Preserving residential assets through balcony restoration
Visible cracks, crumbling concrete, unstable railings… The signs of balcony deterioration don’t lie and call for immediate action. That was exactly the situation we faced at 200 boulevard de la Cité des Jeunes in Gatineau, where our team was entrusted with the complete restoration of a residential building’s balconies. This type of intervention plays a crucial role in both occupant safety and the long-term durability of the structure. A deteriorated balcony may show cracks, water infiltration, or weakened concrete: signs that should never be ignored. Regular maintenance and preventive restoration not only extend the lifespan of balconies but also help preserve the overall value of a building.
Early detection: your best investment
The first signs of balcony deterioration often appear as small cracks in the concrete, surface spalling, loose railings, or visible rust. These indicators point to deeper issues related to reinforcement corrosion and water penetration. Ignoring them can lead to costly repairs or even full replacement. That’s why it is essential for building owners to consult experts as soon as these symptoms appear.
Tailored logistics with Fraco platforms
To successfully complete this project, we relied on several Fraco ACT-8 elevating platforms. Strategically positioned around the building, they provided optimal access to every façade while ensuring safety and efficiency. The use of these motorized platforms allowed our teams to reach work areas without interruption, transport materials efficiently, and speed up project completion. A 2,500-pound capacity hoist was also integrated, enabling the handling of heavy loads up to 290 feet high.
Structural diagnosis and rehabilitation
Our engineering team carried out a full structural assessment of the concrete balconies, an essential step to ensure resident safety and the building’s durability. This process involves thoroughly inspecting slabs, reinforcement, and anchoring systems to detect any signs of degradation, corrosion, or cracking.
Depending on the issues identified, we performed interventions ranging from localized repairs to complete balcony replacement when structural stability required it. Existing railings were temporarily removed, then reinstalled once the work was completed. This step is often necessary to allow proper access to the concrete structures requiring rehabilitation.
Preventing wear: protective membranes
A waterproofing membrane was applied to all balcony surfaces to protect the concrete from water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles. This membrane acts as a durable protective barrier, essential for extending the service life of balconies. In addition, a breathable layer was applied beneath the balconies, allowing the concrete to dry while shielding it from external aggressions.
This tailored approach ensures the integrity of the building envelope, protects the structure from moisture, and prolongs the overall durability of the balconies.
A project that combines safety and durability
Through careful planning, the expertise of our teams, and the use of mast-climbing work platforms, we were able to complete this restoration project safely. It highlights the importance of combining technical know-how, customized access solutions, and high-performance materials to deliver lasting results for building owners.
Balconies are not just outdoor spaces for residents: they are structural elements that contribute to both the safety and the value of an entire building. Investing in their maintenance means investing in peace of mind and the longevity of real estate assets.
