU bonds well with balcony substrate materials such as concrete, wood, and metal, making it an excellent choice for waterproof balcony flooring.

PU coatings are highly flexible, allowing them to accommodate structural movements and minor cracks without compromising waterproofing. We highly recommend to our clients PU waterproofing is a real solution for minor moving balconies.

Polyurethane flooring is easy to maintain and clean using mild soap and water. The cost ranges between $5–$15 per square foot. But it depends on thickness and UV-resistant additives. PU coatings can become slippery when wet, so anti-slip additives should be incorporated for better traction on the balcony floor.

Pros of polyurethane coating as waterproof balcony flooring

Forms a seamless, elastic waterproof barrier on the balcony floor
Highly recommend balconies with structural movements.
UV-resistant and prevents surface degradation
Bonds well with different balcony substrate materials

Cons of polyurethane coating as waterproof balcony flooring

The balcony floor can become slippery when wet without additives
Installing requires a professional application for the best results on the balcony
Can develop surface wear in high-traffic balcony areas without a protective topcoat

3. Rubberized Flooring

Rubberized flooring is a flexible, water-resistant surface made from synthetic or recycled rubber materials. It creates a cushioned, seamless, and slip-resistant layer that effectively prevents water penetration to the balcony floor. Due to its elasticity, rubberized flooring adapts well to structural movements and temperature changes, making it ideal for outdoor balcony use.

Rubber flooring bonds securely with concrete, wood, and metal substrates, ensuring long-lasting waterproof protection to the balconies. It is UV-resistant, reducing degradation from sun exposure. Additionally, it provides excellent shock absorption and a comfortable underfoot feel.

Rubberized flooring is low-maintenance and can be cleaned with mild soap and water. The cost ranges from $6–$15 per square foot, depending on material quality and installation complexity. While rubberized flooring offers superior slip resistance, prolonged UV exposure may cause slight discoloration, requiring occasional balcony surface treatment.

Pros of rubberized flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

Forms a seamless, waterproof protective layer on the balcony
Highly slip-resistant, even the balcony is getting wet
Make a shock-absorbing and comfortable underfoot in the balcony
UV-resistant and durable in outdoor conditions
Flexible, accommodating structural movements

Cons of rubberized flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

Can fade or discolor over time due to UV exposure in the balcony
May require adhesives for secure installation
Higher initial cost compared to standard waterproof coatings

4. PVC Flooring

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) flooring sheets are synthetic, flexible, and highly water-resistant materials designed for seamless waterproof balcony flooring. These sheets create an impermeable layer that blocks moisture penetration, making them an effective solution for balconies exposed to rain and humidity.

PVC sheets are lightweight yet durable and bond well with various balcony substrates, including concrete, wood, and metal. They offer excellent slip resistance, UV protection, and resistance to mold and mildew. Additionally, PVC sheets come in various colors and textures, enhancing the balcony’s aesthetic appeal.

PVC flooring sheets are easy to clean with mild soap and water. The cost ranges from $2–$8 per square foot, depending on thickness, design, and installation complexity. While they are highly water resistant, proper sealing at the edges and seams is necessary to prevent moisture infiltration.

Pros of PVC flooring sheets as waterproof balcony flooring

Forms a fully waterproof and impermeable barrier on the balcony floor
Slip-resistant and safe for balconies
UV-resistant and durable in harsh weather conditions
Available in various colors and textures for aesthetic customization
Low-maintenance and easy to clean

Cons of PVC flooring sheets as waterproof balcony flooring

Seams and edges must be properly sealed to prevent water ingress to the balcony floor
Can expand or contract with temperature changes in the balcony
Professional installation is recommended for the best results.

5. Fiberglass Flooring

Fiberglass flooring is a reinforced composite material made from glass fibers and resin, creating a strong, waterproof, and highly durable surface on the balcony. It forms a seamless, impermeable layer that effectively protects balconies from water infiltration, making it an excellent waterproofing solution.

Fiberglass flooring bonds well with concrete, wood, and metal balcony materials, ensuring a long-lasting protective coating. It is UV-resistant, slip-resistant, and can withstand heavy foot traffic without cracking or degrading. Additionally, fiberglass can be customized with different colors and textures to enhance the balcony’s aesthetic appeal.

Fiberglass flooring requires minimal maintenance and can be cleaned with soap and water. The cost ranges from $7–$20 per square foot, depending on thickness, finish, and professional installation. Although fiberglass is highly durable, it requires skilled application to achieve a proper waterproof seal.

Pros of fiberglass flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

Creates a seamless and fully waterproof barrier on the balcony floor
Highly durable and resistant to cracks and wear
UV-resistant, preventing fading or degradation on the balcony floor
Slip-resistant for added safety
Customizable colors and finishes for aesthetic appeal

Cons of fiberglass flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

Requires professional installation for the best results
Can become brittle over time if not properly maintained
Higher initial cost compared to some other waterproofing options

6. Vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic, water-resistant material made from multiple layers of PVC and fiberglass reinforcement. It creates a seamless, impermeable surface that effectively prevents moisture penetration, making it a practical choice for waterproof balcony flooring.

Vinyl flooring adheres well to concrete, wood, and other balcony substrates, ensuring long-lasting waterproof protection. It is slip-resistant, UV-resistant, and available in various designs, including wood, stone, and tile textures, enhancing the balcony’s aesthetic appeal.

Vinyl flooring is easy to maintain and can be cleaned with mild soap and water. The cost ranges from $3–$10 per square foot, depending on quality, thickness, and installation method. While vinyl is highly water-resistant, prolonged exposure to extreme heat and direct sunlight may cause slight expansion or fading over time.

Pros of Vinyl flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

Forms a seamless, water-resistant barrier
Slip-resistant for improved safety
UV-resistant and durable for outdoor conditions
Available in various colors and textures for aesthetic appeal
Easy to clean and maintain

Cons of Vinyl flooring as waterproof balcony flooring

Can expand or warp under prolonged exposure to extreme heat
Requires proper edge sealing to prevent water infiltration
May need professional installation for a perfect finish

Should you Waterproof the Balcony When Using Waterproof Flooring?

Yes, even when using a waterproof flooring material for your balcony, additional waterproofing is necessary to ensure long-term protection and prevent water infiltration. waterproof balcony floorings like epoxy, polyurethane, rubberized flooring, PVC, fiberglass, and vinyl are designed to provide a waterproof surface. These do not protect the underlying structure such as concrete or wood.

Aqviz highly recommends you to install a balcony waterproofing membrane before installing any type of flooring. It helps to increase the balcony’s lifespan and reduce the problems over time.