Designing Durable Balconies: Weather, Fire, Structure

Balcony design in mixed-use and multi-family projects can be a challenge. Cantilevered balconies may be the most vulnerable element of the building in that they are exposed to weather and have limited structural redundancy. Not only do they require careful design and detailing to ensure safety and durability, they must also be verified to ensure that construction meets the requirements in the design documents. Adding complexity, fire-resistance requirements of balconies are often misunderstood. In this presentation, we’ll discuss balcony detailing practices for greater resilience, as well as code requirements that address fire, structure, and protection from moisture.

By the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:

• Discuss changes made to the 2018 IBC as a result of the balcony collapse in Berkeley, California.
• Highlight detailing options and best practices to maximize the long-term durability of balcony construction.
• Review structural design considerations for balconies and discuss how to increase redundancy.
• Explain the fire-rating requirements for balconies in common building types.

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