Types of balcony and terrace flooring

Thinking about renovating your balcony or terrace? Before getting started, it helps to compare different flooring options to design the right surface for your project.

Here is a practical overview of the advantages and drawbacks of each common balcony flooring type.

Engineered fiberglass flooring

At Rampes et Balcons, we use engineered fiberglass floors from Balco Tech for balcony flooring projects. Their products are made from molded or custom fiberglass panels using premium materials. They offer a beautiful wood-grain, slip-resistant finish. Although more expensive, this is an excellent long-term investment.

Other key benefits of this engineered flooring:

• Waterproof
• Over 20-year lifespan and 10-year warranty
• Low heat absorption, so it is comfortable underfoot
• Available in multiple shades
• Does not warp like composite

Our Balco Tech engineered fiberglass floors

Balco Tech floors offer major benefits in waterproofing and durability. They are slip-resistant (suitable for above-ground pool areas), maintenance-free, available in various colours, and their colour resists UV and weather.

Treated wood

Treated wood is an economical, versatile option that gives outdoor spaces a warm natural look. It does, however, require regular maintenance (sanding and staining) to keep it in good condition over time.

Main benefits of treated wood:

• Can be stained in the colour of your choice
• Versatile
• Low cost
• Warm appearance
• Works with all decor styles

Red or white cedar

As its name suggests, red cedar has a rich reddish tone that gives a unique character to a balcony or terrace. However, it tends to grey over time, so it needs periodic restaining to keep its original look. We also offer white cedar balcony flooring.

Its advantages in short:

• Uniform grain that takes stain well
• Resistance to insects and moisture
• Natural appearance

White cedar

Red cedar

Stained cedar

Composite wood

Made from a blend of wood fibre residues, recycled plastic and synthetic polymers, composite flooring has become popular for its wood-like finish and durability. However, colour can fade with UV exposure and the material is sensitive to expansion.

Main advantages of composite wood:

• Low maintenance
• Moisture resistance
• High durability
• Wood-like finish

Aluminum slats

Lightweight and easy to clean, aluminum balcony slats are well suited to our harsh climate. They are a bit more expensive and can be dented if heavy objects are dropped. Also, if coated with paint, the finish may chip.

Some advantages of aluminum slats:

• Do not rust
• Easy to clean
• Available in several colours and finishes
• Do not retain much heat

Not sure which option is right for you? Contact us for more guidance.