Repair Systems — 01
Balcony edge trims — waterproof termination and drip edge
Technical product reference for balcony perimeter edge trim systems used in balcony and terrace waterproofing remediation on Australian Class 2 strata buildings. Covers aluminium (powder coat and anodised) and custom fabricated 316L stainless steel edge trim selection for standard and coastal environments — membrane-integrated drip edge termination, tile anchor profiles, and concealed-fix perimeter trim systems.
Balcony edge trims — scope of this page
This page covers balcony perimeter edge trim systems used in balcony and terrace waterproofing remediation on Australian Class 2 strata buildings. Balcony edge trims are critical secondary components in a waterproofing system — the membrane alone is not sufficient without a correctly specified edge termination that protects the membrane's terminal detail from water undercutting, UV exposure, and physical damage at the open slab perimeter.
Balcony edge trims are installed at the perimeter of balcony slabs to protect and conceal the membrane termination edge and the exposed tile or screed edge. Selection is primarily driven by material grade — aluminium (powder coat or anodised) for standard environments, and 316L stainless steel for coastal buildings within 1 km of the ocean. Profile selection must match the specified tile build-up depth and must accommodate end caps at all terminations. Products covered include the Demtech BET Series adjustable concealed-fix aluminium trim, Schlüter BARA-RAK and BARA-RAKO anodised aluminium tile anchor profiles, Amark All-Edge concealed-fix aluminium trim, standard anodised aluminium drip angles, and custom fabricated Grade 316L stainless steel edge profiles for coastal environments.
Edge Trim Product Reference
5 products — 4 brands — aluminium, anodised aluminium, and custom fabricated Grade 316 stainless steel balcony edge trim profiles — membrane-integrated waterproof termination at the open balcony and terrace perimeter edge
Demtech BET Series
Extruded aluminium balcony edge trim — powder coated — adjustable projection
Extruded aluminium balcony edge trim — adjustable projection width — powder coated — concealed fastener fixing — compatible with liquid-applied, sheet, and torch-on membrane systems
System Description
The Demtech BET (Balcony Edge Trim) Series is Demtech Building Products' purpose-designed extruded aluminium balcony edge trim for Class 2 strata remediation applications in Australia. The BET Series uses a two-part extruded aluminium profile — a base plate is mechanically fixed to the balcony edge substrate before membrane application, and a cover section clips over to conceal the fixings and provide a clean architectural finish. The adjustable projection accommodates tile build-up variations across different remediation scenarios without requiring custom profiling on site. The system is designed to work with liquid-applied polyurethane, liquid-applied cementitious, cold-applied self-adhesive sheet, and torch-on bitumen membrane systems — the membrane terminates under the cover flange, providing a protected and concealed membrane edge termination detail. Powder coat finish is standard; confirm with Demtech whether the standard coating grade is appropriate for the project's proximity to the coast — a marine-grade powder coat or anodised finish may be required for coastal Class 2 buildings within 1 km of the ocean. Confirm current profile range, dimensions, colour schedule, and installation sequence with Demtech Building Products before specifying.
Technical Properties
- Extruded aluminium two-part profile — base plate fixed to substrate before membrane, cover section clips on to conceal fixings
- Adjustable projection width — accommodates variable tile build-up thickness without bespoke on-site fabrication
- Compatible with liquid-applied PU, cementitious, cold-applied self-adhesive sheet, and torch-on bitumen membrane systems
- Powder coat finish — confirm colour options, gloss level, and coastal suitability with Demtech Building Products
- Concealed fastener fixing — clean architectural finish — membrane terminates under cover flange
- Purpose-designed for Class 2 strata balcony remediation — compatible with tile, paver, and screed build-up systems
Limitations
- Standard powder coat may not be appropriate within 1 km of the ocean or in severe salt air environments — confirm marine-grade coating with Demtech before specifying
- Adjustable projection has a defined range — confirm that the required tile build-up is within the profile's adjustment range before specifying
- Membrane termination must be correctly executed under the cover flange — incorrect membrane termination compromises the waterproof edge detail
- Not a structural support element — must be fixed to a sound, stable substrate — substrate movement will transfer to the profile
- End caps are required at all open profile ends — confirm with Demtech whether end caps are included or separately ordered
- Confirm current product range, dimensions, and installation instructions with Demtech Building Products before specifying
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Confirm suitability with the current manufacturer TDS before specifying or applying.
