What should you know before covering the outside of a balcony or loggia?

The balcony in most old houses is subject to the harmful effects of wind and precipitation. Therefore, it poses a danger, since fungi and mold can appear on its surface. And the service life of such a structure will be greatly reduced. Concrete can begin to deteriorate faster due to weathering and regular wetting. But all this can be avoided if you cover the parapet with corrugated sheets, siding or other suitable material.

Exterior finishing options

What should open balconies look like?

Speaking about any rules, you should not put forward unambiguous design requirements: in fact, it is important to meet the conditions under which the decoration of an open balcony or loggia will allow this space to maintain its properties and appearance during a long cold period. For this it is important:

• Provide high-quality waterproofing of structures.
• Protect the space as much as possible from precipitation.
• Ensure unimpeded drainage.
• Choose moisture-resistant finishing materials.

In this case, the floor is subject to the greatest load, since water and melting snow will flow freely along the walls and fences. Only the choice of an effective coating will allow such a balcony or loggia to be used for several years.

Main features of open-type structures

Before you start decorating an open balcony from the inside or outside, you need to familiarize yourself with the main features of such a room.

Quite often, such structures are confused with loggias, and this is not surprising, since they are similar. However, despite this, they also have distinctive features.

The main difference is that the balcony is visible from the street. It is made in the form of a protruding element of the facade. This structure is made from wood beams or concrete slabs. The loggia, unlike the balcony rooms, is located within the walls of the building and does not stand out against the background of the general facade from the outside.

Other design features include the fact that it is not glazed. Because of this, in winter it is quite cold on such a balcony. That is why many people are trying to equip it, glaze it, insulate it and waterproof it.

Tile is often used for flooring

Soft windows

“Soft windows” are protective screens made of transparent PVC film.

The idea is not new, and the proposed solutions are somewhat reminiscent of the old method of constructing a translucent balcony fence made of dense polyethylene film. Of course, polyethylene quite significantly reduced the level of natural light in the room, but the balcony was closed from rain and snow, and the “Soviet carpentry” of doors and windows was less exposed to the cold wind.

Features of the device and mounting

As you can see, the temperature range is such that the film can be used all year round, and the width of the roll is sufficient to cover the front of a standard 3 m long balcony with two sheets. You can buy PVC film in a roll, but it is better to order ready-made windows, which can be either removable or for permanent mounting. In addition to transparent, there is a tinted film for sun protection.

To cover a balcony with soft windows, you need to arrange openings - a kind of frame to which you can attach the edges of the screen. The simplest option is frames made of wooden beams with rigid fastening to the facade, slab and fence.

Depending on the type of balcony fencing, soft windows can be of three types:

Transparent soft windows are made with edging. The edging is a strip of durable opaque awning fabric, and it serves to accommodate fastening points. Both materials are connected with a soldered seam, which is not inferior in tensile strength to film. Combined soft windows differ only in that on one side, instead of a narrow edging, a wide strip of the same awning fabric is soldered.

The methods of fastening to the frame offered by window manufacturers are as follows:

The first two types of windows can be either completely removable or pivoted, when the top edge is permanently attached to the frame, and the panel is rolled up and secured with straps.

It is extremely inconvenient to completely fasten a soft window onto the brackets - there is no access from the outside, and it is difficult to thread the last bracket into the grommet from the inside. Therefore, instead of eyelets, a pocket is sewn onto the lower edge, into which a weighting agent is placed. Typically, a propylene water pipe with a piece of fittings inside and plugs at the ends is used for this.

How to install soft ones on the balcony with your own hands

The main difficulty is to solder the film and the edging of the tent fabric. Without a soldering iron (hair dryer) for welding plastic, it is simply impossible to make a “beautiful” seam. But buying a tool essentially for one time makes no sense. But if you have a soldering iron, as well as the skills to work with it, then the sequence of making a soft window is as follows:

Naturally, installing custom-made soft windows yourself will be much easier.

What needs to be done to make the balcony cozy?

First of all, you need to get rid of everything unnecessary if the balcony served as a storage room. Although you can combine business with pleasure. Feel free to leave such niches and store there everything your heart desires. For example, blankets and pillows. These lockers are especially useful in case of bad weather.

On such a balcony it is quite possible to gather in a small group.

Furniture should be selected according to the size of the balcony.

It is better to use folding chairs and tables.

You can easily remove them at any time and free up space. Even such round chairs are quite suitable for the balcony.

Wicker furniture is also suitable for it.

Here you can place a wicker chest and use it to store various necessary small items. The upper part is quite suitable as a flower stand. In addition, wicker flowerpots with flowers are also suitable. Almost like being in a country house!

By the way, how do you like this mini-greenhouse?

Look how simply and at the same time lovingly decorated the seating area. It is a continuation of the general interior space.

