balconys

A balcony is an exterior platform that projects from a building wall and provides a small outdoor space accessible from an interior room by a door or window. It is typically enclosed by a railing or balustrade and supported by cantilevered members or by posts attached to the wall. Balconies differ from terraces or porches in that they do not occupy ground level and are not a fully enclosed room.

Materials for balconies vary with climate and construction method, including reinforced concrete, steel, timber, and aluminum. Modern balconies incorporate waterproof membranes, drainage, and weather protection. Design must account for structural loads, weather exposure, and integration with the facade and insulation, as well as maintenance needs.

Safety and building codes regulate balcony construction. Railings meet height and baluster spacing requirements to prevent falls, and floors are designed to carry expected live loads. Inspections often address connections, corrosion, and water intrusion, and maintenance may involve sealing, repainting, and replacing damaged components.

Variants include Juliet balconies, which feature a decorative railing at a window or door without a usable floor, and French balconies, which use a full railing along a large opening. Balconies contribute to outdoor access and ventilation and are common in urban architecture, yet they require careful design to ensure safety, durability, and energy performance.