Different Types Of Balconies

Adding a balcony to your home can provide additional outdoor space to relax, entertain, or enjoy views of the surrounding area.

When considering installing a balcony, it’s important to understand the different types available so you can choose the right option for your home’s design and needs.

Cantilevered Balcony

A cantilevered balcony is one that protrudes outward from a building without visible supports underneath. The balcony deck extends out past the exterior wall of the building in a manner that makes it appear as if it is floating in mid-air.

How Cantilevered Balconies Work

Cantilevered balconies are supported by internal beams, brackets, or other reinforced structures concealed within the building’s walls. These internal elements bear the weight of the balcony and hold it in place, allowing the deck to project outward without underneath supports. Steel, reinforced concrete, or heavy timber beams are commonly used.

Cantilevered balconies require robust structural planning from the onset of a building’s design phase. They cannot easily be added onto an existing structure. The protruding balcony deck applies shear stress to the connecting wall, so the building needs reinforced points to handle the loads.

The maximum depth of cantilevered balconies is usually limited to around 5-6 feet. Deeper projections are possible but involve complex structural engineering solutions.

Benefits of Cantilevered Balconies

• Sleek, modern aesthetic: Cantilevered balconies have a lightweight, floating appearance that creates a contemporary, minimalist look. They are especially popular in modern architectural styles.
• Unobstructed views: Without front columns or side walls, cantilevered balconies provide uninterrupted outward sight lines.
• Space efficiency: Cantilevered designs allow for balcony space without increasing the building’s footprint. This can help maximize outdoor area in urban locations with limited land space.
• Seamless integration: Well-designed cantilevered balconies can blend in seamlessly with a building’s facade. They look like an extension of the structure rather than an add-on.

Drawbacks of Cantilevered Balconies

• Higher cost: The complex structural engineering involved makes cantilevered balconies more expensive to construct than other types.
• Limited deck size: Cantilever designs restrict the feasible depth and weight capacity of the balcony.
• Pre-planning essential: Cantilevered balconies must be incorporated into original architectural plans. They can’t be added later without major structural modifications.
• Bounce/movement: Some cantilevered decks have minor bounce or vibration that can feel unsettling.

Key Considerations

• Intended use of balcony space
• Architectural style of home
• View clearance preferences
• Budget
• Weight load requirements
• Size and depth needs
• Structural capacity of building

Stacked or Supported Balcony

Stacked balconies, also known as balcony-on-pillars, feature a deck that is supported by vertical columns, posts, or pillars underneath. The pillars bear the weight of the balcony and transfer it down to the ground or foundation, minimizing direct load placed on the building.

How Stacked Balconies Work

Rather than cantilevering outwards, stacked balcony decks rest on top of narrow pillars made of concrete, steel, or wood. These support pillars extend down to ground level where their load is dispersed through concrete foundation pads set into the earth or anchored to the building.

In some cases, stacked balconies have minimal or no structural connection to the building walls. The pillars stabilization points provide sufficient support. If multiple balconies are layered on different floors, the pillars continue vertically between each deck.

Benefits of Stacked Balconies

• Straightforward construction: The pillar design is structurally simple compared to cantilevered options. Stacked balconies are relatively easy to build.
• Versatile sizing: Stacked balconies can be wider and deeper than typical cantilevered designs since pillars help share the load.
• Minimal building impact: With loads carried by the pillars, stacked balconies impose less stress on buildings compared to cantilevered options protruding from walls.
• Phased installation: Stacked balconies can be added incrementally to existing buildings when properly planned.
• Cost-effective: The straightforward pillar construction generally costs less than suspended or cantilevered balcony types.

Drawbacks of Stacked Balconies

• Disrupted views: Front and side pillars can obstruct outward sight lines from the balcony deck.
• Less integrated appearance: Stacked balconies often look like distinct add-ons rather than seamless extensions of a home.
• Weather exposure: Uncovered connections between pillars and the balcony deck can be impacted by precipitation if not properly flashed and sealed.
• Ease of access limitations: Stacked designs may not accommodate wheelchair ramps or staircases as easily as other types.

