question about balcony replacements

[steve2470]

Hi all, I asked a question here months ago, and got an outstanding set of answers. So, I'm baaaack

Here's the question, which I admit up front is not a good one, because it lacks details: How often do you need to replace balconies on buildings ? Let me describe the kind of balcony and building I'm talking about.

On our condo buildings, everyone has a private balcony. It is not supported by girders or rails or anything visible. The balcony (if that's the correct word) only juts out about 2 feet from the side of the building, and my particular balcony has a cover and a screen enclosure. My guess is the floor of the balcony is concrete block.

I'm asking because the HOA has a policy of replacing the balconies every so often, which I agree with. Last year, they replaced my neighbor's. The contractor told me last year that there was a schedule of replacing so many balconies a year until they were all replaced. Our buildings are now 31 years old. So far this year, there's been no hints of anyone replacing balconies.

Replacing or at least thoroughly repairing every 30 years sounds reasonable, correct ? AFAICT there is nothing wrong with my balcony, but hey, I'm no contractor. Thank you in advance, as always!

[rusty quoin]

1. It sounds like your balconies are cantilevered.

If I remember right, the beams must be 3 parts inside the building for every 1 part hanging out. Apart from that, I cannot and will not suggest anything else, except that if it seems to be moving over time, like dipping downwards, I would question it.

[steve2470]

4. thank you! :) nt

[jeff47]

2. Assuming they were properly built and maintained (such as regular painting)

and nothing like termites have weakened the balconies, then the structure that holds up the balcony should be good for the life of the building.

If they were not painted regularly, or got weakened by termites/carpenter ants, or were not originally built well, then they may need replacement.

The decking surface (what you walk on) is going to need occasional repairs or replacement. How frequent depends on what it is made of, how it is finished and your climate.

[steve2470]

3. I'm in Florida, so I'm assuming the heat and humidity erode most building materials ?

The decking surface, for now, is covered by carpet, but I don't detect any cracks so far. Thank you for your answer!