Everyone wants to make their apartment the coziest and most comfortable. Insulating a balcony is one of the ways in which you can achieve this goal.
How to insulate a balcony from the inside? What is this process? Let's answer these questions. The essence of insulation is the creation of a light and warm wall around the perimeter of the balcony (external), which will be impermeable to the wind, waterproof and durable.
Such a wall should consist of several layers. The outer layer has a protective and decorative function. The middle layer is the insulation itself, and the inner layer performs the same functions as the outer one.
Best used for the outer layer of siding. You can also use a plastic "lining", most importantly, when buying, pay attention to the suitability of plastic for outdoor conditions. MDF panels are suitable for the inner layer. As for the insulation itself, most often it is polystyrene foam (polystyrene foam).
An alternative to polystyrene can be polyurethane foam (in another way, it is also called "mounting foam"). The difference between them lies in the reaction to the impact of fire. Styrofoam, unlike polyurethane foam, is very combustible. Therefore, you need to be careful with him.
How to insulate a balcony yourself? Naturally, first you need to take out everything that is there from the balcony.
If the walls are lined with something, then the lining must be dismantled. Make sure that all elements of the balcony are in good condition (no damage, the fence is reliable).
After that, you can start mounting the frame. We will make a double frame. For this, a set of wooden beams and galvanized profiles (curved) will be used. The frame will be attached to the balcony railing. Fasteners will be carried out using wire clamps or screws. If you need to attach to a slab or walls, then use self-tightening anchors.
Let's move on the outside. It is necessary to make an outer layer (for example, from siding). Then lay the insulation, and with it the finishing layer (inner). If suddenly you use mineral-like heaters, then be sure to lay a vapor barrier. It is carried out with a special film. The film is different, but differs in the degree of permeability for the smallest particles of water. Note! These characteristics are indicated on the film itself. Find the side with the highest water permeability. It is she who needs to be turned in the direction where the heater is located. Thus, the moisture that got into the insulation will easily evaporate.
If you decide to insulate the balcony with foam, then all the joints formed between the sheets, and the seams where the sheets adjoin the slab and walls, will need to be carefully filled with mounting foam.
In the event that your neighbors above and below are notyou also decided to insulate the balcony, you will also have to insulate the floor with the ceiling. The process for the floor and ceiling is the same as for the walls.
And finally: do not hesitate to ask for help from specialists or just from knowledgeable people, if you have already decided to insulate the balcony on your own. Don't forget to use reliable mounts that are not worth saving on.
As for the safety of passers-by, for the duration of your "labor activity" you can protect the area under the balcony in case any tools or materials fall. Drive in the pegs and pull the rope. This will be enough to eliminate the risk of injuring someone.
