The outdoor living spaces or outside balcony of any apartment is one of the best places to witness the perfect sunrise or sunset. Most balconies are nestled about ten to fifteen feet in the air and overlook a property. The balcony is particularly appealing because of its outdoor seating, providing a view across a few feet of the apartment complex and into the city. When it rains, snows, or is a sunny day – the balcony creates one of the most beautiful landscape views.

However, over time balconies can develop stains, cracks, or chips particularly in the area that receives the most foot traffic. This deterioration is not only ugly, but it may also be dangerous, therefore it is important to repair concrete steps, balconies, or stairways before they deteriorate any further. Make your balcony stronger and safer. And if you are looking for balcony repair in San Diego or balcony replacement services in San Diego, McMillin Contracting Services is the perfect company for you.

Here is a Guide That Explains The Different Steps To Take While Repairing a Balcony

1. Inspect and Prepare the Damaged Area
Before you begin the repairing process, make sure that the damaged area is clean and clear of debris. Next, sweep the area clear of broken chips and scrub up the damaged area with a wet, wire brush. Always consider the size of the crack while fixing concrete surfaces.

2. Work Your Way Up from the Corner
While fixing the chipped or broken balcony, begin from the corners and build from there to ensure that the patch stays in place.

3. Combine the Materials
The different types of materials used to repair concrete surfaces depend on the intent and extent of the chips and cracks on the balcony surface. While repairing small areas with cracks and chips a concrete patching compound may be all that is required to repair the surface. Whereas, some quick-setting cement may be required for bigger cracks, holes, or structural damages.

4. Begin the Application Process
To begin, wet the area with water, and then apply a layer of the concrete repair material with a trowel. Moving on, use a square-head shovel to pour the concrete mix over the holes or structurally damaged areas. Then level out the filled holes using a trowel. Try using two separate trowels: one for leaning and the other for working the concrete materials.

5. Finish the Job
Lastly, complete the process by applying a second coat as needed. Make sure that the concrete material has set in, is smooth, and has a finished look. Use a masonry brush to brush the surface, and remember to shape the sharp edges.

6. Let It Dry Out
Once all of the above steps are complete, allow the repaired surface and concrete material to dry out. This can take up to 24 hours or more.

Now that you have learned the steps to fix a concrete balcony surface, let’s learn about some signs of balcony damage, and how to fix them.

Here are some telltale indications of balcony damage:

• Stains on the interiors and exterior of balconies or decks
• Leaks from the windows, doors, or side rails
• Wood swelling that makes it difficult to open and close windows or doors
• Damaged or peeled off paint in the corners
• Soft, splitting, and deteriorating wood
• Weak links created between balcony pillars and rails

To avoid hospital visits and extra costs, get started on the balcony repair, follow the steps above to avoid any accidents. If you’re looking for balcony repair or balcony replacement services, it’s best to hire a general contractor to do the job.

What Does a General Contractor Do?

There isn’t much of a difference between a builder and a general contractor. A builder is referred to as a general contractor and is in charge of completing renovation projects on schedule. This individual can hire or lease a subcontractor to handle specific tasks of the project, such as plumbing, flooring, or electrical. The general contractor would thereafter be in charge of the subcontractor. All final tasks are ultimately the responsibility of the general contractor.

Get the Job Done Right

Making repairs or upgrades to apartment units is a big investment, so hire a professional contractor to do the job. You want to avoid future problems, so make sure that the apartment remodeling work is done right the first time.

Hire the right contractor for the job, and be sure to double-check that the contractor has all the required documents and skills to complete the job. Here’s a checklist to follow while hiring a general contractor:

• Professional experience 
• Reliable licenses and documents
• Good reviews
• Responsive customer service
• Flexible scheduling 
• Insurance 
• And more!

Why Should You Choose McMillin Contracting Services?

We, at McMillin, are always happy to assist you with apartment remodeling projects, balcony repair, balcony replacements, and much more. Our team consists of qualified and certified experts that are committed to assisting you and will help in transforming apartments into dream homes.