Project Portfolio: Waterproof Walkout Balcony & Guttering (Perthshire)

Project Overview

• System: DIY Kit-Form Walkout Balcony

• Location: Pitlochry, Perthshire (Scenic Highlands)

• Key Innovation: Under-slung steel drainage trays with integrated front-edge guttering.

• Finishes: RAL Powder-coated frame, composite decking, and brushed stainless steel glass balustrades.

Creating a "Dry Zone": Two-Tier Living in the Scottish Highlands

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Perthshire hills, this property required more than just a standard balcony; it needed a weather-proof solution to protect the lower deck area. Dio-Met supplied a bespoke, kit-form walkout balcony engineered with an integrated drainage system that transforms the space beneath into a functional, dry outdoor area.

• Under-Slung Steel Trays: Beneath the composite decking, we installed a series of under-drawn steel trays. These collect rainwater passing through the deck boards and channel it safely away from the house into a guttering system.

• Front-Edge Guttering: The water is directed into a sleek, matching guttering system at the front of the ring beam. This prevents the "curtain of rain" effect, keeping the lower patio area dry even in heavy downpours.

• Seamless Continuity: Having completed the upper level, the client returned to Dio-Met for a matching System 1 Glass Balustrade for the lower perimeter, creating a unified architectural look across both levels.

• Built for the Elements: With galvanized and powder-coated steelwork, this structure is designed to withstand high-moisture environments without the risk of corrosion.

Technical Expert Insight: Solving the "Drip-Through" Problem

Most standard walkout balconies are "open-joist," meaning water falls directly onto the area below. For this Perthshire project, we utilized an Innovative Under-Drawing System. The challenge with steel drainage trays is ensuring they have a slight, invisible pitch to move water toward the gutter without creating a bulky profile. We factory-slope the tray supports so that gravity does the work, preventing standing water and ensuring the lower deck remains a premium, usable space in all seasons. By integrating the guttering into the structural ring beam, we maintain the sleek aesthetic Dio-Met is known for while providing 100% water management. It is a result of decades of research into structural steelwork and weatherproofing, ensuring the system is fully UKCA certified.

Explore More from Dio-Met

• See All Projects: View our Full Case Study Gallery

• DIY Kits: Browse our Ready-to-Install Walkout Balcony Kits or Contact us for an Installation Quote

• The Next Step: Why not add a Staircase or an Glass Floor Panel?