Are You Planning to Add a Balcony in Your Home? Here’s What You Should Consider
It’s almost every homeowner’s dream to have a balcony. This exterior elevated element doesn’t only add some extra space in the house, but it also adds a luxurious feel to space. Just imagine waking up and drinking coffee in your balcony.
But adding a balcony in a finished home is not an easy task. So if you’re planning on this as your next project, here are some of the things that you should consider:
The Materials
Most balconies are made from wood, cement, vinyl, or wood composite. Your choice of material should be based on what your existing home’s materials are so the balcony easily blends in with the rest of the house.
Cement is a popular choice because of how it can hold up to the elements, but some prefer wood because it offers that relaxing ambiance that a lot of people are looking for.
Accessibility
Building a balcony is more than just tearing down a wall and creating an exterior elevated element where you can look at your views outside. You also need to pick a spot in your house where you can easily build a doorway and access point from the room where you choose to connect your balcony too.
You also need to think about how the balcony will affect the overall look of your home and it should be placed in a convenient spot that doesn’t put a dent on your current living arrangement.
Size
Most experts would recommend building an exterior elevated element that extends at least four feet outwards because it can already accommodate two to three people and maybe some chairs for lounging. Consult your contractor on the best size for your balcony considering your house, your need for that extended living space, and of course, your budget.
Balustrade
Your balustrade will be the focal point of your balcony’s aesthetics. Depending on the look that you’re going for or the current theme of your house, you can choose from metal, wood, vinyl, concrete, and glass panel railings. You can also choose from balustrades that form a single straight line, semi-circle, and angular line.
Cost
A typical balcony will cost you between $15 and $35 per square foot. This cost will depend mainly on your choice of materials, the cost of labor, the style that you want, and of course, the height and size of your balcony.
But if you’re willing to make that investment, you can guarantee a good return value once you already put your home in the market.
Of course, there are permits. Any exterior elevated element will need permits before you can start construction, especially if you’re building a second-story balcony where you need to make sure that the added structure is safe and sturdy.
This is when it matters to work with a contractor with the appropriate license and credentials, so you can make this part easier and move on with your project.
Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon
