Trafficable waterproofing membranes for balconies and terraces
A trafficable membrane is a waterproof coating you can walk on. It goes over an existing tiled or concrete surface and becomes the new floor finish. When a balcony or rooftop terrace needs more than a regrout and seal, it's often the next step before a full strip-out. We apply polyurethane and liquid trafficable membranes across Sydney.
When a trafficable membrane suits
- Balcony tiles that are worn, crazed or cracked on the surface but still firmly stuck down
- Concrete balconies with no tiles
- Rooftop terraces and roof decks people walk on
- Leaks that keep coming back after regrouting
If many tiles are loose or the balcony falls towards the house, the surface has to be fixed first. We'll tell you at the inspection.
Polyurethane and liquid waterproofing membranes
Both go on as a liquid, so they form one continuous skin with no seams to fail. Polyurethane membranes stay flexible and cope well with building movement and temperature changes. We choose the system to suit the surface, the foot traffic and the sun it gets, and we explain the choice in your quote.
How it compares with other repairs
| Repair | Tiles | When it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Regrout and seal | Kept and visible | Sound tiles with failed joints |
| Trafficable membrane | Kept but covered | Worn tiles or bare concrete |
| Strip-out and new membrane | Removed | Loose tiles, a failed bed or wrong falls |
Compare the three options for a leaking balcony in more detail.
Standards
Our balcony membrane work is carried out in line with AS 4654.2, the Australian Standard for external above-ground waterproofing.
How it's applied
- Inspect the surface, falls, drainage and edges.
- Clean and prepare the existing tiles or concrete.
- Detail the joints at walls, door sills, outlets and balustrade posts.
- Apply the membrane in coats to the thickness the system needs.
- Apply the finish coat, then let it cure before use.
Trafficable membrane questions
Will a trafficable membrane change how my balcony looks?
Yes. The tiles are covered by a smooth, coloured coating. We'll talk you through the finish before you decide.
Is it suitable for strata balconies?
Often, yes. The committee may need to approve a change of finish. See how we work with strata managers.
Do you do car parks and podiums?
No. We work on balconies, terraces and roof decks.
Book a free membrane inspection
Call or SMS 0412 000 893, seven days a week.