Schlüter BARA-RAK / BARA-RAKO
Anodised aluminium balcony perimeter profile with tile anchor flange — Schlüter Systems
Anodised aluminium balcony perimeter profile — integrated tile anchor flange — 40mm to 200mm cover widths — BARA-RAKO includes end cap — prevents tile edge chipping and long-term delamination
System Description
Schlüter BARA-RAK and BARA-RAKO are anodised aluminium balcony perimeter profiles from Schlüter Systems for external balcony, terrace, and step edge applications. BARA-RAK is supplied without an end cap; BARA-RAKO includes an integrated end cap at the profile termination for corners and exposed ends. Both profiles incorporate an anchor flange that is embedded in the tile adhesive bed, providing a mechanically anchored tile support at the slab perimeter edge and preventing tile edge chipping, cracking, and long-term delamination over the life of the waterproofing system. Profiles are available in tile cover widths from 40mm to 200mm — the cover dimension is determined by the required projection from the anchor flange to the outer face of the finished tile at the specified build-up thickness. Installation sequence is: fix the BARA profile anchor at the edge after membrane application, then apply tile adhesive and tile over the anchor flange, locking the profile mechanically into the tile bed. The membrane terminates behind the anchor flange — the tile adhesive and tile are applied over the anchor and on top of the membrane. Anodised finish is standard — confirm that the anodised specification is appropriate for the building's salt air exposure category with Schlüter Systems Australia before specifying for coastal projects.
Technical Properties
- Anodised aluminium perimeter profile with integrated tile anchor flange — prevents tile edge chipping and long-term delamination
- BARA-RAK without end cap; BARA-RAKO with integrated end cap — select based on corner and termination configuration
- Available in tile cover widths from 40mm to 200mm — accommodates a wide range of build-up thicknesses
- Anchor flange embedded in tile adhesive bed — provides mechanical edge support independent of adhesive alone
- Compatible with all waterproofing membrane systems — membrane terminates behind the anchor flange before tile installation
- Anodised finish — confirm coastal and severe salt air environment suitability with Schlüter Systems Australia
Limitations
- Standard anodised finish may not provide adequate corrosion resistance in severe coastal salt air environments — confirm marine-grade anodising specification with Schlüter Systems
- Cover width selection must match the designed tile build-up — incorrect profile selection results in a proud or recessed finish at the tile face
- BARA-RAK profile terminations must have separately installed end caps — confirm end cap requirement and ordering with Schlüter Systems
- Not a waterproof seal — the profile is a mechanical edge support and tile anchor system — membrane continuity and correct termination behind the flange is the responsibility of the applicator
- Confirm current product range, available cover widths, anodising grade, and installation requirements with Schlüter Systems Australia
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Confirm suitability with the current manufacturer TDS before specifying or applying.
Amark All-Edge Trim
Extruded aluminium concealed-fix balcony edge trim — Amark
Extruded aluminium concealed-fix balcony edge trim — powder coat or anodised finish — multiple profile configurations — compatible with liquid-applied and sheet waterproofing membrane systems
System Description
The Amark All-Edge Trim is an extruded aluminium concealed-fix balcony edge trim designed for Australian residential and commercial balcony edge termination applications. Amark offers the All-Edge in multiple profile configurations to suit different tile build-up depths and edge geometries. The system uses a concealed mechanical fixing method — the base section is fixed to the substrate before membrane and tile installation, with the visible trim cover applied at completion to give a clean, fastener-free appearance to the balcony edge. Both powder coat and anodised finish options are typically available — the choice between these is driven by aesthetics, substrate environment, and coastal exposure requirements. Confirm the available finish grades and profiles with Amark before specifying — the product range may include coastal-rated finishes for marine environments. Install per Amark's installation guide — membrane termination sequence, primer requirements, and end cap detailing must be followed. Confirm current product range, profile dimensions, finish options, and installation requirements with Amark before specifying.
Technical Properties
- Extruded aluminium two-part concealed-fix profile — base fixed before membrane application, cover applied at completion
- Multiple profile configurations — accommodates different tile build-up depths and edge geometries
- Powder coat and anodised finish options — confirm available grades and coastal suitability with Amark
- Compatible with liquid-applied PU, cementitious, and sheet membrane systems — membrane terminates under the cover section
- End caps required at all profile terminations — confirm availability with Amark
Limitations
- Confirm available finish grades and coastal suitability with Amark — standard powder coat may be insufficient for severe marine environments
- Profile selection must match the specified tile build-up depth — confirm available profile sizes cover the required projection
- Membrane must be correctly terminated under the cover section — incorrect termination compromises the waterproof edge detail
- Confirm current product range, profile options, and installation requirements with Amark before specifying
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Confirm suitability with the current manufacturer TDS before specifying or applying.
