Terraces and balconies are some of the most-used outdoor spaces in Maltese homes — and some of the most demanding areas to waterproof properly. Between railings, drains, tiled finishes and direct exposure to sun and rain, there are far more detail points than on a simple flat roof.
Why Terraces & Balconies Need Special Attention
- Railing and post fixings: every fixing point that penetrates the surface is a potential entry point for water
- Tiled or finished surfaces: waterproofing sits beneath the finish, so it has to be right before tiling begins
- Drainage falls: balconies need correctly graded falls toward drains or edges to avoid water sitting against door thresholds
- Door thresholds: a common weak point where water can track back into the living space if not detailed correctly
- Direct exposure: full sun and rain exposure with no roof overhang above
What a Proper Terrace or Balcony Waterproofing Job Involves
- Assessing and correcting the fall/drainage gradient where needed
- Fully sealing around all railing posts, drains and door thresholds before any waterproofing goes down
- Applying a flexible, seamless liquid membrane that can move with the structure
- Reinforcing detailing at every upstand, corner and penetration
- Allowing the membrane to cure fully before tiling or finishing over it
Skipping any of these steps is one of the most common causes of leaks into the room below a terrace or balcony — and one of the most disruptive to fix once tiling is already down.
Renovating an Existing Terrace?
If you’re re-tiling an older terrace or balcony, it’s worth having the waterproofing beneath inspected first. Reusing a failed or aged membrane under new tiles just delays the problem — and makes it more expensive to fix later once the new finish is in place.
Why Choose Shaw Contractors
We handle waterproofing and finishing for terraces and balconies across Malta as a single, coordinated job — so the waterproofing, falls and finish all work together properly. See our complete guide to liquid membrane waterproofing for more on how the system works.
Planning a terrace or balcony project? Contact Shaw Contractors for a free site visit and quote.