Key Considerations

• Number of planned levels
• Ideal balcony depth and width
• Pillar placement and sizing
• Architectural style of home
• Outdoor view preferences
• Overall cost budget
• Ease of adding to existing structures

Hung or Suspended Balcony

Hung balconies, also called suspended balconies, are supported beneath by rods, cables, beams, or bars that literally suspend the deck from the building face. The hanging supports visually appear to hold the weight of the balcony.

How Hung Balconies Work

Rods, cables, or brackets are mounted into the side of the building foundation or internal structural frame. The balcony platform is then fixed to and suspended from these support pieces at suspension points. The angle of the supports allows them both bear weight and keep the balcony deck stable.

Proper structural engineering is vital to ensure the supports are rated to handle the load and wind/seismic forces. Steel cables, stainless steel rods, and steel or aluminum brackets are common hanging support materials.

Benefits of Hung Balconies

• Visually striking: The suspended design gives a distinctive, floating appearance that adds modern architecture flair.
• Space efficiency: Hung balconies add usable outdoor square footage without increasing a building’s footprint.
• Adaptable installation: Hung balconies can be installed on many existing building sides with proper reinforcement.
• Minimal connections: Aside from the discrete hanging cables/rods, these balconies touch the building face in few places, reducing weather sealing challenges.
• Drainage efficiencies: Suspended designs allow unobstructed drainage off the balcony deck surface.

Drawbacks of Hung Balconies

• Higher cost: The engineered structural supports make hung balcony systems more expensive than other options.
• Limited deck dimensions: Hung mechanisms restrict the feasible depth and weight capacity of the balcony area.
• Safety concerns: Improper installation may lead to an increased risk of collapse. Strict quality control is imperative.
• Building impact: Mounting hanging hardware requires drilling into and reinforcing the building walls.
• Maintenance needs: Cables and rods require regular inspection and upkeep to spot signs of wear over time.

Key Considerations

• Home architectural style
• View preferences
• Weight loads
• Wind and seismic loads
• Installation feasibility on existing structures
• Added visual appeal value
• Ongoing safety inspections and maintenance

Juliet Balcony

Juliet balconies, also known as false balconies or French balconies, feature a non-accessible railing installed immediately beyond a set of doors or windows to create the illusion of a full balcony. Unlike other types, these shallow false balconies lack functional deck space.

Features of Juliet Balconies

Juliet balconies consist of metal or stone railings positioned directly in front of large glass doors or windows on upper building levels. The railing provides the visual appearance of an actual balcony but does not project far enough to allow occupants to walk onto a deck or platform area.

Many Juliet balconies use decorative wrought iron railings to enhance curb appeal. They add architectural interest without requiring significant structural modifications or outdoor floor space. Doors typically open inward to avoid railing conflicts.

Benefits of Juliet Balconies

• Quick installation: Juliet balconies can easily mount onto existing window frames or doors without major building modifications.
• Low cost: The absence of a deck makes these simple balconies very affordable compared to other designs.
• Decorative appeal: Ornate metalwork and stonework can make an attractive addition to building exteriors.
• Flexible sizing: From narrow rails to full-width spans, Juliet styles accommodate flexible lengths.
• Minimal outdoor space needed: Only a narrow projection is required since there is no deck area.

Drawbacks of Juliet Balconies

• Not safely usable: The very limited depth does not allow occupancy or furniture placement.
• Limited functionality: Juliet balconies offer fewer practical applications compared to other deeper deck types.
• Inward-open doors: Out-swinging doors could collide with railings, requiring interior-opening configurations.
• Limited weather protection: Without an overhead covering, Juliet balconies leave doors more exposed to the elements.

Key Considerations

• Intended application (decorative or functional)
• Window and door configurations
• Architectural style
• Protection from weather elements
• Easy installation on existing buildings
• Budget

Mezzanine Balcony

A mezzanine balcony refers to an indoor half-floor balcony that looks out over a high-ceiling room below. Sometimes called an interior or loft balcony, this style turns an upper section of a large interior volume into a private balcony unto itself.

Features of Mezzanine Balconies

Mezzanine balconies can be built within large open spaces in homes, warehouses, theaters, atriums, and more. The balcony deck projects from a partial interior wall or loft-like floor inserted between the existing floor and ceiling levels. Railings line the protruding edge to prevent falls.

Some mezzanine balconies have storage or living spaces constructed behind them on the upper level. Others consist only of the protruding overlook deck and open space behind it. Full stair access allows occupants to utilize the balcony vantage point.

