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Fencing a Terrace: Challenges and Solutions

Hello everyone, I am Marco from Fenceshop, the e-commerce of Rete Plastic. Today we are discussing a highly requested topic: how to fence a terrace. This subject often raises questions from our customers who are looking for solutions to install fences on terraces or balconies. However, this task presents numerous challenges. Let's discover together what the pitfalls are and how we can overcome them.

The Seals: Essential Protection

When we talk about terraces, balconies, or concrete slabs above garages, there is a common element: seals. Seals are layers of waterproof material, typically bituminous, applied hot to prevent water infiltration. These seals create a barrier that protects the underlying structures, such as garages or habitable spaces, from moisture. During construction, after creating the main concrete slab, a seal layer is laid, often with flaps to form a sort of waterproof tub. Subsequently, a fine sand screed is applied, followed by the tiles we walk on.

The Problem of Holes

When we need to install a fence, the most intuitive solution would be to plug the posts directly into the finished floor. However, drilling into the seal poses the risk of water infiltration. Even if we insert screws into the holes, water could still penetrate and cause significant structural damage. Water infiltrations are difficult to detect and resolve, as water can flow and appear far from the point of origin of the problem.

Alternative Solutions: Planters and Panels

To avoid damaging the seal, we at Fenceshop have developed a practical solution: using planters. These planters, positioned about two meters apart, act as external bases for the fence posts. Inside the planters, we can cement the posts, keeping the cement below the finished level and covering it with soil to plant vegetation. This solution avoids drilling into the floor and adds an aesthetic touch to the terrace.

However, there are limits. This method is not suitable for very robust meshes or with great traction, as the planters could lift. It works well with T-posts and light meshes, up to 1.50 meters high, without excessive tension. Additionally, we will have to be creative in the installation, placing the posts as close as possible to the edge of the planters and ensuring that the mesh extends to the floor.

Panel Fences

A valid alternative is the use of panel fences. These modular panels do not require tension, eliminating the problem of brace arms and tension wires. The panels are independent and do not exert force, making them ideal for terraces with seals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fencing a terrace requires attention and creative solutions to avoid structural damage. We at Fenceshop are here to offer you advice and quality materials to create safe and aesthetically pleasing fences. We hope this video has been helpful. Leave us your comments and share your experiences. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and our community on Facebook. Thank you for listening and see you in the next video!