Weathering gap between balcony and wall

[Michael Cosgrove]

Hi Folks

I am a London plumber who has some training in weathering with lead ...enough to know that did not really want to get involved specially since there seems plenty of roofers around.

However I was recently called out due to a small leak into a flat below from my customers balcony. The most likely cause would seem to be the 'weathering' of the gap between her balcony and wall - see image attached.

I admit to being a bit hesitant to seal this with some sort of roofing sealant for fear of making a more professional subsequent job more difficult ie use of a more specific sealant. So I thought some sort of self adhesive flashing that could be more easily removed might be better?

Note I am not of course sure, this gap is the problem but attempting a quick fix such as the above, before calling in a specialist does seem appropriate.

Suggestions or comments welcome

 

[vinn]

Before any tiling, the surface should have been prepped & lined with a one piece membrane that would lap up the wall and be covered by the cover flashing.
The tiles would have been laid to falls away from the wall.
Maybe thats how it was done but I cant tell from the photo? Whats the grey stuff between the cover flashing & the tile?
Moisture will often enter from balconies and patios through the door threshold which can be the weakest point in the waterproofing. But if there's a step-up then it would suggest that the membrane is damaged or incorrectly fitted.
A temporary repair is all well & good but you dont know what to make the repair on unless you know the cause. You could stick say Flashband all along the wall balcony junction but it will leave bitumen stains.

Carefully check, from below if possible, that the balcony or any supports have not moved or deteriorated - any signs of damage or cracks then its Structural Engineer time.

 

[Michael Cosgrove]

Thanks Vinn.

Not sure what the grey stuff is and off site now so can't check. From what I recollect I think it was some sort of applied covering as opposed to a lining.

Will try flashband when go back. Will also apply to underside of door which opens directly out onto balony (as opposed to via a step up/down) and which is just down from perceived leak.

Don't have unimpeded access to the underside of balcony unless I open up the flats ceiling below. If this does'nt work then I think I will leave it to roofer to progress.

Slainte

 

[vinn]

Its not really a job for a roofer its more in a tileman's way of work. Or is this a case of a kind of patio on a flat roof?

Your probably aware of what happened on a projecting balcony last June. If the balcony is indeed cantilevered out then its best left to a specialist as there's no telling how long water has been penetrating.

There's lots of work and good money in lead work - proper lead bossing and lead burning (welding) that is. Most who claim the skill are untrained lead bashers.
Just saying but contact me if you need any advice in the building game.

Slainte