A Closer Look at Falls and Drainage Efficiency in Balcony Design: Optimising AliDeck Balcony Drainage Solutions with: NHBC Standards 2024 (Part 4)

NOTE: This post is part of a series of posts, links to other parts are at the bottom of the page

In the dynamic world of balcony construction, mastering falls and drainage efficiency is pivotal. AliDeck’s AliDrain range expertly aligns with the stringent NHBC Standards 2024. Our focus is delivering top-notch aluminium drainage solutions in multi-storey building designs.

Dive into how AliDeck’s innovative approach with AliDrain is streamlining effective water management, ensuring your balconies are not just aesthetically appealing but also technically superior and fully compliant with the latest industry standards.

Section 7.1 of NHBC Standards 2024 outlines crucial requirements for flat roofs, terraces, and balconies, focusing on design information and the details for balcony construction, including decking and drainage systems. The standards emphasise effective drainage with no backfalls, and our AliDrain range is designed precisely to meet these requirements.

Innovative AliDrain Solutions: Piped and Edge Drainage

A drainage system of outlets and downpipes should be provided to all flat roofing, balcony, and terrace areas. Developed in compliance with BS 8579:2020, AliDeck offers two key solutions for compliant balcony drainage solutions: Piped drainage (Positive) and Edge Drainage. These systems are designed to mitigate nuisance, enhance safety, and prevent structural damage.

According to NHBC Standards 2024 Section 7.1.4, drainage systems can include conventional piped drainage or an edge drained design. These new NHBC Standards remove all ambiguity around balcony drainage and finally aligns with the original text outlined in BS 8579:2020 as NHBC are now insistent that:

“a drainage system of outlets and downpipes should be provided to all flat roof, balcony, and terrace areas”.

AliDrain systems are sized to handle both normal and concentrated rainfall flows, ensuring robust drainage across all areas outlined in this article.

Deck-Level Piped Drainage: Our Deck-Level Piped system ensures effective water management on balcony surfaces. It’s designed to comply with the 1:50 and 1:100 year storm criteria for projected UK rainfall, crucial for multi-storey arrangements. No fall required on 20mm boards up to 4.25m and no fall required on 30mm boards up to 6m.
Soffit Piped Drainage: Concealed yet efficient, the Soffit Piped Drainage is designed for a discreet appearance without compromising on functionality. It’s an ideal solution for projects where aesthetics is as important as practicality.
Edge Drainage: For modern and minimalist designs, our Edge Drainage system provides an effective solution to manage water runoff. It’s particularly effective in stacked balconies, preventing water from cascading onto lower levels.

Ensuring Effective Falls for Optimal Drainage

The design and positioning of our drainage systems are critical in ensuring effective falls. AliDeck’s solutions are engineered to provide optimal falls to facilitate efficient water flow, preventing ponding and ensuring the longevity of the balcony or terrace. This is in line with the NHBC’s emphasis on preventing water from tracking back into soffits or running onto facade surfaces.

If you would like to discuss NHBC Standards 2024 or AliDrain’s aluminium drainage solutions with us in more detail, please feel free to arrange a meeting with a member of our technical experts at your earliest convenience.

We will be happy to host all interested parties and their team at our warehouse for a free lunch, tour, and training. Alternatively, we can arrange to visit you at your head office.