Benefits of Mezzanine Balconies

• Multi-level spaces: Adds a floating level to take advantage of building height in single-story rooms.
• Outlook posts: Provides an overhead indoor vantage point looking out over lower areas.
• Privacy: Seclusion from lower-level hustle while still being connected to it.
• Versatile installations: Can be retrofitted into many existing buildings with sufficient height.
• Aesthetic appeal: The multi-tiered appeal lend a modern, lofty ambiance.

Drawbacks of Mezzanine Balconies

• Lower space division: Impedes open sight lines in some rooms by segmenting interior volume.
• Limited exterior access: Functions distinctly from outdoor balconies that connect inside to outside.
• Extra fall risks: Safety railings are essential given the overlook position and threat of falls from height.
• Building adaptations needed: Existing structures may require stairs, new stud walls, and other major additions to support mezzanine balconies.

Key Considerations

• Desired viewing perspectives and privacy preferences
• Building floorplan layouts
• Structural capacity to handle second level
• Staircase placement logistics
• Safety railing needs
• Aesthetic and functionality goals

Loggia Balcony

Loggia balconies are covered, roofed outdoor balconies formed by extending a building out past an exterior wall and topping it with its own separate roof. This creates a covered outdoor space that still feels connected to the indoors.

Features of Loggia Balconies

Loggias are constructed by supporting a solid roof off an extended section of floor space. Columns or pillars hold up the covered roof, leaving the front and sides open for visibility. Loggias can be designed as part of new constructions or added to existing buildings.

The covered configuration makes loggia balconies ideal for introducing outdoor living space in rainy climates. Their room-like shape with enclosed sides also helps block wind, while openings still allow fresh air circulation.

Benefits of Loggia Balconies

• Weather protection: The overhead roof shields the loggia space from sun, rain, and other elements.
• Outdoor/indoor transitional space: Partially enclosed to blur lines between inside and outside.
• Design flexibility: Loggias allow variability in size, shape, placement, and materials.
• Visual connection maintained: Open sides keep surrounding views unblocked.

Drawbacks of Loggia Balconies

• Higher costs: Constructing the roof and supports makes loggias more expensive than uncovered decks.
• Darker interior: Overhead roofs can limit natural light access into the loggia itself.
• Professional expertise needed: Loggias require greater architectural and structural engineering input.
• Moisture control: Proper drainage and waterproofing are needed to avoid leaks and rot.

Key Considerations

• Local climate patterns
• Intended functional applications
• Roof design and materiality
• Moisture protection strategies
• Impact on views and natural light
• Structural supports
• Overall budget

FAQs

What is the cheapest type of balcony to build?

Juliet balconies are generally the most affordable, as they require minimal materials and construction work to install decorative railings over windows. They enhance aesthetics without requiring creation of deck space.

Which balcony type is easiest to add to an existing home?

Juliet, stacked, and hung balconies can often be retrofitted onto existing homes, depending on structural abilities to handle loads. Cantilevered balconies must be engineered into original building plans.

How far can a balcony extend from a building?

Cantilevered balconies typically only extend 1.5-1.8 meters (5-6 feet) maximum without requiring complex structural solutions. Stacked and other supported styles can allow further reach from the building face.

Do all balconies need planning permission?

Adding any type of external balcony will require building permits and potentially planning permission. Building codes dictate structural requirements, allowances, and aesthetic guidelines.

Which balcony styles offer weather protection?

Loggia balconies provide the most weather protection with their enclosed roof system sheltering the space below. Mezzanine and other interior balconies also avoid exposure to the elements.

Conclusion

The balcony type that best suits your home depends on weighing factors like aesthetic appeal, functionality, cost, structural considerations, design style, and installation feasibility.

Cantilevered and stacked balconies are best for open sight lines, while hung and suspended options create unique architectural flair. For basic decorative enhancement, Juliet balconies offer a budget-friendly choice. Loggias and mezzanine balconies suit specific covered or overlooking applications.

Carefully assessing the pros, cons, and requirements of each balcony category in relation to your property can clarify the ideal choice. Choosing the balcony design aligned with both your building’s structural capacity and your personal preferences will help ensure your satisfaction long-term.