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Is top floor balcony good with no roof?

Started by emike
about 15 years ago
Posts: 2
Member since: Nov 2007
Discussion about
I'm looking at a condo that has a 60sqft balcony. I have a choice between the 5th fl and the 6th fl. The 6th fl balcony doesn't have a roof. Should that be a concern? I like the higher floor, but I'm worried that the lack of the roof would open the stuff I decide to put on the balcony open to rain and bird crap. Also, without the roof, I'm thinking, you always have to keep the door/windows closed whenever there is a chance of rain. What do you think? The balcony has eastern exposure by the way.
Response by janiney
about 15 years ago
Posts: 16
Member since: Jul 2009

Check and see if they would let you install a retractable canopy. I have seen it done before and this could afford you the best of both worlds. It's certainly nice to be able to enjoy direct sun when the weather permits.

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Response by matsonjones
about 15 years ago
Posts: 1183
Member since: Feb 2007

Is the 6th floor is the top floor of the building?

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Response by drdrd
about 15 years ago
Posts: 1905
Member since: Apr 2007

Those retractable awnings are great but you have to be careful with them; if the wind catches it & bends it, it may be no longer retractable. Caveat emptor.

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Response by emike
about 15 years ago
Posts: 2
Member since: Nov 2007

Thanks for the idea about the retractable awning.
Technically the 6th floor is not the top of the building, but there are no balconies above it because there is a large terrace right above.

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Response by MrSuttonPlace
about 15 years ago
Posts: 155
Member since: Aug 2009

at least you can grow veggies with full sun, for part of the day at least.

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Response by alanhart
about 15 years ago
Posts: 12397
Member since: Feb 2007

Unless you fully enclose it, anything you put out there will be subject to the elements, with or without another balcony above. Rain doesn't use a plumb bob. Neither does soot.

Just what do you plan on putting out there? I recommend heirloom tomatoes (especially Cherokee Purple), but you need the right light. Or, maybe, stuff that's made for outdoor use.

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Response by bramstar
about 15 years ago
Posts: 1909
Member since: May 2008

Hopefully no one will toss cig butts from the terrace onto your balcony...

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Response by Apt_Boy
about 15 years ago
Posts: 675
Member since: Apr 2008

The key point is the ability of someone above (either via balcony, roof, etc) has clear access to your balcony. As stated, the tossing of cigs, bottle caps, etc can not be overlooked. This is a huge problem in my building where there are numerous exposed terraces on multiple levels. You would think that people of certain status in society would be more considerate, but it actual appears to be the opposite.

So, if exposed, go with the covered option, otherwise sunlight and open air wins.

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