Balconies and walkways and the need for long-term protection

Balconies and walkways endure constant exposure to fluctuating temperatures, rain, snow and UV radiation. This makes them susceptible to expansion and contraction, causing cracks that allow water ingress. Over time, trapped moisture can lead to the deterioration of the building materials, creating a list of issues that can affect the durability of these structures and pose safety risks for residents.
When water penetrates through cracks and reaches the reinforcement steel within concrete structures, it leads to corrosion. This process weakens the structural integrity of the balcony or walkway, potentially leading to costly repairs or even partial collapse in severe cases. Moisture ingress can also make balconies and walkways slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Ensuring that these areas are properly waterproofed prevents the formation of mould, mildew and algae.
Furthermore, effective waterproofing protects against freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause severe damage. Water trapped in cracks freezes and expands, creating larger gaps that compromise the surface. 
Liquid-applied waterproofing
Traditionally, waterproofing has been applied using various materials such as bituminous membranes, sheet membranes, or torch-on systems. While these methods are effective, liquid-applied waterproofing solutions like Proteus Pro-BW® Plus offer several key advantages that make them the preferred choice for balcony and walkway applications.
One of the most important features of modern construction is the allowance for thermal movement. Traditional sheet membranes often lack the flexibility to accommodate the natural movement of a building due to temperature changes. This can result in the formation of cracks or tears in the membrane, allowing water to seep through.
Proteus Pro-BW® Plus, being a liquid-applied system, provides superior flexibility that can withstand structural and thermal movement. Once cured, it forms a seamless, elastic membrane that moves with the structure, reducing the likelihood of cracks or breaches in the protective layer.
For both new builds and refurbishment projects, time is often of the essence. Traditional waterproofing systems can take days to install due to the complexity of laying down and bonding multiple layers. Additionally, systems like torch-on membranes can pose fire risks, requiring additional safety precautions.
Liquid waterproofing systems offer a rapid curing process, reducing installation time from days to just a few hours. This is particularly beneficial for refurbishment projects where minimal disruption is crucial. The cold-applied nature of a liquid system also means it eliminates fire hazards, making it ideal for application in occupied buildings.
One of the primary weaknesses of traditional sheet-based waterproofing systems is the presence of seams. These seams are potential points of failure, where water can penetrate over time. Even minor imperfections in the installation process can lead to costly leaks and damage.
By contrast, liquid-applied systems provide a fully seamless application. The liquid form allows the membrane to cover the surface without breaks or joints, significantly reducing the risk of leaks. This continuous, homogenous layer of protection ensures that the balcony or walkway is fully waterproofed, with no weak points.
Liquid systems are also highly versatile and can be applied to various substrates, including concrete, asphalt and timber surfaces. This makes them suitable for a wide range of external applications, from communal and private balconies to staircases, walkways and pedestrian ramps.
Traditional systems often require significant surface preparation or are limited by the type of substrate they can adhere to. With liquid waterproofing, the adaptability to different materials ensures that the solution can be applied to both new builds and refurbishment projects without extensive preparation or the need for additional bonding agents.
One of the key features for systems such as Proteus Pro-BW® Plus is its excellent resistance to UV rays and chemicals, ensuring long-term durability. The system is designed to perform in the harshest conditions, maintaining its integrity even after years of exposure to the elements. 
Slip-resistant
In addition to its waterproofing capabilities, liquid systems like ours provide a slip-resistant surface. This is particularly important for walkways and balconies, where foot traffic is high, and safety is a priority. Equally as important, there are broader environmental and economic advantages to choosing a liquid-applied waterproofing system. Liquid systems can be shown, for example, to contribute to sustainable building practices by extending the lifespan of balconies and walkways. Fewer repairs and replacements mean less construction waste and a reduced need for new materials. This has a positive environmental impact by lowering the carbon footprint of building maintenance.
Such systems also come into their own when it comes to refurbishment projects, which often have their unique challenges, particularly when structural movement has already occurred. In such cases, traditional waterproofing systems can be ineffective, as they may not accommodate the ongoing movement of the structure.
Proteus Pro-BW® Plus is specifically designed to handle these challenges. Its flexibility and ability to cure quickly make it the ideal solution for refurbishment projects where structural movement is anticipated. By using a liquid-applied system, you can prevent further damage and protect the building from future water ingress, without the need for extensive structural modifications.
We can see therefore, that waterproofing balconies and walkways is more than just a protective measure—it's an investment in the long-term performance, safety, and aesthetics of any property. By opting for a liquid-applied solution, property owners and facility managers can ensure robust protection against the elements, while benefiting from a fast, seamless application that outperforms traditional methods in flexibility, durability and overall cost-effectiveness. With its ability to handle structural movement and its slip-resistant, visually appealing finish, liquid waterproofing proves to be the ideal choice for both new builds and refurbishments alike.