Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Cleveland, AL

There are several methods of supporting a balcony. Very small balconies, such as Juliet balconies that don't include any usable floor space and don't need to support human weight, may simply require supporting bolts drilled into the home's structure. Cantilevering is a method that requires no additional exterior supports, and larger balconies typically need posts and footings to carry the weight from below.

Deck skirting shouldn’t touch the ground, especially if you have a wood deck, which is vulnerable to moisture. Ideally, you should leave at least 3/4 of an inch of space between the deck skirting and the ground for more ventilation. Pros also recommend that you incorporate about 1 square foot of space for ventilation for the underside of the deck to every 150 square feet of decking. Proper ventilation prevents mold growth and rot that can damage your deck.

Depending on how you design your balcony is the most essential factor when talking about how much your home's balcony can hold. The typical weight a balcony can support ranges between 50 and 100 pounds per square foot. However, it's possible to exceed those limitations with careful planning by a structural engineer.

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.