03/28/2023
One of the big items that if missed during due diligence or not properly included as a line item into your CapEx, are topping slab concrete balconies which can be costly to repair and add up quickly.
The assembly typically consists of wood frame and sheathing, covered by concrete surface, over waterproofing assembly protecting the wood underneath. Some of the conditions that may indicate signs of deterioration, leaks and are signs of need for repairs are:
1. Paint and panels on the Soffit areas, directly beneath balcony above, show cracks, bubbling of paints and/or stain marks.
2. Interior finish damages at the floor-to-ceiling transition. Generally, around the door to access the balcony, or in a worse scenario, at the interior walls facing the balcony perimeter.
3. Spalling of the concrete. This condition typically occurs in cold areas, where water trapped between the waterproofing and concrete, due to improper slope of the balcony sheathing, cause for water during freeze-thaw cycle, which cause for the concrete to deteriorate.
4. Water damage at exterior corners and edge perimeter where wood substrate is exposed and waterproofing not properly integrated with the weather barrier.
Have a good day everyone!