Balcony Waterproofing Lifespan: Factors, Materials & When to Repair

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

The lifespan of the balcony waterproofing membrane depends on the material quality, weather conditions, workmanship, structural movements, repair, and maintenance. We have noted that a balcony waterproofing membrane can withstand an average of 10-15 years if it is properly maintained from our experience.

But some membranes can withstand less than 5 years due to poor workmanship. Aqviz highly recommends you to inspect your waterproofing membrane at least once a year.  If your balcony waterproofing is damaged, you should redo it. So we will support you to fix your balcony waterproofing problem.

How Long Does Balcony Waterproofing Last?

We have noted that a balcony waterproofing membrane can withstand an average of 10-15 years if it is properly maintained from our experience. By considering membrane vice, they will last long like this. Cementitious waterproofing can last 5-10 years, PU and acrylic 10 to 15 years, PVC and bituminous 15 to 25 years, and epoxy can last 10-20 years when these are maintained properly.

1. Cementitious waterproofing can last 5 to 10 years on the balcony floor. It’s easy to apply on the balcony floor but not very flexible, so cracks can develop over time even with minor balcony structural movement.
2. Liquid membranes like polyurethane or acrylic can last 10 to 15 years if it is applied on the balcony floor correctly. These offer good flexibility and UV resistance to the balcony floor.
3. PVC or bituminous membranes can last 15 to 25 years on the balcony floor. But it depends on exposure to UV light, sunlight, extreme weather conditions, and maintenance. They’re highly durable but require proper installation.
4. Epoxy or polyurea coatings can last 10 to 20 years on the balcony floor. They’re strong and chemical-resistant balcony waterproofings but may degrade under direct UV exposure.

Before you start balcony waterproofing, what should you know about balcony waterproofing it? What waterproof membrane should you use and how to waterproof a balcony? We can guide you from start to finish. So contact our experts right now.

What Factors Affect Balcony Waterproofing Lifespan?

When a balcony is waterproof, it will remain for a certain period because it is not designed to withstand whole life. According to our investigations, we have found that these factors directly affect the lifespan of the balcony waterproofing layer.

1. Quality of the waterproofing material: Higher quality balcony waterproofing material will last longer than poor quality materials. A poor waterproofing system may develop leaks and damage within a few years. When you use high quality membranes or coating it can provide a long-lasting protection.
2. Exposure the waterproofing material to extreme weather conditions: When a waterproofing membrane is exposed to extreme weather conditions like rain, sun, and temperature changes, it can break down the waterproofing materials.
3. Poor waterproofing installations on the balcony: When a balcony waterproofing is poorly and incorrectly installed on the balcony floor, with gaps and weak spots, it may cause the membrane to fail over time. Aqviz, we install waterproofing membranes on balconies properly. Our expert team has more than 10 years of experience in this field. 
4. Balcony structural movement: When the balcony structure expands and contracts due to temperature changes and settling it can crack the waterproofing system on the balcony. Hence you should always install a higher flexible waterproofing membrane there.
5. Regular maintenance the balcony floor: When you do regular maintenance, and clean the balcony floor, chemicals can damage the waterproofing membrane over time. In order to increase the balcony lifespan, you should use proper cleaning agents and methods.

How Often Should Balcony Waterproofing be Inspected?

You should inspect balcony waterproofing at least once a year and after extreme weather conditions. You should check areas like flooring, drainage points, expansion joints, wall connections, and railing bases for cracks, peeling, or water pooling on the balcony floor.

When to Redo Balcony Waterproofing?

Redo balcony waterproofing every 10 to 15 years. But it depends on the material used for the balcony. Also when you see these signs such as air leaks, cracks in the coating, peeling or bubbling membrane, mold growth, and damp spots on walls or ceilings below the balcony, it needs to repair the waterproofing membrane.

As a PRO TIP: You can install a waterproofing balcony flooring to extend this lifespan. As well as you can also install epoxy flooring on the top of the balcony surface without removing the top materials like tiles. Both will increase the lifespan of the balcony waterproofing layer.

Can Waterproof Balcony Flooring Increase the Balcony’s Lifespan?

Yes, waterproof balcony flooring can significantly increase the balcony’s lifespan. A proper waterproofing system prevents water from seeping into the structure, which helps avoid issues like concrete deterioration, rusted reinforcement, mold growth, and tile damage. By keeping moisture out by the waterproofing flooring, waterproofing reduces wear and tear caused by freeze-thaw cycles, UV exposure, and heavy foot traffic. It also enhances the durability of tiles or coatings, preventing cracks and loose flooring.

Can Balcony Waterproofing be Repaired?

Yes, balcony waterproofing can be repaired, but the method depends on the severity of the damage.

For minor cracks or peeling: Use a fresh coat of liquid waterproofing or sealant to restore protection.

1. For localized leaks: Applying a waterproof patch or membrane over the affected area can help.
2. For major damage: If the waterproofing layer is severely worn out, it’s best to remove the old system and apply a new waterproofing layer to ensure long-term durability.