In many roof terrace projects, structural detailing follows a familiar path. Balustrades and structural elements are typically fixed directly into the slab, providing a clear and efficient load path that meets structural requirements.
However, this approach introduces a secondary condition – penetrations through the waterproofing layer – which rely on sealants and localised detailing to maintain performance over time.
While these details can perform effectively at installation stage, they are exposed to movement, environmental conditions and long-term material ageing. As a result, they may become points of vulnerability within the roof build-up – often hidden beneath finishes and difficult to access.
As the industry places greater emphasis on lifecycle performance and long-term risk, design teams are beginning to reassess whether these accepted detailing approaches remain appropriate.
Systems such as BalcoDeck®, developed by Balconette, offer an alternative by allowing structural loads to be managed without penetrating the waterproof membrane. By maintaining continuity within the waterproofing layer, they reduce reliance on sealant-dependent interfaces and support more robust long-term performance.
Read the full article on Balconette here.
