Renovating an old balcony is one of the most effective ways to breathe new life into a home. Whether it’s a concrete apartment balcony that’s showing its age or a timber terrace in need of waterproofing, a modern upgrade can transform it into a valuable extension of your living space. From structural repairs to stylish finishes, the process requires thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of the costs involved in Australia.
Start with a proper inspection
Before you imagine new tiles, benches or lights, get the balcony professionally inspected. Common hidden problems are timber rot, corroded structural brackets, water leaks through membranes, and rusted reinforcement in concrete. If you live in a strata title (apartment), check whether your balcony is common property; the owners’ corporation may be responsible for repairs and will likely require a report. In NSW, for example, strata rules set out responsibilities for maintenance and repairs; similar rules apply in other states.
Why inspection matters: fixing underlying structural or waterproofing faults later is always far more expensive than doing them up front.
Plan the renovation: style, use and layout
Decide how you want to use the space. Options include:
- Small dining/coffee area
- Outdoor lounge with weatherproof sofa
- Container garden and vertical planting
- Workout/stretching zone
- Combination (folding furniture + planters)
Measure the balcony area and sketch a layout. Consider circulation space (leave at least 600–750mm clearance in front of a seat or table), and orient furniture to protect from prevailing winds or sun.
Structural & waterproofing works are the non-negotiable essentials
A modern balcony must be safe and dry. Typical essential works:
- Repair or replace corroded steel fixings and balustrades.
- Patch and treat concrete spalling; expose and treat reinforcement if needed.
- Remove old finishes and reapply a professionally installed waterproof membrane (liquid or sheet systems) with correct falls to drains.
Waterproofing is one of the most important line items: in Australia, waterproofing for balconies commonly ranges widely depending on method and condition, but many trades list prices from around $40–$150 per m², with complexity, access and remediation work pushing costs higher.
Flooring and finishes
Flooring choices affect cost and durability:
- Tiles (porcelain/ceramic) — popular for a clean look; require a good waterproofing and tile adhesive system.
- Decking (timber or composite) — adds warmth; treated timber is cheaper, hardwood and composite cost more. Decking pricing guides in Australia show treated pine can be very economical, while composite is pricier per m².
- Outdoor pavers or concrete overlays — robust and low maintenance.
Tip: For an elevated timber deck over a waterproof membrane, ensure battens and spacing are designed to allow ventilation and access to the membrane for future checks.
Balustrades, screens & privacy
Modern balustrade options include frameless glass, metal pickets, perforated screens and timber slats. Glass offers a contemporary look and uninterrupted views but comes at a higher cost and must comply with strict height and wind-load regulations.
For extra privacy or sun control, homeowners often add external screens, sliding panels, or plantation shutters designed for outdoor use. These shutters provide adjustable airflow, shade and a clean architectural look — making them a stylish way to modernise older balconies while improving comfort.
Electrical, lighting & extras
Add weatherproof lighting, outdoor power points and, if you want, outdoor heating. Make sure any electrical work is performed by a licensed electrician to Australian standards, and, in strata properties, obtain approvals before adding power points or lighting to common walls or ceilings.
Furniture, plants and soft landscaping
Don’t forget the finishing touches: weatherproof furniture, pots with appropriate root depth, vertical planters, and compact irrigation if needed. Lightweight pots and furniture are advisable on older structures unless a structural engineer confirms load capacity.
Typical cost breakdowns in Australia
Costs vary by city, access, complexity, and balcony size. Here are indicative ranges:
- Basic refresh (cosmetic only) — cleaning, paint, new outdoor furniture, simple decking mats: AUD 1,000–6,000.
- Mid-range renovation — waterproofing, new floor finish (tiles or composite decking), new balustrade, basic electrical/lighting: AUD 6,000–25,000.
- Full structural remediation + luxury fitout — structural repair, full membrane replacement, premium tiles or hardwood decking, glass balustrades, integrated lighting/heating and custom cabinetry: AUD 25,000–100,000+ for complex or high-rise jobs. Large strata-wide balcony repairs can escalate significantly.
As a broader guide, per-square-metre construction costs for outdoor living areas often mirror general renovation rates in Australia, which commonly fall between ~AUD 1,800–4,000 per m² depending on city and project scope.
Permits, strata approvals and legalities
- Strata/owners corporation: Balconies are often common property. Repairs and upgrades usually require owners’ corporation approval, and major works may require a special resolution.
- Council permits: If you’re altering the structure or façade (e.g., replacing balustrades on a heritage-listed building), council approval or building certifier sign-off may be required. This is especially relevant for heritage zones in cities like Sydney.
How to save money without cutting safety
- Keep the layout the same — moving doors or drains multiplies costs.
- Choose modular items — off-the-shelf screens and balustrades cost less than custom fabrication.
- Repair rather than replace — if an engineer says it’s safe.
- Request itemised quotes — compare waterproofing, tiling, labour, balustrade and electrical as separate line items.
- Use durable finishes — reduces long-term maintenance costs.
Value and return on investment
A well-renovated balcony significantly boosts appeal and can lift the perceived value of apartments in major Australian cities. Buyers and renters commonly prioritise usable outdoor space. A modern balcony also differentiates older dwellings from newer developments, making your property more competitive.
Final checklist before you start
- Book a professional inspection (builder or structural engineer).
- Confirm strata responsibilities and gain written approvals.
- Check for heritage restrictions if your building falls within a conservation area or listing.
- Obtain any required council or certifier permits.
- Get at least three itemised quotes.
- Allow a 15–25% contingency for hidden issues.
Conclusion
Renovating a balcony in Australia can range from AUD 1,000 for a cosmetic facelift to tens of thousands for full structural remediation and high-end finishes. Waterproofing and structural integrity are the most important factors. Whether you’re modernising a standard apartment balcony or navigating strict guidelines such as those involved in Heritage Restorations and Renovations in Sydney, proper planning ensures safety, compliance and long-term value.