For evening gatherings, grab a blanket and a candle - and here’s a romantic tea party. Decorative pillows, rugs, blankets and flowers can complement the overall picture.

On the balcony you can create a real oasis for the soul.

Regular benches are also a good option.

I would like to say a few words about flowers. There should be enough of them to make it comfortable for you to be on the balcony.

This can be one flower pot (bucket) or wooden boxes. The main thing is that they look organically in this space and do not interfere with movement.

If the balcony is high, then it is better not to hang flowers outside so that the wind does not harm them.

Choose flowers depending on the location of the balcony itself. Not everyone likes direct sunlight. For plants, you can use small bedside tables, shelves and simply place them on the floor.

Even in winter, a balcony can have a special charm.

As you can see, a balcony can become an additional space for the soul, where you can enjoy nature, dream and admire the starry sky.

Roller shutters

Roller shutters, or roller shutter systems with slats made of dense materials, are used as additional protection for windows from penetration into the room. If you use monolithic polycarbonate instead of a metal profile or opaque plastic to make slats, then such a roller shutter can be installed on a balcony instead of glazing.

Transparent roller shutters, like any other, are made to order, using ready-made solutions and a standard set of accessories.

The characteristics of different manufacturers are usually typical and look like this:

If we compare prices, roller shutters with polycarbonate slats are more expensive than wind-resistant awnings and much more expensive than soft windows. The cost of 1 m 2 of transparent roller shutter is comparable to the price of a “cold” aluminum window with a swing-and-hing mechanism.

Source

How to arrange an open balcony

You need to make sure in advance that by the beginning of the season your balcony looks like a picture from a fashion magazine. First of all, you need to imagine in what style it should be decorated.

Proper design of the balcony

To make it easier to implement your plan for arranging an open balcony, you should pay attention to its size and shape - it will be impossible to place a comfortable sofa in a small space.

A small cozy table for morning coffee will look completely out of place in a space “where you can play football.”

Having dealt with this, you should look at the condition of the facade wall - it will not be very pleasant to spend time sitting on comfortable furniture surrounded by flowers against the backdrop of a shabby wall. We do not recommend starting something grandiose! It’s just that if the appearance of the facade “leaves much to be desired,” it should be refreshed with light cosmetic repairs.

Don't forget about choosing the right flooring. For open balconies, I recommend using decking boards or tiles. This is the best choice currently.

Moreover, the tiles can be laid with your own hands on any, even uneven, base. Or you can simply cover the old floor with rugs or “artificial grass.”

landscaping

Having finished with the renovation and furniture, you can take care of the landscaping. It is very important to remember that you need to choose the right plants. Not a single flower that loves to grow in the shade can withstand the bright scorching sun if your balcony is located on the sunny side and vice versa. Therefore, choosing plants is a very serious and responsible moment.

In addition, you should consider whether you want your flowers to grow and weave, creating a pleasant shaded corner for you, or whether you want to decorate your balcony with original outdoor pots. When choosing the first option, you should definitely take care in advance about where you will “relocate” the overgrown climbing plant after the onset of cold weather or opt for hanging annuals.

Decor and accessories

And finally, accessories! Well, there’s just a sea of ​​solutions! You can either use what you have by “relocating” some of the vases, ashtrays, toys from the apartment, or go to the store for new ones - fortunately, the choice is great and the prices are affordable!

A summer umbrella will look great in an open space. which needs to be well secured so that it does not get torn off by gusts of wind.

And if possible, a cozy hanging chair on chains will create unique chic in even the smallest loggia.

Summer is a great opportunity to renew and breathe new life into your open balcony and it will become a favorite corner for your family and guests, to whom you will be proud to show “your creation”!

Selection of furniture

Of course, it should be comfortable and convenient and fit harmoniously into the overall picture of your idea. But there are some nuances here too! If you are a wealthy person, then you can solve the problem of furniture simply by contacting any furniture salon.

If buying new furniture makes it difficult for you, then first you need to decide on a budget that you can afford. Here comes a moment of space for “flights of fancy.”

You can purchase an old snowstorm you like and update it by painting and varnishing it. You can also buy some additional furniture so that it looks harmonious with what you have.

For example, you have a wonderful small table that just fits into your future interior, but you are sorely missing low soft chairs to go with it. This problem can be solved simply - small sofa cushions or a thin futon mattress will solve the problem.

And if you add a small cabinet for things made of moisture-resistant materials to the futon, then folding furniture can be stored in it without cluttering up the space in the apartment.

How to cover the ceiling

On a glazed balcony, the ceiling is often sheathed either with the same material as the walls, or with plastic panels. You can make a ceiling from plasterboard.

