Immediately adjacent to the glulam post and beam display you can see a display of one of the several potential balcony systems. While we typically recommend this use of “bolt on” balconies where the structure of the balcony is completely separate to that of the main building, it is common for balconies to exist over a habitable space. This balcony seeks to demonstrate this scenario and assumes that the balcony surface cannot be set down from the other areas as this is commonly the case with massive timber construction. In this section we will discuss each of the elements of this balcony in detail.

You may notice that the threshold of the balcony is raised. This is required where the balcony cannot be set down as it allows for effective separation of the indoor and outdoor environments and mitigates the risk of flooding through this interface. To achieve this height separation, we have constructed a 90mm high hob out of two treated pine studs. With this installed we have utilised Multipanel, a proprietary waterproofing system which is highly suitable to timber projects and is currently being specified throughout the industry. This light weight polyurethane board is produced in a number of sizes and can be machined to include a fall as per your design, avoiding the need for graded battens or screeds. With each board easily cut to size they are then glued together with a polyurethane compound, providing a completely water tight membrane. Here you can see that Multipanel completely lines the hob and floor of the balcony, with treated pine battens and a hardwood deck providing a permeable walking surface. The Multipanel waterproof membrane then falls toward the waste point, located in the front left-hand corner of the balcony. Note also the overflow chute in this location, allow the water to flow out of the balcony if this waste were to become clogged.

Balustrades vary substantially in material and design, however in this display we have shown how you can build a solid balustrade as is common in in-set balconies. This element is fully exposed to the weather, and as such requires a similar treatment to the façades seen at ground floor. Here you can see that the balustrade has been constructed out of H3 treated pine, a treatment level suitable for use outside and above ground. Even though this element isn’t loadbearing, it is located on the façade of the project, and as such the timber must be fire protected to a specified FRL. For the purpose of this display we have assumed that the balcony is located on the boundary of the property, and as such the element attracts an FRL of 90/90/90. On this fire rated lining you can see a vapour permeable membrane, a ventilated cavity, and finally the façade finish. Note the flashing at the interface between this balustrade system and the Multipanel, ensuring that any moisture within the system simply runs onto the waterproofed balcony system.

Other systems displayed in this balcony area include fire protected structural timber both to your left and on the ceiling, and the continuation of the tie down rod first observed downstairs.

The next station on this audio guide is located in the stair core on the mid-level landing. Feel free to take some time to review the details on this level and move on when you’re ready.