Anodised Aluminium Drip Angle
Anodised aluminium drip angle — commodity trade supply — membrane termination
Standard anodised aluminium drip angle profile for membrane edge termination at balcony soffits and slab edges — commodity trade item — available from waterproofing and building products suppliers nationally
Specifier Note
This is a commodity item — multiple manufacturers supply equivalent profiles. Select based on leg dimensions, aluminium thickness, and anodised specification appropriate to the project's salt air exposure. Do not specify 'standard anodising' for coastal environments within 1 km of the ocean — confirm a marine-grade anodised specification or specify 316 stainless steel instead.
System Description
The anodised aluminium drip angle is a commodity building products item used extensively in Australian balcony and roof waterproofing applications as a basic membrane edge termination profile at exposed slab edges and soffits. It is not a branded proprietary system — multiple Australian manufacturers and importers supply equivalent profiles to a similar specification. The drip angle provides a simple, low-cost method for terminating a waterproofing membrane at an exposed slab edge: the upstand leg is set into the bed or adhesive over the membrane turn-down, and the nosing leg creates a drip edge at the slab underside to prevent rainwater from tracking back under the slab. The profile protects the membrane edge from UV degradation and physical damage and provides a neat finish to the membrane termination. Standard sizes are available in various leg dimensions — typically 20mm × 25mm to 40mm × 40mm — in standard anodised silver or mill finish. The drip angle is a straightforward, budget-grade approach to membrane edge termination — it is not a multi-part concealed system like the Demtech BET or Schlüter BARA, and it does not incorporate a tile anchor flange or adjustable projection mechanism.
Technical Properties
- Standard anodised or mill-finish aluminium extruded profile — typical leg dimensions 20×25mm to 40×40mm
- Provides a drip edge at the slab underside — prevents rainwater from tracking under the slab at the membrane termination
- Used as a basic membrane edge termination detail — upstand leg protects and conceals the membrane turn-down
- Widely available nationally from waterproofing and building products suppliers — commodity pricing
- Compatible with liquid-applied and sheet membrane systems — no proprietary accessories required
Limitations
- Standard anodised finish is a basic corrosion protection grade only — not suitable for severe marine environments or within 1 km of the coast without confirming the anodising specification
- Not a multi-part concealed system — does not incorporate adjustable projection, tile anchor flange, or concealed fastener mechanism
- Dimensional selection must suit the membrane turn-down and slab edge geometry — standard sizes may not suit all applications
- End terminations of the drip angle must be sealed to prevent water ingress behind the profile
- Selection should be based on leg dimensions, aluminium gauge, and anodised specification — not brand name, as multiple equivalent products exist
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Confirm suitability with the current manufacturer TDS before specifying or applying.
Custom 316 Stainless Steel Edge Trim
Custom fabricated 316L stainless steel balcony edge trim — coastal / severe environment
Fabricated 316L (marine grade) stainless steel balcony edge trim — profiled to project requirements by a qualified sheet metal fabricator — specified for coastal environments and buildings within 1 km of the ocean
Specifier Note
Always specify 316L grade (marine grade austenitic stainless steel), not 304 grade. In coastal environments within 1 km of the ocean, 304 stainless will show surface staining, pitting, and corrosion streaking within 2–3 years. 316L has increased molybdenum content (2–3%) which significantly improves resistance to chloride-induced corrosion. Require a material test certificate from the fabricator confirming 316L grade.
System Description
Custom 316L stainless steel balcony edge trims are fabricated to project-specific profiles by a qualified sheet metal fabricator and are the appropriate specification for Class 2 strata buildings in coastal locations, particularly those within 1 km of the ocean or subject to regular salt spray. 316L (low-carbon, molybdenum-alloyed austenitic stainless) has significantly higher resistance to chloride-induced pitting and crevice corrosion than 304 grade stainless steel. In Australian coastal environments, 304 grade stainless steel will typically show surface staining, pitting, and corrosion streaking within 2–3 years of installation, while 316L provides a service life consistent with the waterproofing system's design life. Profile design must be coordinated with the structural engineer and waterproofing applicator — the trim must accommodate the specified membrane turn-down, tile build-up, drainage geometry, and aesthetic requirements. Fixings must also be 316 stainless steel — galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals at the fixing interface will accelerate corrosion even in an otherwise correctly specified trim. All welded joints must be passivated after fabrication. Custom fabrication lead times and cost are higher than proprietary aluminium systems — programme and budget must allow for this. For extreme environments (direct ocean spray, swimming pool decks with high chlorine exposure), 2205 duplex stainless steel or Zeron 100 should be considered instead of 316L.