If we are talking about an unglazed balcony or loggia, then the ceiling is usually sheathed with siding. It is inexpensive, washes well, is easy to install and at the same time holds up well.

See the photo below for several ideas for finishing unglazed balconies.

How to sheathe without glazing: a combination of a plastered painted surface and decorative stone

Another note on the topic of repairing balconies. Now smart people understand that balconies are not only a storage room for skis and bicycles, but also a place where you can sit, smoke, relax, and that the balcony should look aesthetically pleasing. In addition, the balcony is a thermal buffer between the room and the street. Therefore, repairs to the balcony are necessary

, if you still have a dump of dirt and junk there.

I immediately ask you not to confuse a balcony with a loggia; we are talking specifically about balconies - separate hanging rooms that we inherited from the times of the USSR (although in modern construction there are “balcony” houses).

Despite the fact that professional glazing of balconies has existed for a long time, people still live with such structures from the Gorbachev era:

Or even with open balconies and colossal heat losses through bad windows.

Available types of balcony glazing

Classic (Provedal + skirt)

:

Side windows can be opening, glass or fixed. Of course, hinged sidewalls are the best and most reasonable solution. At least the glass will be easier to clean.

Here is another interesting design option - the side part is completely covered with siding. I've only seen a balcony like this once:

And the same with the blind side part, closed by means of a profile:

The same material is used for Stalinist balconies; there is no exoticism here. And the scary balconies turn into these cute ones:

Please note: such balconies are ordered with an independent roof

, which will significantly increase the final cost of glazing. But believe me, it's worth it.

Here is an unsuccessful roof installation:

More precisely, the roof was installed normally, but without taking into account the specifics of the general house roof. And the masses of melting snow simply crushed the soft galvanization. If you have a risk of such cases, pay attention to this point when ordering glazing. Winter snow and ice are no joke, but a huge and dangerous mass for thin roofs.

More unusual designs on old Stalinist balconies.

Skirt (apron), frame + roof made of corrugated sheets (possibly with your own hands):

Racks, roof frame + polycarbonate:

Frame, vinyl lining + PVC window:

It resembles a doghouse, but it’s warm in winter.

Balcony glazing with extension

:

In this case, a separate frame-frame is installed, the old restrictive grille is cut down.

Due to such a protruding frame, the balcony benefits in area. In the second photo, a balcony with a PVC profile is the most expensive solution.

Another type of balcony with an independent frame and aluminum profile

:

It is a glass cube. Ideal for growing flowers. But this is not comfortable to be in - it is completely visible from the street.

Balconies of similar design based on PVC profiles:

And an interesting photo where all types of balconies are collected in one riser:

To begin to understand the topic of repairing an open balcony that has not been glazed, that is, it is an ordinary balcony without windows, you need to understand what a balcony is. Essentially, this is a reinforced concrete slab protruding from the facade of the building, on which a metal fence is installed on three sides. The thickness of the slab is 14-15 cm.

Let's just say that there are no specific requirements for the repairs being carried out; everything will depend on the condition of this reinforced concrete slab. The cost of repairs will depend on this.

The nuances of a major overhaul of an open balcony.

When preparing a design project for an unglazed balcony, you should consider the following:

• It is necessary to consider the concrete screed on the floor, as it will be exposed to weather conditions. For the coating, ceramic tiles with rough edges are most often chosen to prevent slipping; terrace decking is also suitable. The result is a safe flooring.

• To prevent water from flowing into the screed and joints, the walls and floors must be framed with a border, most often a ceramic one is used.
• To avoid icing in winter, a thermal cable is placed under the screed, which heats the floor and ice, and snow does not remain on the floor.
• The walls will be subject to changes in temperature and moisture, so moisture-resistant materials are used for finishing, for example, decorative plaster or tiles. Glossy ceramic tiles are the easiest to care for, as dirt and dust do not linger on them. However, when using it for the floor, provide a non-slip mat

• Decking is used universally. The decking board can be used to cover both the floor and the walls, and to make a fence, as it is resistant to weather conditions.

An open balcony is used for relaxation and more often users give preference to minimalist, classic, high-tech, country and nautical styles.

Finishing materials

Some people are interested in how to decorate balcony walls from the inside and how to finish them. There are several materials that are most often used for this:

• Primer. This is the cheapest finishing material. It is used to increase the strength and adhesive properties of walls.
• Tile. If you want to decorate the walls or floor with your own hands, you can use a material called tile. With its help you can beautifully decorate your balcony and decorate your interior.
• Varnish. One of the easiest ways to finish walls is to use varnish. With its help it will be possible to protect walls from high humidity.
• Lining. You can use clapboard to cover the walls. Such boards are ideal for finishing an open balcony. The fact is that they are resistant to sudden changes in temperature and high humidity.

If you want to reduce financial costs when choosing a finishing material, you can use decorative plaster.

