Frey & Son Homes, Bonita Springs, Fla.

For the past two years, Frey & Son Homes has been using a special waterproofing, uncoupling, and vapor pressure equalization membrane beneath its tiled balconies and second-story deck areas. Schluter Systems provides a multi-component method for waterproofing such raised, exterior tiled areas that do not have enclosed living space below.

Using the Schluter-DITRA polyethylene membrane along with several balcony assembly accessories neutralizes the stresses that frequently occur on balconies between the substrate and the tile covering. “It has proven far superior to roofing products and other waterproofing membranes,” says Frey & Son’s George Shaffer. “This is a vast improvement as to appearance and preventing efflorescence from the tile grout staining the balcony face.”

Courtesy Schluter Systems The accessories give a clean, finished look to balcony edges, as well. Several balcony edging profiles with various types of drip lips are available, as well as a gutter system. “We love the finished edge detail we get,” Shaffer says. ??Schluter Systems. 800.472.4588. www.schluter.com