How to Attach a Balcony to a Room: Tips from the Pros

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There are several options for balcony arrangement: leaving it open, installing glass panels, or making it an extension of the room. Let's look at the last option with the help of a construction company expert: it turns out not all is as simple as it seems

Have you decided to increase the room area by using the balcony, but don't know how to do it? The expert from construction company «Good» explained the nuances of re-planning.

Vladislav Kosichkin, Expert, Development Director at construction company «Good»

When is it possible to attach a balcony?

Re-planning can only be approved if you are ready to install transparent French doors or sliding doors between the room and the balcony — these are also called «French windows». These doors provide insulation and retain heat without increasing the load on the heating system.

In monolithic buildings, it's easier to attach a balcony: the facade walls in these buildings are non-load-bearing, so the opening can be expanded in height and width.

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Design: Ilya and Eugenia Emenyany

There are two methods of demolition:

Method 1: Remove the window sill space and part of the exterior wall

You will have to agree to move the radiator to the balcony and increase its power. This solution helps eliminate cold air infiltration and condensation on windows.

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Design: Serge Makhov

Method 2: Remove part of the exterior wall

This is an ideal solution for panel house residents, where the wall between the room and the balcony is usually load-bearing. In this case, a portion of the window sill space remains, which is often used as a bar counter or worktop.

Moving the radiator is not necessary in this case, but you will need to install an electric heated floor or place an electric convector under the glazing.

Design: A&O Interior Design

How to Insulate a Balcony?

Vapor barrier film helps insulate walls, ceiling, and floor.
Only electric heated floors can be installed: water-based floors are risky as they may flood neighbors below. By the way, if the floor is poorly insulated, condensation or ice can form on the ceiling of neighbors below.
Heaters — another legal option for balcony heating. These can be oil-filled, convector, or infrared.
Install double-glazed units and five-chamber PVC profiles — most of the air infiltration usually comes through the glazing.