Decor and design of open balconies.

Decor is important for an open balcony. How the balcony will be perceived as a whole depends on the design of the site, and you can decorate it in absolutely different ways.

• Use of plants. Since direct sunlight harms some groups of plants, it is worth paying attention to which side of the world the balcony is located on.
• Climbing vines. This is an opportunity to create an oasis in the middle of a concrete noisy city, asphalt and dust.

• Flowers on the balcony. When using flowers in decoration, it is worth remembering that in combination with bulky furniture there will be a feeling of overload. In this case, it is better to use wrought iron or transparent furniture.

• Use of forged elements. A country house or dacha may have an unglazed balcony for decorative purposes, which will look great with a wrought-iron fence. Custom-made elements of various elegant shapes or purchased ready-made will delight you for years. The view from the window will be special and will surprise your guests.

• Use of textiles. Pillows, napkins and tablecloths will give the balcony a cozy, comfortable atmosphere.

• Using handmade decor to decorate the balcony of a private home is a modern trend. Feel free to use homemade floral panels, garlands, candles and other decorative elements to turn your balcony into an interesting and vibrant space.

Awnings

The main purpose of a classic awning is sun protection. Rain protection depends on the waterproofness of the fabric, and comes as an additional bonus. There are three main types of awning designs that can be installed on the balcony:

The first two types are used as a canopy (canopy) on the balconies of low-rise or apartment buildings, if there is no other balcony or roof above. They can protect against direct rain, but they won’t help against snow and slanting rain. In addition, due to the design and fastening features, basket and elbow awnings do not “hold” strong winds, so they are folded in windy weather.

Vertical awnings (also called “display awnings”) resemble roller blinds in their design, and for installation you need a frame with a strong crossbar for the box and sidewalls for the guides. Therefore, they are used only if there is another balcony or a stationary canopy on top with supports on posts, that is, when an opening can be created.

If we talk about materials, there are three types of vertical awnings, which, with certain restrictions, can be installed on balconies to protect them from precipitation:

Transparent awnings

Transparent PVC films are also used for the manufacture of display awnings. Movement in the vertical plane can be carried out in two ways: on cables and along guides.

Cable awnings are cheaper, but not as wind resistant as track systems. To reduce wind pressure during strong gusts, the manufacturers themselves recommend not closing the canvas completely, but lowering it by 20-25 cm. Another recommendation is to use it together with soft windows on grommets.

The general disadvantage of transparent awnings is due to the nature of the canvas material itself.

PVC film is quite capricious, and with significant temperature changes in cold weather it can “freeze” in the roll. Therefore, in winter, when the average daily temperature reaches below +5°C, the awning must be constantly kept either completely open or completely closed.

Opaque and translucent awnings

Of all types of awnings, wind-resistant systems such as Reflexol ZIP are best suited for protection from wind and precipitation. These systems differ from conventional ones in the special design of the guides and more durable fabrics with special processing of the edges. These systems use two types of fabric: dense or perforated.

With dense fabrics, a vertical awning can only be opaque. Naturally, the view through it is completely absent. Such an awning can only be used on a balcony together with soft windows, and only in order to be able to quickly open or close the opening.

Perforated fabric can be considered universal. According to manufacturers of awnings with fabrics such as Soltis 86, Soltis 92 or Copaco, their products shade the room well, maintaining visibility and a fairly decent level of natural light. In addition, perforation significantly reduces the impact of wind, but does not impair natural ventilation. As for protection from rain, the weave of the threads is dense enough so that rain, due to the surface tension of the drops, flows down outside the fabric, and not inside.

Stages of work

Wall finishing and decoration

As for the decoration of the walls of an open balcony, this has its own peculiarity. For walls, it is necessary to select a material that will cope well with the influences of the external environment. Often, materials intended for open balconies resist various manifestations of the external environment: humidity, drying out, temperature changes; they are also resistant to pollution and have a long service life.

Materials for wall decoration:

• Primer. Initially, the walls of the loggia must be treated with a soil mixture. It is chosen taking into account the finish. Professionals advise using a primer, the composition of which allows it to penetrate deeply into the pores of the coating, increasing adhesion and giving them additional strength.
• Paints and varnishes. When choosing a paint, it is necessary to take into account high abrasion resistance, that is, it is better to opt for weather-resistant paint, which is often used for painting external surfaces.
• Plaster. If you decide to use plaster in the finishing, then an acceptable option would be to use decorative plaster. It contains additional additives that prevent shrinkage and the formation of cracks on wall surfaces.
• Tile. If your choice is in favor of tiles, then it is best to use porcelain stoneware for finishing an open balcony, which is durable, frost-resistant, and also copes well with various types of precipitation.
• Siding or lining. An ideal solution for finishing the walls of open areas. The materials are not afraid of temperature changes; they also cope well with humidity. As for the sheathing, for open surfaces it is still better to use metal elements treated with anti-corrosion compounds rather than wooden slats.

