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The Balcony Blacklist: 11 Product Categories to Avoid Storing


The Balcony Blacklist: 11 Product Categories to Avoid Storing

Like many apartment dwellers, you may be looking for ways to maximize your living space and make the most of your balcony.

However, it’s important to remember that balconies are not meant to be storage areas, and certain products should not be placed on them. This blog post will provide a list of 11 product categories you should avoid storing on your balcony for the safety and comfort of yourself and others. Keep reading to learn more about what not to put on your balcony and why.

1. Flammable materials

Storing flammable items on the balcony

Extremely combustible items such as gasoline, propane tanks, aerosol cans, and fireworks should never be kept on balconies due to the threat of fire.

Why should you not store flammable items on your balcony?


  • Risk of fire: Highly combustible materials, such as gasoline and fireworks, can easily ignite when exposed to heat or flame. If a fire occurs on your balcony, it may spread quickly throughout the building putting yourself and others in danger. Be mindful of these flammable items so you can prevent this kind of disaster from occurring.
  • Chemical reactions: Some items that can easily catch fire can release hazardous vapors or gases when exposed to heat or flames. These reactions can create toxic fumes and powerful explosions, which can be extremely dangerous to breathe in or be close to. Stay safe by keeping these materials away from any sources of heat or flame.
  • Storage regulations: It’s important to remember that many apartment buildings and complexes have strict regulations regarding storing flammable materials on balconies. This is for everyone’s safety, so please ensure you know the rules and keep flammables securely stored away.

2. Heavy objects

Storing refigerator on the balcony

Products like hot tubs, large appliances, and heavy furniture can be too heavy for your balcony to support. You should avoid placing these items on the balcony as they could cause damage.

Why should you not store heavy objects on your balcony?


  • Weight limits: It’s important to remember that balconies aren’t designed to carry the weight of heavy items, such as furniture and appliances. Adding too much extra strain on the structure of your balcony could cause collapse.
  • Damage to the balcony: Using heavy objects on your balcony can cause damage to the floor or railings, such as cracking or denting. This can weaken its structure and reduce its safety, so it’s essential to be mindful of how much weight you put on your balcony.
  • Inconvenience: Moving or removing heavy objects from a balcony can be tricky, especially when the balcony is small or has limited access.

3. Wet items

Storing wet items on the balcony

Keep balconies free of wet items such as mops, towels, and paint; these can be a slipping hazard and could cause someone to fall. Plus, chemicals like paint could damage the balcony or building if wet.

Why should you not store wet items on your balcony?


  • Risk of slipping: Wet items such as towels, clothes, or shoes can create a slipping hazard, so it’s best to avoid leaving them outside when the surface is wet and slippery, especially if your balcony is high up!
  • Damage to the balcony: To protect your balcony, please ensure not to leave wet items on its surface. This includes towels, clothes, and shoes, which can cause staining or discoloration if left to dry. Wet shoes may also track in dirt and debris that could further damage the balcony.
  • Pest attraction: Wet items outside can attract pests like mosquitoes, flies, and ants. Try to keep your outdoor areas dry to avoid a nuisance for yourself and your neighbors.

4. Loud or noisy items

Storing speaker on the balcony

Please keep balconies free from loud or noisy items such as speakers or musical instruments. This helps preserve the peace of all our residents.

Why should you not store loud or noisy items on your balcony?


  • Disturbance to neighbors: Noisy items such as speakers, musical instruments, or exercise equipment can disrupt your neighbors. If your balcony is close to other units or the sound can be heard from inside the building, please be mindful of the noise levels and take measures to reduce any disruption.
  • Noise pollution: Noise pollution from loud or noisy items affects people who live or work nearby and wildlife.
  • Legal consequences: Cities and communities may have laws regulating noise production in residential areas; violating these laws can result in fines or legal action.

5. Hazardous materials

Storing pesticides on the balcony

Hazardous materials such as chemicals, pesticides, and explosives should not be stored on balconies due to their potential risks to people and the environment.

Why should you not store hazardous materials on your balcony?


  • Risk of injury: It’s important to keep hazardous materials, such as chemicals, pesticides, and explosives, away from children and pets. Storing these items on the balcony can be risky and lead to accidents or injuries.
  • Environmental damage: Pesticides and chemicals can be dangerous to the environment if released or spilled, as they can contaminate soil and water and release toxic fumes into the air. It is essential to take necessary precautions when handling hazardous materials to avoid any potential harm to nature.
  • Legal consequences: Hazardous materials storage may be prohibited in residential areas; storing these items on a balcony could incur fines or legal action.