Technical Properties
- 316L grade (low-carbon marine grade) austenitic stainless steel — significantly higher chloride corrosion resistance than 304 grade
- Custom profiled to project requirements — accommodates any membrane turn-down dimension, tile build-up, and drainage geometry
- All fixings must be 316 stainless steel — galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals must be avoided
- Welded joints must be passivated after fabrication — passivation removes iron contamination and restores the passive oxide layer
- Appropriate for coastal buildings within 1 km of the ocean — use where aluminium powder coat or standard anodising is not suitable
- For extreme exposure (direct ocean spray, high-chlorine pool decks) — consider 2205 duplex or Zeron 100 instead
Limitations
- Custom fabrication lead times and cost are higher than proprietary aluminium systems — programme and cost plan must allow for this
- 316L grade, not 304 grade — confirm material certification from the fabricator — do not accept substitution with 304 grade in coastal applications
- All fixings, bolts, and ancillary metalwork at the trim interface must also be 316 stainless — mixed metals will accelerate corrosion
- Welded joints must be passivated after fabrication — failure to passivate leaves iron contamination that initiates rust staining
- Custom profile design must be reviewed by the waterproofing consultant — incorrect profile geometry can compromise membrane termination
- For buildings with extreme salt spray exposure (front-row ocean-facing), specify a corrosion consultant review before finalising the material grade
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Confirm suitability with the current manufacturer TDS before specifying or applying.
System Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of the five balcony edge trim profiles covered on this page. Confirm all product selections against the current manufacturer TDS before specifying.
| Product | Brand | Material | Width range | End cap | Coastal grade | Primary use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Demtech BET Series | Demtech | Extruded aluminium — powder coat | Adjustable | Required — confirm with Demtech | Confirm marine powder coat with Demtech | Concealed-fix perimeter trim — all membrane types |
| Schlüter BARA-RAK / BARA-RAKO | Schlüter Systems | Anodised aluminium | 40–200mm tile cover | BARA-RAK: no | BARA-RAKO: yes | Confirm anodising grade with Schlüter | Tile anchor profile — balcony perimeter — prevents edge chipping |
| Amark All-Edge | Amark | Extruded aluminium — powder coat / anodised | Multiple profiles — confirm | Confirm with Amark | Confirm with Amark | Concealed-fix perimeter trim — multiple configurations |
| Anodised Drip Angle | Trade supply — various | Anodised aluminium | Standard sizes — 20×25 to 40×40mm | N/A — open profile | Standard anodising only — not coastal rated | Basic membrane drip edge — soffit and slab edge termination |
| Custom 316 SS Trim | Custom fabrication | 316L stainless steel | Custom to project | Custom fabricated | Marine grade — suitable within 1 km of ocean | Coastal / severe environment — custom fabricated perimeter trim |
Always install edge trim before membrane application
Balcony edge trims must be installed and fixed to the substrate before the waterproofing membrane is applied — not after. The membrane must lap under or behind the base section of the trim to create a waterproof seal at the edge. Installing the trim after the membrane is applied results in a non-waterproof detail that will fail at the junction. Confirm the installation sequence with the trim manufacturer and waterproofing applicator before work commences.
Specify 316L stainless steel for all coastal locations
Standard aluminium powder coat and standard anodised finishes are not appropriate for buildings within 1 km of the ocean or in severe salt air environments. Specify 316L (marine grade, molybdenum-alloyed) stainless steel — not 304 grade — for any coastal application. 304 grade stainless will show pitting, rust staining, and surface corrosion within 2–3 years in coastal environments. Always require a material test certificate from the fabricator confirming 316L grade.
Disclaimer
This page provides general technical information only. Final product selection must be confirmed against the current manufacturer technical data sheet, project specification, membrane system compatibility, coastal exposure zone assessment, tile thickness and adhesive bed depth, NCC requirements, and waterproofing consultant advice. Balcony edge trims must be installed before the waterproofing membrane is applied. Grade 316 stainless steel is required for marine-exposed locations. Do not rely on this reference as a substitute for professional waterproofing consultant advice.