It happens that making changes to the façade design of a house is unacceptable. These can be historical sites, elite areas. In other cases, you can resort to painting, plastering, cladding and paneling. If this is not a private house, then when choosing materials for finishing an open balcony, you need to start not only from personal preferences, but from the general design of the facade of the building.

The mechanical load on the walls is insignificant, so the tiles should only be resistant to weather conditions. Because of this, cladding with glaze, porcelain stoneware, and any type of artificial stone is acceptable. The gaps between the elements can be 1-1.5 mm.

If it is intended to use cladding material, then it is better to assemble the supporting sheathing of the balcony from a metal profile with an anti-corrosion coating. In this case, the wooden beam will last less. Popular options include plastic panels, decking, and corrugated sheets.

If we consider materials on a relatively modest budget, then we can apply façade paint or decorative plaster to the loggias. It will be more difficult to apply the solution without the skills of a painter, but such a coating will last much longer than paint film. Most plasters can be painted over and over again.

When choosing wall finishes, you should take into account increased humidity at different times of the year and temperature changes. It won't be wallpaper or other impractical solutions, but there's no need to leave these surfaces bare.

Stylized brick inserts and paintings, a combination of mosaics and tiles, stained glass windows and artificial stone tiles will look great here. The choice depends only on your imagination and the planned design of the balcony.

It is less common to cover the walls of an open space with wood, since it is less resistant to moisture than ceramics, stone, paint or plastic. You can find options that are used in the construction and finishing of gazebos, terraces, etc., but their practicality is still inferior to a number of other materials. But since there are still few walls on the balcony, you can choose stylish stylized solutions:

• Decorative brickwork for loft style;
• Concrete variations in industrial design;
• Painting in romantic Provence;
• Mosaic or ceramic tiles in country style, etc.

Floor decoration

The choice of the type of finishing coating for finishing the floor of a balcony without warm glazing is primarily influenced by special requirements for operating conditions (temperature differences, different humidity levels, strong winds).

Ceramic/porcelain tiles (the composition includes clay, kaolin, quartz sand, feldspar) are distinguished by a wide variety of sizes, colors, and textures.

Due to the firing of porcelain stoneware at high temperatures (up to 1250° C), the material acquires a longer service life than ceramics.

Pros and cons of porcelain stoneware:

• frost resistance;
• wear resistance;
• moisture resistance;
• withstands significant weight loads on the floor in the loggia;
• wide range of manufacturers;
• no special care or special cleaning products are required.
• cold floor (the material does not retain heat well due to low thermal insulation);
• slippery surface (especially when moisture gets on the coating);
• high price;
• exceptional requirements for installation (only on a perfectly flat, dry surface, otherwise the material can be deformed);
• significant weight of tiles.

Terrace board (decking) consists of the following materials: wood-polymer composite, wood raw materials (larch or cedar, as well as exotic varieties of iroko, merbau - rot-resistant). The higher the percentage of wood content, the more the product resembles natural wood. If the composition is dominated by polymer, then the material is more similar to plastic. What type to choose for floor finishing is decided individually.

Advantages of decking boards

• compatibility with other materials;
• resistance to moisture (due to the polymer component);
• practicality;
• the coating can withstand significant weight loads (approximately 540 kg per square meter);
• aesthetics;
• resistance to mold or mildew;
• the material is comfortable to the touch;
• does not create a slippery surface;
• resistance to temperature changes;
• long service life;
• simple and easy installation/disassembly;
• easy maintenance without the use of special tools or devices;
• when installing a seamless coating, no cracks or gaps are formed;
• light weight;
• good performance.

Disadvantages: high cost.

Ceiling

If this is not the top floor, then the balcony slab of the apartment above acts as the ceiling. On the top floor and in private houses there is no ceiling near the balcony, but there is a canopy that can be lined with a board from the inside.

To finish the ceiling of an open balcony, choose the following materials:

• Dye. If the slab is in good condition, then it is enough to prime the surface, apply a thin layer of leveling putty, prime again and paint in two layers. It is also suitable for finishing the lining of the visor, but in each case the paint is chosen according to the type of surface.

• Decorative plaster.

• Lining. This can be a traditional wooden lining with any type of profile, as well as plastic slatted panels, which, due to the tongue-and-groove connection method, are also called lining. This type of finishing makes sense only for a false ceiling near a canopy over a balcony.

Roof installation

Finishing the inside of a balcony without glazing requires installing a roof or ebb. The visor should not protrude too much; this is dangerous in winter when ice forms. A large canopy increases the noise level in the apartment; raindrops and hail hit it; its task is to protect against bad weather and drain water, this is important when glazing is abandoned. The roof can be installed in any shape as long as there is space on top.

