Wondering whether to convert a window to a Juliet balcony?
We understand. It’s a big decision, and certainly one you don’t want to get wrong.
A Juliet balcony is a striking feature that instantly draws the eye, changing the look and feel of a room with its undeniable romantic charm.
Here, we’ll give you an idea of the average cost to replace a window with a Juliet balcony and suggest what you should think about before placing an order.
Want to talk it through? Call us on 0161 241 9872.
Explore our premium range of steel and glass Juliet balconies.
Why convert a window to a Juliet balcony?
You’re not the only asking this question. Lots of homeowners are.
In fact, we wrote about it in our post titled ‘10 reasons people have Juliet balconies’.
Juliet balconies are a popular modern-day architectural detail, providing aesthetic and practical benefits.
When it comes to replacing a window, the benefits of a Juliet balcony include:
- Letting in more natural light
- More fresh air for better ventilation
- Creating a sense of space
- Giving your home wow factor
- Adding value to your property
What to think about before changing a window to a Juliet balcony
If you’re sold on the benefits of a Juliet balcony – and why wouldn’t you be? – there are several things to consider before exploring the stunning range of styles we fabricate here at C&R Direct.
They include:
- Is a Juliet balcony right for your property?
Most types of windows can be converted, but before you start, you should check:
- The width of the opening where the balcony is being installed
- The type of wall your Juliet balcony will be attached to (so you choose the right fittings)
- There’s enough space on either side of the opening for fixings
If the changes you’re planning involve removing walls or adding an extension, then it makes sense to ask an experienced builder to carry out a structural assessment.
- Structural requirements
Fitting a Juliet balcony is usually a straightforward home improvement, but the installation can vary depending on the wall type and where the balcony will be located.
Our handy ‘Guide to installing Juliet balconies’ is a great place to start.
In this scenario, you’ll be removing an existing window and extending the opening to floor level so French doors can be installed.
Your new Juliet balcony can then be fixed to the external wall outside.
Still unsure? Call us. We’d be happy to answer your questions.
- Safety considerations
For your Juliet balcony to be safe and legally compliant, it must be fitted in line with UK Building Regulations.
Key requirements include:
- Minimum barrier height of 1100mm from floor level
- Maximum gap spacing between railings of 100mm
- Secure and appropriate structural fixings
Our post ‘Are Juliet balconies safe?’ explains everything you need to know.
- Measurements
The size of a balcony also impacts its cost; every design is priced per mm, meaning you’ll never pay for more than you actually need!
To convert a window to a Juliet balcony, you’ll need to measure carefully to make sure there’s enough wall space on either side of the new opening for your balcony’s brackets.
Look out for potential obstacles like drainpipes, satellite dishes, external lighting, and cladding that could make things trickier.
If your home has cladding, you may need a custom-made Juliet balcony to get the perfect fit.
That’s where we come in.
Our easy-to-follow measuring guide should help.
Do I need planning permission to install a Juliet balcony?
Provided that your Juliet balcony does not have a platform that you can step out onto, it should be classified as a permitted development, meaning you probably won’t need planning permission.
The only exceptions to this rule are if your home is:
- Listed
- You live in a conservation area, or
- You intend to significantly alter your property’s external appearance
Even if you do need approval, then don’t be put off – for a Juliet balcony, it’s easier than you most think to get it and the process doesn’t take long.
You can contact your Local Planning Authority and ask for advice, before starting a planning application on the Planning Portal website.
How much does it cost to replace a window with a Juliet balcony?
While working out how much it will cost to replace a window with a Juliet balcony, you should factor in the price of:
- Removing the existing window
- Any structural alterations required (for example, making the opening bigger)
- New French doors
- A made-to-measure Juliet balcony
- Labour and installation
The total cost will also be influenced by factors like how much structural work is needed, the size and type of French doors, and of course the Juliet balcony you choose.
For a precise quote, talk to a team member by dialling 0161 241 9872.
Why order your Juliet balcony from C&R Direct?
Ready to take the next step?
With a huge selection of styles to choose from and customisation options available, we make high-quality steel and glass Juliet balconies to fit every budget.
Our selection of made-to-measure Juliet balconies includes styles to suit any property type, from modern apartments to period homes.
All our glass and steel Juliet balconies are fully compliant with the latest UK Building Regulations and built to last.
Feeling overwhelmed and want to talk it through? Call us today on 0161 241 9872.