Glass Balcony Enclosure

A folding system stacks the panels to one side and opens the balcony completely; it is the right choice for those who want an open balcony in summer, but the cost rises as the number of panels increases. A sliding system slides the panels in front of one another, never opens completely, but is more economical and on narrow balconies there is no problem of panels swinging inwards. On high floors with a lot of wind, the sealing of a sliding system can be slightly weaker; tell the installer which way the balcony faces.

A single-glazed enclosure shuts out wind and rain but does not hold heat; the balcony stays cold in winter. A double-glazed system uses an insulated glass unit and keeps the balcony at a temperature close to the room; it suits those who want to use it as a sitting area. The profiles are thicker, the panels heavier and the price noticeably higher. If you are enclosing the balcony only to protect it from rain, single glazing is enough.

A municipal permit is generally not required; however, because the building's exterior appearance counts as a common area, a decision of the owners' meeting or the approval of the site management is usually essential. Many complexes specify a single profile colour and system type; installations that do not comply can be ordered removed. Getting written approval from the management before installation is the safest route. In a detached house these restrictions do not apply.

The cause is usually dust and sand collecting in the bottom rail, or worn wheels. Sweeping the rail and wiping it with a damp cloth and spraying a silicone-based lubricant on the wheels is usually enough. If a panel catches in the rail, the levelling may have shifted or a wheel may be broken; in that case call the installer who fitted it. Brush seals are renewed every few years; they are what provide the sealing.