In apartment buildings, balconies are located close to each other, so it is impossible to turn in this direction, that is, the frame of the ceiling is the floor for the neighbors above. The exception is apartments on the upper floors.

Fence repair

With a fence everything is much simpler. These are metal rods, often made from reinforcement, which can easily be replaced with others. Some people repair their balcony railings with their own hands to avoid high costs.

For example, you can use a hammer to simply straighten the reinforcement bars, make them vertical or horizontal if they have become bent during long-term use. The same can be done with the corners. Then the entire structure is simply covered with paint. This is the simplest repair of a windowless balcony.

It will be more difficult to line the fence. For this, two materials are most often used:

• Vinyl siding.
• Profiled sheeting.

How are these flat materials installed on the outside of a balcony that has no windows? The simplest option is to cut the cladding to the size of the fence, then make holes in the sheets for mounting fasteners and install them with fasteners. Tie wire or bolts and nuts can be used as fasteners.

A more complex option, but of higher quality, is to build a sheathing for the cladding. It is best to use wooden beams as sheathing elements, which will need to be treated with an antiseptic solution and painted.

Advice! When installing external sheathing, it is necessary to strictly follow safety regulations. For example, all tools and products for the frame, as well as the finishing panels themselves, must be secured to the metal fencing of a windowless balcony with a safety rope, cable or chain. This is a guarantee that all these objects will not fall on the heads of passers-by.

Installation of sheathing

The wooden beam must be cut to the size of the fence. The sheathing elements are then attached to the fencing elements using tie wire. First along the perimeter: upper and lower. Then along the racks.

It is better to attach the bars to the facade of the building with self-tapping screws and plastic dowels. Intermediate pieces must be installed to increase the rigidity of the frame.

Installation of cladding

To make the installation process convenient in production, it is necessary to transfer the dimensions of the lathing structure to the finishing material. That is, it is necessary to accurately install and make mounting holes in the siding or corrugated sheet. After which they are carefully installed from the outside, secured with screws on wooden blocks. This process (repair) is not the easiest, so be careful and careful.

Usually the fence is not lined on the inside. It makes no sense. Although if you want to give a balcony without glazing a certain designer look, you can use any type of finish. True, only you will see him. For many, this is an important factor.

Installation of sides

So, as for the side fencing structures. On a balcony where there are no windows, this is an important element:

• Firstly, it acts as a barrier against side winds. In a room without glazing, it will play the role of protection against dust and debris (leaves, twigs, etc.).
• Secondly, if you take a creative approach to the shape and essence of the sides, you can make a good veranda on the balcony. For example, side fencing structures can be made in the form of decorative metal grilles. And if you change the fence as a whole, then you can combine everything in one single plan.
• Thirdly, you can grow climbing plants along the sides in the spring, which will block the view, plus they will give the balcony an unusual look, so you won’t need glazing.

As you can see, repair work on a balcony that has not been glazed is carried out quite often. Of course, the easiest option is to paint the fence. More difficult is to make the external cladding. And the most difficult thing is to repair the stove. That is, even if you are not going to install glazing, you still need to keep the balcony in good technical condition.

Furniture on the open balcony

It is better to equip an open structure, which is essentially a veranda, with garden furniture. It is protected from moisture, easily cleaned from external contaminants, and most often folds, which will allow you to transform the room. The key materials are metal, plastic, protected wood, rattan (natural and artificial), protected glass. If the corner is intended for work, transformable furniture will do. For relaxation, trestle beds with many pillows are suitable. For storing things - modern compact but spacious racks, chests of drawers and other storage systems.

Furniture is necessary to create comfort on the balcony. Here are a few things that might come in handy:

• Table and chairs for tea breaks and refreshments. You can use rattan furniture;
• A bench is an ideal option for a winter garden;
• for such a small space you can make a structure with your own hands, for example, from pallets;
• a hammock is a good option;
• Balcony cabinets are also available, design photos show compact solutions;
• Instead of furniture, you can use all kinds of pillows and poufs;
• Pots with flowers and souvenirs can be placed on the shelf.

For connoisseurs of country style, a wicker chair is suitable. They can be used even if the room is not glazed. Wicker furniture goes well with natural wood, fabrics and even plastic. You can purchase special cabinets for storing food or tools.

A small sofa with pull-out shelves takes up little space

Particular attention should be paid to the upholstery fabric of furniture. It must be durable and not stain. Functional options include a corner cabinet or chest of drawers. Such items can be placed in unused areas.

In our climate, warm evenings are a real value! Don't waste this wonderful time. Create a reading and relaxation corner on your open balcony and enjoy the fresh air.

