We have had many requests like this, so we have looked into this in some depth.Firstly, in a balcony you need something which looks good and adds value to your home.Secondly, it must be cost-effective.
There are a few firms out there who can install you a balcony, but being keen on DIY we have found the Beamlock Balcony Kit to be great value for money.As it’s made from thick sections of engineered glulam timber, using a connecting system that involves no nails (!), the system not only looks fantastic, but is fully DIY!
Tools required: Saw, ¼” Shank Router Bits (6.3mm, 7mm and Cone Router), Rotary drill, Hammer, Tape measure, 34mm spanner
Preparation (allow a good few hours):
- Cut the beams to length to suit balcony location (this may not be required)
- Create mortises in posts and beams using Instruction Manual (this may not be required)
- Add a 45 degree bevel to the beams (this may not be required)
- Insert the Beamlock fixings
- Before building assembly affix base plate to post, tightening the bolt clockwise for 6 full rotations
Assembly (allow at least a day, with help):
- Assemble your first pair of posts
- Lay two posts on a flat surface and fix beam by hammering pin into post connection, locking the beamplate into the cruciform. Place the ‘goal’ posts vertically in the setting out positions and temporarily support.
- Check that the post tops are horizontal using a sprit level and straight edge. All post tops must be at the same level. Establish desired height by adjusting base plates.
- Lower beam into position and fix by hammering fixing pin (apply grease for ease) to post connection.Place top plate into position before any further pins are inserted. Continue by tapping pins through top plate in appropriate position.
- Fix the steel end plates b using the fixing pins supplied in the kit to connect it to the post cruciform.Secure top plate with two 100mm wood screws. (Tip: Fix preservative treated 47x100mm head binder strip flush to the outer edge of the beam)
- Offer-up brace into mortises and fix with Beamlock 12mm brace pins (Tip: Apply grease for ease).
- Install necessary decking, handrails and spindles for safety.
Check it out, we sell planning drawings for your first floor balcony!
Click Here!
Supplied by:
The Home & Garden Centre
