RAA In Detail | Balcony Drainage Systems in Multi Residential Design – Challenges, Solutions and the Impact of NCC 2025 | Stormtech
Wednesday 5 August 1 – 2pm
CPD: 1 formal point (performance criteria 18, 28, 43 and 46 from the AACA National Standard of Competency for Architects 2021).
Tickets: $35 | RAA members can use the discount code from the member content area for free admission.
The Session
Balconies are a popular feature in multi-residential buildings, offering occupants an appealing blend of indoor and outdoor living. However, these spaces present specific challenges in terms of drainage. Without effective water management systems, they are susceptible to water accumulation, which in turn, can lead to structural issues and building degradation.
As multi-residential developments continue to expand across Australia, the complexity of balcony designs has grown. This has resulted in a higher number of building defects, particularly in relation to waterproofing failures, ingress and leaks. Such issues are a growing concern for architects, developers, and designers striving to create durable and reliable structures.
Addressing these defects is critical, as they impact not only the longevity of the building in question but also the satisfaction of owners and occupants. The fact that poor drainage design can result in costly maintenance underscores the importance of considering water management early in the design phase of multi-residential balcony projects.
In this CPD session, we look at why balconies leak and the drainage solutions that will prevent water accumulating and entering the indoor environment. We also consider the upcoming changes related to this field in the 2025 update of the National Construction Code (NCC).
By the end of this session, you should be able to:
Identify the main drainage issues associated with balconies on multi residential buildings
Outline the potential consequences of not addressing these issues
Outline the ways NCC 2025 deals with drainage in multi residential buildings
Explain why linear drainage represents a good choice in these applications
Troy Creighton
Troy Creighton has been the Managing Director of Stormtech Pty Ltd since 2003. Stormtech was founded by Troy’s father John in 1989 and Troy has been involved in the design and functionalities of linear drains since the company’s inception. Troy has developed the company to be the market leader in architectural drainage solutions in Australia and has grown extensive overseas markets.
Stormtech
Stormtech has been providing inspiring architectural drainage solutions for over 30 years. Used in bathrooms, showers, thresholds, paved areas, driveways, pools and pool surrounds, Stormtech grates and drains are known for sleek design, innovation, and practicality.
Manufactured in Australia from 316 stainless steel, Stormtech linear drainage systems are available made-to-length, or modular to be cut on-site.
All Stormtech drains connect directly with all standard plumbing fittings and all have Watermark & Platinum GreenTag International certifications.