All you need is a chair or bench, a few comfortable pillows and a blanket. Well, if you find a place for cozy decor and a small coffee table, you’ll get a relaxation zone.

Don't forget to provide sufficient lighting if you plan to read at night, and add live plants (for greater comfort and a feeling of unity with nature).

What could be more wonderful than breakfasts in the open air and cozy evening tea parties on your own balcony? Why not create a cozy spot while enjoying the opportunity to spend some more time in the sunshine?

Even on the smallest balcony there is room for a compact table and a couple of chairs. Candles and garlands will help add romance, while blankets, decorative pillows and a small rug on the floor will instantly create coziness.

Do you think it’s impossible to get a great tan in a big city? How about a spot in the sun on your own balcony? Unless, of course, it is covered 24/7 by the shadow of neighboring high-rise buildings.

A comfortable lounger is all you need. You can add a small table for refreshments, surround yourself with living greenery and stock up on an umbrella.

By the way, a couple of pillows and a blanket in the evening will turn your sunbathing spot into a cozy relaxation area in the fresh air.

Who said that in order to have a grill party you need to leave your own apartment somewhere? Modern manufacturers offer a lot of varieties of compact grills: from floor-mounted to table-top and wall-mounted. There are even special hanging models - for mounting on the side of the balcony.

If you are not a fan of “cluttered” spaces, and you prefer minimalism, you can limit yourself to the essentials on the open balcony. Without denying yourself comfort and coziness. Place a rocking chair or daybed and place a houseplant nearby in a stylish planter.

Installation of a new frame

To work with corrugated sheets or vinyl siding, a frame made up of wooden blocks is most often used. The cross-section of the material must correspond to the thickness of the insulation, which may be needed for further improvement of the balcony. The optimal size of a wooden block is 60 mm.

Before starting work, the material should be thoroughly treated with antiseptic substances. This will make it possible to obtain a reliable frame that is not subject to rot, which is very important for this section of the balcony on which the external cladding will be installed. This must be done before assembly begins in order to work with already dried wood.

To get a flat top surface, you need to start installation from the outer bars located at the corners of the parapet. When they are secured, you can stretch the lace between them and align the remaining frame parts along it. The bars should be secured using copper wire, tightening it around the metal rods of the old parapet. This allows you to get a stainless mount that firmly holds the wood.

The frame is attached to the walls using anchor bolts. Here you will need a hammer drill, but an electric drill with an impact mechanism will also cope with the task. It is important to remember that the optimal distance between the bars will be 40 cm. This way, you can achieve the strength of the cladding not only with siding, but also with corrugated sheets, which must withstand high wind loads, especially on the upper floors.

The frame work ends with the installation of a plastic corner profile. It will protect the ends of the bars from moisture and give the balcony an attractive appearance from the bottom. This element is attached directly to the frame, for which self-tapping screws with a press washer are used.

How to protect a balcony from rain, sun and wind without glazing

Often, it is a balcony or loggia that allows us not only to relax comfortably after a working day, but also to spend time in the fresh air, which is important for health. And this space will only become fully functional with appropriate protection.

We give tips on how to protect a balcony from rain without glazing, how to maintain the functionality of your space and make it look great.

Awnings or canopies

Awnings and awnings are two of the most convenient and easy to implement options that add character to your balcony. Awnings are an inexpensive and practical solution. Does not change the appearance of the building, protects from the sun and light rain. They provide shade, protection from rain and can transform a dull balcony into a gorgeous one.

It is worth choosing an awning with an adjustable slope, which will protect from heavy rain. However, its design cannot withstand heavy loads, especially wind. In such situations it should be minimized.

Beach umbrella

Yes, a beach umbrella can also be an ideal option for balconies, especially if you have a small one. Depending on the size of the balcony, attach one or two umbrellas to the railings. Voila! You have your own cozy corner where you can enjoy the rainy seasons in the best possible way!

Balcony awning

Many Russians today live in rented apartments, the balconies of which may not be glazed. In this case, it is logical to search for alternative functional, but less expensive options. One of them is the balcony awning. Using this type of canopy, you can make unlimited use of the balcony space and reduce overheating of the interior of the apartment in hot weather.

Colored, striped or plain - balcony awnings are always associated with warm summers and outdoor recreation. Regardless of how the balcony is designed, you can easily choose this accessory that will protect you from excessive sunlight or rain.

Modern materials coated with plastic are used to sew awnings. This makes them durable and resistant to wind, sun and rain. They can be additionally coated with a special compound that creates a barrier against changing weather conditions and protects against persistent dirt. Balcony awnings can be of almost any color. Some manufacturers even provide a 10-year warranty for this type of external accessory.

