How to Fix a Leaking Balcony – The Right Way

Balcony Leak Detection using Thermal Camera

Step 2: Choosing the Right Repair Method

Once the problem is diagnosed correctly, the right fix depends on the severity of the damage.

Option 1: Epoxy Sealing (Only for Minor Leaks)

If the leak is caught early and the waterproofing membrane is still intact, degrouting and applying an epoxy-based balcony seal might be the solution.

Epoxy is far superior to regular grout or sealants—it’s waterproof, durable, and resistant to moisture penetration. Not all tilers can work with epoxy—it’s tricky to apply, so choose a specialist.

A balcony seal will hold only if the waterproofing layer underneath is still intact—otherwise, the leak will return.

🔹 Many homeowners choose this option first as a cost-effective attempt to fix the problem before going down the path of a full retile. If the leak persists, it’s a sign that a more extensive repair is needed.

Option 2: Full Tile Removal & Retile

If the balcony is severely compromised—think water leaking into the ceiling below, major cracks, or widespread tile popping—then a full removal is the only reliable fix.

How it works:

1️⃣ Demolition, jackhammering, and tile removal

2️⃣ Surface grinding to prepare for waterproofing

3️⃣ Applying two coats of waterproofing membrane (we recommend two coats for maximum protection)

4️⃣ Screeding where required to correct slope and drainage

5️⃣ Tiling with precision cuts, ensuring long-term durability

6️⃣ Epoxy grout & sealing (Epoxy takes longer to grout than cement but offers far superior waterproofing)

🔹 If balustrades sit on top of the tiles, they need to be removed and arranged for reinstallation after tiling.

🔹 In some cases, you will need to arrange scaffolding for workers to access and work on the balcony edges safely.

Option 3: Tiling Over Existing Tiles

For homeowners looking to save on demolition costs, tiling over the existing tiles may be an option.

How it works:

1️⃣ Grinding and priming the existing tiles to create a rough surface for bonding.

2️⃣ Applying waterproofing over the top to prevent future water ingress.

3️⃣ Retiling

4️⃣ Epoxy grout & sealing

🔹 This method is only viable if there is confidence that there is no structural damage underneath. If there’s any movement or water trapped below, this approach won’t work and a full removal will be needed.

Step 3: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

🚫 Trap #1: Falling for ‘Quick Fix’ Solutions

• Any repair that doesn’t involve checking waterproofing is a waste of money.
• Beware of ‘miracle’ products from Bunnings that claim to fix leaks with a spray or paint-on coating.
• If your tiles are loose or water is pooling, sealing won’t help – it just traps moisture underneath, making things worse.

🚫 Trap #2: Hiring a General Tiler Instead of a Wet Area Specialist

• Not all tilers work with wet areas like balconies and showers. Whether it’s a leaking shower or a balcony, our team reliable, long-lasting repairs for wet areas.
• Balconies require additional expertise due to exposure to weather and movement.
• Choose someone with balcony repair experience, not just someone who lays tiles.

🚫 Trap #3: No Warranty, No Licensing, No Accountability

• A reputable balcony repair specialist will provide a warranty for their work (we offer a 15-year warranty) 🎯
• Check that they are QBCC-licensed – this protects you from dodgy workmanship.
• Avoid hiring off Hi-Pages or Gumtree where unlicensed handymen often operate.

Step 4: Understanding the Timeframes and Expertise Required

Balconies are more complex to repair than other tiled areas due to:

• Upstairs Location – Hauling equipment, tiles, and materials up stairs adds time and labour. Exposure to weather – Rain and humidity can delay waterproofing and screeding.
• Irregular Shapes & Precision Cuts – Many balconies have curves or unusual shapes that require expert tiling skills. Most general tilers aren’t trained for this level of precision.
• Niche Expertise Required – Balconies require a mix of skills, including screeding, waterproofing, and handling drainage correctly.

Few tradies specialise in balcony repairs, which is why it’s hard to find good balcony tilers that are not booked out 6-12 months in advance.

Sue from Hope Island had a big job to renovate this balcony in her Hope Island vacation rental. The whole building had issues with leaks, and unfortunately her bottom floor balcony copped the brunt of the issue. This was the result after two weeks of our team onsite.