How to enclose a balcony?
Wondering how to enclose your balcony? We tell you what options are available and why you should choose a louvre enclosure.
Balcony enclosures are an increasingly common solution chosen by flat and condo owners. On the one hand, it allows you to increase the functionality of the space, on the other hand, it protects you from the weather and the outside gaze. Question, how to enclose a balcony in a block of flats, there is no single answer, because there are several ways. In this text, I will guide you through the most important solutions, with a special focus on modern movable patio blinds - the so-called "movable planksk".
What is a balcony enclosure?
A balcony enclosure is a way of transforming an open space into a comfortable and safe place. It means that the balcony gains an extra layer of protection from rain, wind and excessive sun. At the same time, it becomes a private corner for relaxing, working or meeting. With the right building, you can use your balcony much longer throughout the year and adapt it to your needs.
What are the ways of enclosing a balcony in a block of flats?
Traditionally, balconies were enclosed with glass in the form of sliding systems. This gives lightness and transparency, but does not always provide privacy and does not allow the amount of light to be regulated. Fixed enclosures - e.g. made of panels, panels or wood - are also popular, but they have one disadvantage: they close the space permanently and often restrict air circulation.
In recent years there has been an increasing use of louvre building systems - based on moving panels. This is where OpenUp systemwhich allows you to create walls composed of movable planks or aluminium fins. This allows you to decide whether you want to open up your balcony to the light and air or shield it from the wind and sun.
You can find out more about the different building methods in our guide: guide to terrace construction.
Movable patio blinds - why is it worth it?
Movable boards The OpenUp system is a solution that combines a protective function with flexibility. You can adjust the angle of the slats and adapt the balcony conditions to the weather and time of day. This is an advantage over glass, which always remains transparent, and over a fixed enclosure, which cannot be changed.
OpenUp system is:
- Polish manufacture and robust handles,
- compatibility with wood i aluminium,
- vertical and horizontal installation possible,
- to match modern architectural styles.
If you are wondering what lamella options are available, check out the range in our shop: movable boards.
Wooden planks or aluminium laths?
The choice of material depends on your expectations:
- Wood gives a natural appearance and fits in well with buildings of traditional architecture. However, it is worth remembering that it requires periodic maintenance and impregnation.
- Aluminium is moisture-resistant, low-maintenance and blends in well with modern facades. It can be powder-coated in any RAL colour. If you wish, you can choose woodgrain aluminium blinds, which imitate not only the colour but also the texture of the wood.
On Otwierane.co.uk you will find realisations of both variants - see photos of balconies built with wood and aluminium to compare the effects.
Vertical or horizontal development?
This is one of the more common questions in planning.
- Vertical installation works well when the priority is to protect against wind and glances from neighbouring buildings. It is a classic solution that gives the effect of a balcony blind.
- Horizontal development better protects from the sun coming in at an angle. It also gives a modern look, reminiscent of a lamella facade.
Both variants can be combined - e.g. vertical side walls and horizontal front.
When is it a good idea to enclose a balcony?
Not every balcony needs an enclosure, but there are situations where this is particularly beneficial:
- when the balcony is exposed to strong wind and rain,
- when you want more privacy,
- when the balcony is part of a leisure space and you want to extend its season of use,
- when you want an aesthetically pleasing match to the building facade.
Full practical information can be found here: how to enclose a balcony.
How to enclose a balcony with blinds step by step?
The installation of a louvre balcony enclosure is a process that can be carried out in stages:
- System selection - You decide whether you opt for wood or aluminium, and whether you want vertical, horizontal or mixed.
- Measurements - accurately measure the width and height of the space to prepare the frames and laths.
- Choice of frame - an aluminium or wooden structure forms the base in which the movable boards will be set.
- Installation of brackets and fins - The laths or boards are inserted into the holders of the OpenUp system and can be set at different angles.
- Finishing and adjustment - checking the smoothness of the movement of the boards, adjusting the angles if necessary and painting the frame in the chosen colour.
The whole process gives the effect of a light, modern building that can be controlled independently - once opening the balcony to light and air, at other times creating a wall-like screen.
Order a balcony enclosure with installation
If you want to enjoy a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing balcony without having to do the work yourself, you can opt for a fitted balcony. Our team will prepare the structure to size, select the right materials and ensure that the movable boards or slats are properly seated. Request a free quote: wycena@otwierane.pl. You are welcome!