MJ Engineering Projects supervised remedial works for a concrete-framed tower of ten levels that houses fifty-four apartments above ground-floor shops and offices in Bondi Junction. Serious defects included concrete spalling caused by low reinforcement cover, loose balcony tiles and bedding, deteriorated balustrades, and failing waterproofing to both the podium deck and swimming pool. Delaminating render also posed a falling-debris hazard to the street and commercial frontage. The owners corporation required a programme that would rectify these faults, protect public safety and allow trading to continue at street level.
Project background
A façade and podium survey confirmed that persistent moisture had corroded reinforcement at slab edges and columns, while original balcony membranes and tiles had reached the end of service life. Balustrade fixings were weakened, and pool waterproofing showed multiple leaks into the retail ceiling below. MJ Engineering Projects documented the conditions and produced a remedial works specification in line with National Construction Code provisions. A competitive tender appointed a contractor experienced in balcony and podium rehabilitation, and our team acted as superintendent to certify workmanship and keep residents and tenants informed through weekly notices.
Scope of works
- Repair spalling concrete on façade elements
- Remove and replace all balcony and podium tiles
- Remove and replace balcony balustrades
- Install new waterproofing to podium deck and swimming pool
- Repaint coated façade and soffit elements
- Remove and replace selected windows and doors
Key challenges and solutions
Public safety along the retail frontage
Render delamination risked debris falling onto footpaths and shop entries. Protective gantries were installed before work commenced, and high-level concrete repairs proceeded from swing stages during early trade hours to limit inconvenience.
Balcony and podium waterproofing
Existing membranes had failed, allowing water to track into apartments and the car park. After tile removal, substrates were prepared and a sheet membrane installed with upturns at balustrade posts and door thresholds. New porcelain tiles were bedded on a sand-cement screed laid to compliant falls, restoring watertightness.
Balustrade compliance
Ageing aluminium rails no longer met current load requirements. New powder-coated aluminium systems were fitted, anchored above the waterproof layer and sealed at penetrations to prevent future leaks.
Swimming-pool leaks
Waterproofing of the rooftop pool required full drainage and drying. A liquid membrane compatible with pool chemicals was applied to the shell, followed by new tiles. Leak tests confirmed integrity before the pool reopened to residents.
Commercial access during works
Ground-floor shops remained open throughout the project. Material deliveries were scheduled before 8.00 am, and noisy demolition tasks finished by midday. Clear directional signage guided customers around temporary scaffold zones.
Conclusion
The Bondi Junction remedial works programme restored structural integrity, balcony safety and podium waterproofing without interrupting retail operations. Concrete spalls are repaired, new membranes protect living spaces and commercial areas, balustrades comply with current standards and refreshed coatings give the building a uniform, durable finish.
For more remedial works examples visit our blog or contact the remedial works team to discuss balcony, façade or waterproofing upgrades for your property.
