Supported, cantilevered or access balconies

Due to their exposed position, supported or cantilevered balconies stand at the boundary between private and public spheres. This effect is even more pronounced in the case of access balconies, where the connection between residential units offers space for neighborhood interaction. In most cases, they also fulfill the important function of escape and rescue routes.

Minimizing thermal bridges

Since balconies and access balconies are among the most critical thermal bridges in a building, they pose a major challenge for planners. In addition to thermal insulation and structure, fire, sound and moisture protection must also be taken into account and the values required must be adhered to. The higher thermal conductivity of the materials used in cantilever building components is the cause of thermal bridges. This is the situation that requires effective thermal insulation in the connection between the cantilever slab and the building, in terms of energy efficiency and protection from structural damage.

Renovation of existing buildings

Increasing energy requirements are also an issue for existing buildings: 85% of existing buildings are not sufficiently insulated. As a result they do not meet current or future energy standards.  When renovating, there are various solutions for retrofitting balconies to the existing buildings with thermal separation. This applies to both cantilevered and supported balcony structures as well as reinforced concrete and steel connections.

Meeting requirements with Schöck

As the specialist in thermal insulation requirements, Schöck offers effective solutions with the load-bearing thermal insulation elements Isokorb® for all requirements and designs. We have broad expertise in all options for energy-efficient renovation or the redesign of balconies and provide support right from the planning process – including issues such as drainage, sound insulation or accessibility.