Balcony - Applications for rubber balcony coverings

Rubber granulate flooring is a versatile and innovative alternative to traditional balcony materials such as concrete, stone, wood, WPC (wood-plastic composite), or plastic. Combining comfort, safety, and aesthetics, it offers numerous advantages for outdoor spaces like balconies due to its durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance. Below is an in-depth exploration of its applications, types, and benefits, making it a worthwhile alternative for any balcony.

Applications of Rubber Granulate Flooring on Balconies

1. General Use as a Living and Leisure Area

  • Seating Areas: Rubber floors provide a safe, comfortable, and visually appealing foundation for balcony furniture, such as tables, chairs, or lounge sets.
  • Barefoot Areas: The elastic and soft properties make rubber floors ideal for barefoot use on balconies, especially during warm summer days.
  • Children’s Play Areas: The shock-absorbing properties protect children from injuries due to falls, making them perfect for balconies used as play spaces.

2. Balconies with Plants or Herb Gardens

  • Under Plant Containers: Rubber granulate floors prevent scratches, pressure marks, or water damage caused by pots and planters.
  • Drainage: The water-permeable structure allows excess water to drain away, avoiding puddles or waterlogging.

3. Fitness and Sports Areas

  • Workout Spaces: For balconies used as fitness zones (e.g., for yoga, Pilates, or light strength training), rubber floors offer a shock-absorbing and slip-resistant surface.
  • Noise Reduction: Rubber floors dampen noises caused by moving or setting up fitness equipment.

4. Transition and Storage Areas

  • Under Storage Areas: Rubber floors protect the base surface from scratches and pressure marks caused by bicycles, walkers, or gardening tools.
  • Access Paths: Slip-resistant surfaces ensure safety, especially in wet weather conditions.

Types of Rubber Granulate Flooring for Balconies

1. Rubber Balcony Tiles (40 x 40 cm) with Connector Pins

  • Features: Small tiles connected with pins for easy assembly.
  • Advantages:
    • Easy to transport and install.
    • Damaged tiles can be replaced individually.
    • Ideal for small balconies or specific sections.

2. Rubber Balcony Slabs (50 x 50 cm) with Interlocking System

  • Features: Larger slabs with an interlocking system for seamless connections.
  • Advantages:
    • Fewer joints for a cohesive appearance.
    • Faster installation on larger surfaces.
    • High load capacity, suitable for balcony furniture or fitness equipment.

3. Rubber Balcony Mats (100 x 100 cm) with Connector Pins

  • Features: Large mats for quick coverage of extensive areas.
  • Advantages:
    • Minimal joints for a smooth look.
    • Excellent shock absorption, ideal for high-traffic balconies.
    • Time-saving installation for larger balconies.

4. Rubber Balcony Pavers in Double-T Design

  • Features: Pavers made of rubber granulate in a classic double-T shape.
  • Advantages:
    • Visually appealing, resembling traditional paving stones.
    • Highly slip-resistant and safe.
    • Effective water drainage through gaps.

5. Balcony Flooring with Artificial Turf Surface

  • Features: A combination of rubber granulate and an artificial turf surface.
  • Advantages:
    • Natural appearance, ideal for creating a green, inviting balcony.
    • Comfortable texture, especially for barefoot use.
    • Easy to maintain and long-lasting.

Advantages of Rubber Granulate Flooring Over Traditional Balcony Materials

1. Safety

  • Slip Resistance: Provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions, reducing the risk of slips.
  • Shock Absorption: Minimizes injury risks from falls, particularly beneficial for children and elderly individuals.
  • Fire Safety: Many rubber granulate floors meet high fire safety standards and are flame-retardant.

2. Comfort

  • Softness: The elastic surface is pleasant for barefoot walking and offers exceptional comfort.
  • Thermal Insulation: Rubber floors stay cool in the summer, unlike concrete or stone, making them comfortable underfoot.
  • Soundproofing: Reduces footstep noise, which is particularly advantageous in apartment complexes.

3. Functionality

  • Water Permeability: Allows rain or watering excess to drain quickly, preventing puddles and waterlogging.
  • Weather Resistance: Resistant to UV rays, frost, and temperature fluctuations.
  • Easy Replacement: Modular rubber floors can be easily adjusted or replaced if necessary.

4. Sustainability

  • Recycled Material: Often made from recycled rubber (e.g., old tires), making them eco-friendly.
  • Durability: High resilience ensures a long lifespan, reducing waste.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

  • Customizable Design: Available in various colors, shapes, and textures to match the balcony’s architecture and style.
  • Visual Enhancement: Rubber flooring creates a modern, attractive, and cohesive atmosphere.

Care and Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Regular sweeping or rinsing with water is usually sufficient to keep the surface clean.
  • Inspection: Checking for damage or loose connections ensures long-term usability.
  • Repair: Damaged tiles or slabs can be replaced easily.

Conclusion

Rubber granulate flooring is a safe, durable, and visually appealing alternative for balconies, offering advantages over traditional materials. Its slip resistance, shock absorption, and low-maintenance properties make it suitable for various applications—from barefoot zones to play and fitness areas or balconies with plants and outdoor furniture. With a range of styles and designs available, it can be customized to meet the needs and aesthetics of any balcony while ensuring maximum safety and comfort.