The short answer
The cost of waterproofing a balcony depends on its size, its condition, whether there is tile to remove, the repairs to the concrete and the edges, the system and the access. Because those variables change so much from one balcony to another, we do not publish a single price for waterproofing: we inspect the balcony and give you a written estimate. What follows is what moves that number, so you can read any quote with confidence.
What moves the price
- Size and shape. Square footage matters, and so do corners, steps and edges, which take detail work.
- What is on top. Bare concrete, old coatings or tile. Loose tile or tile with water under it usually has to come off.
- Concrete repairs. Cracks, spalling and damaged edges, especially around railing posts, where water often gets in.
- Drainage. A balcony that holds water may need the slope or the drains corrected.
- The system. A liquid-applied membrane with a traffic coating and a slip-resistant finish is the usual choice; the products and layers change the cost.
- Access and building rules. In condo buildings, access, working hours, protection of the unit below and association approvals add planning.
What a complete job includes
- Inspection to find where water gets in.
- Mechanical preparation and removal of damaged coatings.
- Repair of cracks, joints and holes.
- Primer where needed.
- The waterproofing membrane.
- A protective coating and a slip-resistant finish.
We explain the membranes in balcony waterproofing membranes.
Why waiting costs more
Water that gets through a balcony can reach the steel inside the slab. The steel rusts, expands and cracks the concrete from within. The longer that goes on, the more the repair costs before any waterproofing can go on.
How to compare quotes
Check that each quote says how the surface will be prepared, which repairs are included, which system and how many layers, how the edges, drains and railing posts will be detailed, what the finish is and what the warranty covers. Ours is available according to the installed system and the terms set in the contract.
Next step
Send us photos of the balcony, the edges and any stains on the ceiling below. See our waterproofing page.