6. Perishable or spoiled food

Storing spoiled foods on the balcony

Storing perishable or spoiled food on the balcony isn’t a good idea since it can attract pests and create unpleasant odors.

Why should you not store perishable or spoiled food on your balcony?


  • Pest attraction: Spoiled or perishable food can easily attract pests like rats, mice, or insects. This can be a nuisance to you and your neighbors, spread diseases, and cause damage to the building or balcony.
  • Odor: If your balcony is enclosed or the odor can be detected inside the building, spoiled food can produce an unpleasant smell that may be bothersome to you and your neighbors.
  • Waste: Storing perishable or spoiled food on the balcony can lead to waste and clutter, which isn’t pleasant to look at and can make your living space unhealthy.

7. Electronics

Storing electronics on the balcony

Keep your electronics safe and dry by storing them indoors. Balconies can be exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture, which could damage them. Protect your valuable items by keeping them inside!

Why should you not store electronics on your balcony?


  • Moisture: It’s best to store electronics away from humid areas such as balconies, as moisture can cause damage and lead to expensive repairs or replacements.
  • Temperature: Electronics don’t do well in extreme temperatures, so it’s best to avoid storing them on a balcony where temperature changes can cause them to malfunction or break down.
  • Security: Storing electronics on your balcony can leave them vulnerable to theft or damage from vandalism.

8. Items that can block the view

Storing items on the balcony that blocking the view

Balconies are not used to store items that can block other residents’ views. This includes large objects such as furniture or decorations, as they can limit natural light and airflow.

Why should you not store items that can block the view on your balcony?


  • Interference with natural airflow: Placing items on the balcony can disrupt air circulation and make your living environment less comfortable.
  • Disruption of the view: If your balcony is shared or has a great view, be considerate of others and keep it free of clutter. This will help ensure that everyone can enjoy the space.
  • Aesthetic concerns: Placing items on your balcony can detract from its appearance and impact the overall aesthetic of your building.

9. Items that can create a mess

Messy balcony

Keep balconies clear of items that may create an unappealing appearance, such as dirty laundry, wet towels, or sand from beach trips.

Why should you not store items that can create a mess on your balcony?


  • Unsightly appearance: Keep balcony items contained and stored correctly to avoid creating an untidy appearance. Dirty laundry, wet towels, and sand from beach trips can make the balcony look messy or unsightly.
  • Difficulty cleaning: Keeping a balcony clean can be difficult, especially if it is small or hard to access. This may mean messes are harder to manage, and the space isn’t as tidy as desired.
  • Pest attraction: Leaving items lying around on the balcony can attract pests like flies and ants, which can annoy you and your neighbors.

10. Items that can obstruct emergency exits

Heavy table blocking the emergency exit

Balconies must be kept clear of obstructions such as furniture or large decorations to ensure easy access to emergency exits in case of an emergency.

Why should you not store items that can obstruct emergency exits on your balcony?


  • Safety concerns: Items placed on the balcony can obstruct emergency exits, making it difficult to access or escape in an emergency. To prevent this safety hazard, ensure items are properly stored and secured.
  • Legal consequences: If you store items on your balcony that could block an emergency exit, you may break local laws and face penalties. Keep all exits clear at all times to comply with regulations.
  • Insurance implications: Leaving items that obstruct emergency exits on your balcony may invalidate your insurance coverage if an emergency occurs and the exits are blocked. Consider this when deciding where to store these items.

11. Items that can cause injury

Storing sharp tools on the balcony

Balconies can be dangerous if used to store sharp or improperly secured items. To ensure safety, please ensure any items stored on your balcony are secure and do not pose a risk of injury.

Why should you not store items that can cause injury on your balcony?


  • Risk of falling: Secure items on your balcony to prevent them from falling – especially if the balcony is high up or the items are sharp.
  • Risk of injury: Use caution when handling or using items on your balconies, such as tools, paints, and solvents. Improper use of these items can result in injury.
  • Liability concerns: If an item stored on your balcony causes an injury to someone, you may be responsible for any resulting damages or injuries.

Conclusion


Balconies are a great space for fresh air and sunshine, but keeping safety in mind when storing items on your balcony is important.

To ensure everyone’s well-being, avoid storing items that could create a mess, obstruct emergency exits, or cause injury. With these regulations in mind, you can enjoy your outdoor space while staying organized and safe. Have fun!

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Zoltan Szatmari

Zoltan is a test and industrial engineer from Europe who loves learning anything new and working on small projects. When he is not working, he is usually hiking or going to the cinema.

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