Whether you use your balcony for relaxation or entertainment, it’s vital to understand balcony safety best practices.
At 20th Place Apartments, we combine luxury living with rigorous safety standards. Below is a revised 10-step checklist to protect residents, including critical updates for families, pet owners, and proactive maintenance.
1. Ensure Railings Meet Safety Standards
Ensure your apartment balcony is a safe haven by focusing on structural integrity. Start by verifying railings meet the 42-inch height requirement, with gaps no wider than 4 inches. This is critical for preventing children or pets from slipping through.
Test stability by firmly shaking the railings; excessive movement may signal loose anchors or corrosion that needs urgent attention. Inspect materials for rust, rot, or cracks, especially in wood or metal components, as these weaken over time. A few proactive checks can transform your balcony into a secure, worry-free retreat for relaxing or entertaining.
Why It Matters: An estimated 86,500 balcony fall-related injuries were treated in the United States from 1990-2006. By prioritizing safety, you can make your apartment a safer place to live.
2. Prioritize Balcony Safety for Children and Pets
The last thing anyone wants to think about is an injury to children. Make sure railings are vertical. You can also add plexiglass panels to prevent more adventurous children from climbing. In your apartment, install childproof locks on balcony doors. Make sure you position them out of reach to ensure little hands can’t open them.
It’s also important to consider balcony safety measures tailored to pets. Keep small pets indoors, and monitor larger dogs to prevent them from jumping over railings. Additionally, avoid placing furniture near railings that can serve as a launching point. By following these steps, you can ensure your apartment’s smaller inhabitants or visitors are safe.
3. Surface and Flooring Maintenance
In Joplin, crazy weather is a given. From summer storms to winter ice, regular flooring TLC can improve balcony safety at your apartment. Here are some best practices to follow.
- Keep flooring secure and functional with proactive maintenance.
- Regularly inspect for cracks or uneven tiles, repairing as necessary.
- Improve traction by applying anti-slip coatings or using outdoor rugs.
- Ensure proper water drainage by checking that slopes direct moisture away.
- Prioritize clearing ice and snow promptly during winter.
4. Avoid Overloading Your Balcony’s Weight Capacity
Balcony furniture and accessories are usually lightweight for a reason. By respecting its weight limits, you can prevent dangerous overloading. Materials like aluminum or resin wicker are light, attractive options for balcony decor. At Bell Management, we take every precaution to ensure safety and security at our apartments.
While we fully understand the appeal of an outdoor party, you can still practice balcony safety. Limit gatherings to a safe number of guests. You can also advise that no more than a certain number of people be out on the balcony at the same time. Ignoring these guidelines can strain the structure, accelerating wear. By practicing a little balcony safety mindfulness, you can make your balcony a relaxing retreat.
5. Practice Electrical Safety and Prevent Fire Hazards
At Bell Management, we rigorously hold to local, state, and federal apartment safety compliance requirements. You can confirm this by checking that exterior outlets are GFCI-equipped to prevent shocks in damp conditions. If you have cords on your balcony, keep them tidy. If you enjoy grilling or using heaters on your balcony, always keep a fire extinguisher nearby. These simple steps can keep your balcony functional and hazard-free.
6. Weatherproofing and Water Damage Prevention
Keep your balcony resilient against the elements with these essential maintenance steps. You can fill out a maintenance request form if you notice any potential balcony safety issues.
- Re-caulk gaps around railings and walls annually to prevent structural decay.
- Apply waterproof membranes to concrete or wood every two to three years.
- Regularly clean gutters and drains to avoid overflow and prevent damage.
Waterproofing repairs can cost $1,000 to $2,500 and even more, depending on the scope of the issues. However, these preventative measures ensure long-term cost savings and extend the balcony’s lifespan.
7. The Impact of Cleaning and Debris Removal to Balcony Safety
Maintain a safe and inviting balcony with a set cleaning routine. Start by sweeping weekly to remove leaves, dirt, and pollen. These can compromise traction and create slippery surfaces if left unchecked. You can also limit the number of things you keep on your balcony full-time to make cleaning easier.
Once a year, take the opportunity for some more rigorous spring cleaning. Give your balcony a deep clean with a pressure washer to eliminate mold and mildew. For stubborn stains, use a stiff brush and mild detergent to restore it to prime condition.
8. Professional Inspections and Repairs
With professional help, balcony safety is a breeze. Schedule annual checks with licensed contractors to catch potential issues early. After severe weather, inspect the balcony for damage. Keep detailed records of repairs to provide your apartment’s maintenance team ahead of any repairs.
9. Furniture and Decor Safety
Transform your balcony into a safe and stylish retreat by focusing on furniture setup and decor. In windy conditions, stabilize umbrellas and planters with sandbags or brackets to prevent them from becoming projectiles. Prioritize fire safety by keeping flammable items like cushions and curtains away from grills or other heat sources.
For pet owners, choose furniture with smooth edges to prevent injuries. To maximize space during gatherings, consider foldable furniture options that blend functionality with style. By balancing aesthetics with safety, you can create a welcoming outdoor space for everyone.
10. Emergency Preparedness
Bell Management takes safety and preparedness seriously. In an area where storms can strike quickly, it’s important to know how to practice balcony safety. During tornado warnings, familiarize yourself with the location of nearby underground shelters.
Why Choose 20th Place Apartments?
Balcony safety isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. Trust 20th Place Apartments to deliver secure, stylish living in the heart of Joplin. Our Joplin community prioritizes safety without sacrificing comfort.
Schedule Your Tour Today
If you’re planning a move to Joplin, there’s no better choice for luxury living than 20th Place. Schedule your tour today to get started.
Phone: (417) 622-0391
Address: 1920 E 20th Street, Joplin, MO
