Balcony Waterproofing - Brunswick East
Real results from commercial and residential buildings across Melbourne.
Problem
This balcony project on Moreland Road, Brunswick East, had a failing waterproofing system which was causing internal and external water damage. The owners had initially noticed cracking tiles and water leaking through to the ceiling below, with visible watermarks indicating ongoing moisture ingress. While these symptoms suggested a membrane issue, the true extent of the damage became evident once demolition commenced.
During further inspection, we identified a significant concealed defect: the cement sheet flooring had become compromised and was no longer structurally suitable. This meant the issue extended beyond waterproofing alone and required structural rectification before a compliant waterproofing system could be installed.
Symptoms identified
- Cracking and movement evident through balcony tiles
- Water leaking into the ceiling below
- Visible internal watermarks indicating moisture ingress
- Deteriorated cement sheet flooring
Urgency factors
- Immediate risk of further water damage to ceiling and surrounding internal finishes
- Potential for continued deterioration of the balcony substrate and structural elements
- Increased risk of larger remediation costs if left unresolved
- Negative impact on the property’s appearance and long-term value due to ongoing water damage
Solution
It became clear that the existing balcony system had reached a point where isolated repairs would not provide a reliable long-term outcome. The compromised flooring substrate and failed waterproofing system required a complete remediation approach to ensure compliance and long-term durability.
Recommended solution:
A complete strip-out of the existing balcony system to expose and assess the structural substrate. Removal and replacement of deteriorated materials, and installation of a fully compliant waterproofing system, including installation of Demtech Balcony Edge Trim to prevent staining on the building and protect the clean finish.
Materials and methods
Primer: Gripset OP primer
Primary membrane: Gripset BRW PFN sheet membrane
Sheet overlaps and detailing: Gripset 38FC liquid membrane
Bond breaker: Gripset Elastoproof Joint Band
Edge detailing: Demtech Balcony Edge Trim installed along exposed balcony edges
Floor replacement: Hardie Secura Flooring installed to replace damaged sheeting
Finishing: Tiles supplied by Wall Boulevard – Tiles of Tomorrow
Grouting: Mapei Ultracolor Plus grout
Compliance: Installed in accordance with AS 4654.1:2012 and AS 4654.2:2012 waterproofing standards
Challenges Overcome
Hidden Defects: It became evident that the cement sheet flooring had deteriorated and required complete replacement before waterproofing could proceed. Identifying and rectifying this issue early ensured the long-term integrity of the balcony system.
Multi-trade coordination: This project required the assistance of Tyler and his team at Marsden Carpentry, and Trevor and his team at Sharp Tiling. We coordinated to ensure workflow efficiency throughout the project.
Results
The Brunswick East balcony has now been fully restored with a compliant waterproofing system designed for long-term performance. The structural substrate has been renewed, the waterproofing system fully integrated, and the finished tiled surface provides both functional protection and an updated appearance.
The drainage system now performs as intended, as proven by the water tests we conducted to ensure integrity. The client was highly satisfied with the final result and the peace of mind that came with the remediation.
Long-term benefits
- Complete elimination of water ingress into internal areas below
- Improved appearance and function of the outdoor area
- Increased long-term durability and property value
Additional value delivered
As part of our commitment to long-term performance, warranty and compliance certifications were provided, and follow-up inspections were scheduled to ensure ongoing confidence in the waterproofing system.
Service: Detection of water ingress and compromised concrete sheeting, removal, replacement, restoration.
Application: Gripset OP primer, Gripset BRW PFN sheet membrane.
Solution: Complete waterproofing of 17m² balcony area, leak detection, removal of compromised membrane and replacement, tiling, carpentry.
Time to complete: 4 weeks.
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