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Balcony leaks are a common issue for homeowners in Richmond, London, particularly in period and modern properties with exposed outdoor spaces. When waterproofing systems fail, water can easily penetrate through the balcony structure and cause damage to internal rooms below. In this recent Richmond project, a leaking balcony was allowing rainwater to enter the bedroom beneath, requiring a fast, durable, and visually neat waterproofing solution.
The homeowner initially noticed damp patches and staining on the bedroom ceiling directly beneath the balcony. These marks became more prominent after rainfall, a clear sign of water ingress. As Richmond experiences frequent rain throughout the year, the issue was worsening quickly and posed a risk of mould growth and further internal damage.
Upon inspection, it became evident that the tiled balcony surface had failed. While some tiles appeared intact, cracks in the grout and breakdown of the original waterproof membrane underneath allowed water to seep through the concrete slab. Localised repairs would not have been sufficient — the balcony required a complete waterproofing solution.
To properly address the problem, all existing tiles were removed from the balcony. Tile removal is essential in many leaking balcony repairs, as it allows full access to the substrate and reveals hidden defects that are often missed with surface-level fixes.
Once the tiles were lifted, the balcony surface was thoroughly cleaned and prepared. Old adhesive, dust, and loose materials were removed to create a stable base. Proper preparation is critical to the success of balcony waterproofing systems, especially in external areas exposed to Richmond’s variable weather conditions.
A high-performance three-layer waterproofing system was applied to the balcony to ensure long-term protection. This system is ideal for balconies and terraces in London properties, as it is flexible, seamless, and designed to cope with thermal movement and regular rainfall.
The first layer acted as a primer, ensuring strong adhesion to the prepared substrate. The second layer formed the main waterproof membrane, creating a continuous barrier that prevents water penetration. Extra care was taken around edges, joints, and drainage points — the most common failure areas in balcony waterproofing.
The third and final layer provided both protection and a finished surface. A non-slip coating was applied, making the balcony safer to use in wet conditions while still delivering a clean and modern appearance.
One of the key benefits of this balcony waterproofing project in Richmond was that retiling was not required. Instead of reinstalling tiles, the waterproofing system itself served as the final finish.
This approach significantly reduced both costs and installation time. Without the need for tiling, grouting, or extended curing periods, the balcony could be sealed and protected much faster. For homeowners in Richmond looking for a practical and efficient solution to balcony leaks, this method offers excellent value.
The completed balcony had a smooth, uniform finish that complemented the property’s exterior. The non-slip surface added safety without compromising aesthetics and is easy to maintain over time.
Thanks to efficient scheduling and the use of fast-curing materials, the project was completed quickly, minimising disruption to the household. Once cured, the balcony was fully waterproof and ready to withstand Richmond’s wet weather conditions, eliminating the leak into the bedroom below.
This Richmond balcony waterproofing project highlights the importance of addressing leaks at their source rather than relying on temporary repairs. A professionally installed three-layer waterproofing system provides long-term protection, prevents internal water damage, and helps preserve the structural integrity of the property.
If you’re experiencing a leaking balcony in Richmond or surrounding areas of South West London, early intervention is essential. Expert balcony waterproofing can save you from costly repairs in the future while delivering a safe, durable, and visually appealing result.
