Balcony Fixings: What You Need to Know Before Ordering One of Our Standard Designs

Installing a balcony is an exciting upgrade for your home, but one of the most important (and often overlooked) considerations is how it will be fixed to your property. The safety and lifespan of your balcony depend entirely on correct fixings so before you start planning, here’s what you need to know.

Should I Ask an Engineer?

Yes… always.

The best practice is to consult a structural engineer before ordering your balcony. Every wall and structure is unique, and while some general guidance can help, nothing replaces professional advice when it comes to safety.

What Materials Can I Fix Into?

• Brickwork, blockwork, and masonry

Generally straightforward and widely suitable for balcony fixings.

• Structural timber & solid stonework

Often acceptable, but suitability depends on the specific material and construction. Always confirm with a professional.

• Steel, uPVC, and ‘other’ materials

May or may not be suitable at all. These require expert assessment.

If you’re unsure what material you’re fixing to, a builder, surveyor, or structural engineer can give you clarity.

Common Fixing Scenarios

Fixing Into Masonry or Brick

• Typical fixing: M10 x 125mm resin fixed studding (we often use Rawlplug R-KEM II).
• Drill holes at a right angle to the wall.
• Aim to fix centrally on a brick (though edges & mortar joints are sometimes acceptable).
• Minimum penetration: 90mm into brick.
• For hollow bricks/blocks: use mesh sleeves (sieves).

 

Fixing Into Solid Concrete

• Same fixings as masonry (M10 x 125mm resin studding).
• Set fixings away from concrete edges & joints for maximum strength.

Fixing Into Timber

• Typical fixing: M8 coach screws, minimum penetration of 75mm.
• Not all timber can handle balcony loads—always confirm with the timber frame manufacturer or an engineer.

Fixing Into Steel

• Possible, but highly variable. Strength and thickness differ widely.
• Always consult a structural engineer for specifications.

Fixing Into Solid Stonework

• Generally follows masonry/brick guidelines.
• Rough stone may need adjustments to ensure the fixing plate makes proper contact.
• Professional advice from an engineer, builder, or stonemason is essential.

Special Cases

uPVC

In most cases, balconies cannot be fixed directly into uPVC. However, bespoke solutions may be possible with guidance from your uPVC unit manufacturer and a structural engineer. We can design and manufacture custom fixing plates based on their advice.

Aluminium

As with uPVC, aluminium window frames are often unsuitable for supporting a window guard. We have worked on projects where bespoke fixing solutions were possible so we would encourage you to speak to the manufacturer and then approach Forjj with details of your specific frame.

Unlisted or unusual materials

Fixing is often possible, but again, only under the guidance of a structural engineer. If standard fixing plates won’t work, we can create bespoke options tailored to your project.

Important Disclaimer

The guidance above is provided for general reference only. Every structure is different, and incorrect fixings can compromise safety. Steelcraft are not structural engineers and cannot provide project-specific specifications.

Always seek clarification from a qualified structural engineer before placing your order.

Standard Designs & Custom Metalwork

Whether you’re choosing one of our standard balcony designs or commissioning a bespoke metalwork balcony, the right fixings are critical to the safety and performance of your installation. Our team can work alongside your engineer’s advice to manufacture custom fixing plates where required, ensuring your balcony is both secure and beautifully finished.

Need a Hand?

If you’ve read this far and still have questions, don’t worry. While we can’t provide structural calculations, our team is always happy to discuss your project and point you in the right direction. And if bespoke fixing plates are needed, we can manufacture them to suit the advice you receive.

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