How to make your Balcony Safe for Children
A balcony is without a doubt a wonderful addition to any home. It offers an extra room for your house that benefits from all the wonderful things that fresh air and a view have to offer, while still being connected to the main property for ease. Homeowners without a garden particularly enjoy a balcony – it might be the only outdoor space a property has, and there is no doubt that it’s a significant feature that adds value to a property too.
No matter how sought-after a balcony is, there can be no doubt that safety concerns are a factor, particularly for those with young children. The number of accidents involving children in high-rise buildings is on the increase. Balconies can indeed be lethal if they are not safe enough, and this worry can be enough to put many homeowners with young families off having one installed.
However, provided you take the necessary precautions, there is no need to be concerned. Balconies can be made totally safe with just a few adjustments, and here are some ways in which you can do just that:
Railings
If your balcony has railings, then they must be tightly together so that it would be impossible for a child to get through, or even to poke their head through.
A plastic shield
If your railings are too wide and give you cause for concern, you could consider adding a plastic shield. It will be relatively unnoticeable, but it will ensure that the railings are 100% protected with a barrier so that nobody can fall through.
Wire or plastic mesh
This is another way to install a barrier on your railings to ensure complete safety. It’s very easy to add to existing railings, and will give you that reassurance you’re looking for that your children (and your pets too for that matter) are completely safe.
Additional slats/spindles
It may be that you can adapt your balcony with additional slats and spindles to reinforce the railings and make sure that nobody can get through. There are many ways in which this can be achieved, so it’s worth considering.
A temporary solution
Of course, if you’ve just moved into a property then you may not have time on your side. When it comes to protecting your children from a nasty accident, you must act immediately. If you want a temporary solution, you can easily fix cardboard up against the railings to create a barrier. Make sure it is stuck fast so that it is secure, and prioritise your balcony renovations so that it can be made safe as soon as possible.
Whether you’re looking for balcony renovations or a completely new addition to your home, Blue Cube Fabrications will help you find the perfect solution that’s also totally safe for you and your family. Get in touch to discuss your individual needs with us.