Some awnings are just a sloping roof (the so-called tents - straight or spherical), but it is better to choose a model that allows you to tilt the screen so that it creates an almost vertical wall. Manufacturers call this type of awning balustrade, since a supporting frame for the lower edge of the awning is installed on the parapet.

With this solution, the user receives a screen to protect from the low rising or setting sun, the rays of which can be extremely burdensome for people relaxing on the balcony. This installation also creates additional coolness inside the room next to the balcony.

Today, to protect your balcony, you can choose folding awnings that are rolled up or hidden in a box that protects the fabric and allows you to store it at the installation site at the end of the summer season. Such a rack can be installed on the facade, balcony railings on the side or front of the parapet.

Depending on the length of the body, the structure is fixed at several points. The standard width of the awning is about 550 cm and the extension of aluminum arms is from 80 to 180 cm. However, it is possible to order awnings of the desired size or a combination of several in a row on a long balcony or loggia.

Balcony awnings can be installed using brackets screwed to the facade wall or to the ceiling. Balcony awnings can be controlled manually, using an electric drive or a remote control.

Roof made of polycarbonate or glass

Polycarbonate is a transparent material, much lighter than glass and unbreakable. Protects the terrace from rain. The roof is transparent, so it does not limit the access of light to the apartment, but also does not protect the terrace from the sun. You can opt for colored polycarbonate, which slightly limits the effect of the sun. To create shade under the canopy, you can install roller blinds.

However, polycarbonate gets dirty easily and becomes difficult to keep clean under plants. Instead of polycarbonate, you can use safety glass - clear or smoked. A transparent glass or polycarbonate roof is especially useful if you want to grow plants on your terrace. The roof structure can be wooden or aluminum.

Attaching vinyl siding

When the wooden frame is ready, installation work should begin. To make the outer skin “walk around” less, you should leave the siding on the balcony before installation. The material will react to air temperature and expand. This will reduce the warping of the skin and almost completely eliminate the harmful effects of temperature changes.

Next, the installation of corner profiles and the starting strip begins. They are fastened with zinc coated self-tapping screws. This allows you to obtain a durable connection that is not subject to corrosion. The corner elements and the starting strip must be accurately aligned using a building level. The quality of subsequent siding installation depends on this.

Vinyl siding goes up pretty quickly. But you should follow some rules, thanks to which the cladding will last as long as when working with corrugated sheets. The main “law” is to leave a gap at the junction of panels and additional elements. The distance should be within 1 cm, which will prevent swelling when the siding expands.

Design of small balconies: photos and descriptions of successful examples

The main disadvantage of a small balcony is not the lack of free territory, as many have thought. This is also bad, but much worse is an incorrect form that is difficult for the designer. It takes away even more precious centimeters and limits your possibilities. Typically, furniture has to be placed at the ends and the center left empty. It is very rare to resort to zoning methods.

But there is natural daylight on any loggia. It is indispensable for creativity, growing plants, and working at the computer. It improves your health, gives you a great mood and relieves tension from your eyes.

It is important to adhere to the “golden mean” rule in the design of a small balcony. There should not be too large objects and a large number of small ones. The simplest thing is to decorate the room in a classic style.

To do this, the walls are painted in a light, neutral color, tiles that are 1-2 shades darker are laid on the floor, and ordinary furniture without any special decorations is used. You can also apply styles:

• avant-garde and similar;
• eastern;
• village.

High-tech and Japanese minimalism are suitable for arranging an office and winter garden. They are characterized by smooth lines, beige, white and light gray shades. If you like oriental motifs, focus on yellow, olive, terracotta, brown colors, lots of pillows and bright textiles. A hookah and a carpet would also be useful.

Country and Provence cannot be imagined without an abundance of wood and warmth, and an avant-garde loft cannot be imagined without decorative brick. Avoid red and very dark colors, as well as an abundance of things. A bench, a lamp, a small table and a few shelves will definitely be enough for you.

Beautiful ideas for decoration

Let's start with the arrangement of furniture: who said that the seats should be located exclusively opposite the railing? Seats along the railings will help save more free space: the view from them is no less beautiful than if you sit opposite.

Don’t be afraid to use fresh flowers outside: since you can relax in an open area only in the warm season, plants will also be comfortable here during the season. Install one large plant or many small ones.

Why not hang curtains on the loggia? Attach a crossbar with bright curtains between the walls: both decor and UV protection. By the way, it is not necessary to cover the entire roof with a canopy - use a compact umbrella to create spot shadows.

If there seem to be few ordinary flowers in pots, create a natural green canopy: fix the arch to the floor and wall, and let climbing plants along it. With fast-growing species, such as hops or ivy, you can create a dense green cover by mid-summer.

The lack of glazing is not a reason to store unnecessary rubbish on the balcony! Even on a simple loggia you can create a cozy space for relaxing on summer evenings.