Roof Terrace Balustrades: Understand the Waterproofing Risk Before You Choose

Balcony Waterproofing Problems

Most roof terrace balustrades are fixed by penetrating the waterproof membrane. That may satisfy the structural requirement, but it can also create a long-term waterproofing interface above occupied space.

BalcoDeck® is an engineered roof terrace balustrade and decking system designed to reduce that risk. It allows structurally compliant balustrades and decking to be installed without penetrating the waterproof layer.

Traditional Detail vs BalcoDeck®

Traditional penerative system
BalcoDeck® penerative system

The Hidden Risk Is Often in the Fixing Method

Traditional Penetrative Detail

  • Membrane is drilled for the fixing
  • Penetration is sealed on site
  • Detail appears watertight at completion
  • Movement, weather and ageing create stress
  • Water enters the build-up and repairs become expensive

BalcoDeck® Non-Penetrative System

  • No direct membrane penetration
  • Waterproof layer remains continuous
  • Balustrade loads are structurally supported
  • Fewer vulnerable fixing interfaces
  • Designed to reduce long-term leak risk

How BalcoDeck® Works

Waterproofing Is Completed BalcoDeck® Is Installed Above the Surface Decking and Balustrades Are Added
The roof or terrace is waterproofed first, creating a continuous protective layer. The BalcoDeck® structural platform is installed above the waterproofed roof. The decking and balustrades are installed onto the BalcoDeck® platform without relying on direct membrane penetrations for the balustrade fixings.

Proven. Compliant. Trusted.

BalcoDeck® is an engineered roof terrace system developed to support structural performance, waterproofing protection and long-term building confidence.

Engineered

Designed to support roof terrace balustrades and decking through an engineered structural platform.

Structural Compliance

Project-specific structural information can be provided to support compliance with relevant design standards.

Certificate of Compliance

Documentation can be issued for each project to support Building Control, contractors and duty holders.

Building Safety Support

Helps project teams reduce avoidable waterproofing risk and support clearer responsibility across the terrace build-up.

Patent-Protected System

A protected BalcoDeck® concept developed around non-penetrative roof terrace construction.

Reduces Risk

Helps protect membrane warranties and supports long-term waterproofing performance by reducing direct fixing penetrations.

FAQ

Yes. Balustrade fixings can increase waterproofing risk if they penetrate or interrupt the membrane. Even when sealed, each fixing point must continue to perform over time.

Water can travel beneath finishes, insulation and structural layers before becoming visible. The leak location inside the building may not be directly below the original defect.

Sealant can form part of a waterproofing detail, but it should not be treated as the only protection. Sealant can age, crack or fail over time.corrosion, and hidden structural deterioration.

BalcoDeck® supports the decking and balustrade through an engineered platform above the waterproofed surface, helping reduce direct balustrade penetrations through the membrane.

Yes. BalcoDeck® can be useful where an existing or newly completed waterproofing layer needs to be protected from additional penetrations.