With the growing emphasis on mixed-use development in the GTHA as an effective way to create spaces where residents can not only live in, but also work and engage with their community, balconies are an important feature for livability. As new innovations in balcony technology continue to emerge, United Kingdom-based balcony manufacturer Sapphire Balconies, is one of the companies leading the way, and their innovations are making a bold entrance into the Canadian residential construction market.

Examples of the aluminum balconies, image from Sapphire Balconies

On Thursday, July 13, the family firm is set to host a pivotal event at their Showroom in Concord, Ontario, known as "The Balcony Showdown". This event will be as much a showcase as it is a challenge, as Sapphire will demonstrate the efficiency, dependability, and potential of aluminum as a construction material.

The firm has its eyes set on a new Canadian record, with the goal of achieving the highest number of balcony installations in a single day, utilizing their innovative lightweight aluminum balconies. The system, referred to as the Glide-On balcony, is touted as a viable replacement for the more traditional concrete and steel-framed bolt-on balconies, offering a quicker installation process and a more sustainable composition.

Examples of the aluminum balconies, image from Sapphire Balconies

Planned for 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the event is to be held at Antamex Industries ULC at 210 Great Gulf Drive #1. The highlight of the event will be a live demonstration of a balcony installation, during which attendees will witness the setup of a traditional concrete balcony alongside the repeated installation, removal, and reinstallation of a prefabricated aluminum balcony. This presentation aims to showcase the efficiency and versatility of aluminum balconies compared to their concrete counterparts.

In addition to the live demonstration, the event will feature informative Lunch & Learn sessions, interactive 'Ask the Expert' Q&A sessions, and an exclusive tour of Sapphire’s showroom premises. These sessions will provide attendees with valuable insights into the use of aluminum in balcony construction and its sustainability benefits.

Looking upwards to the balcony soffits, image from Sapphire Balconies

The event is expected to be a learning experience for attendees, offering them a glimpse into the innovative technology behind lightweight aluminum balconies. It aims to broaden the understanding of alternative materials and unique balcony systems, fostering connections and encouraging a shift in the Canadian market towards more sustainable practices.

Sapphire Balconies has been a vocal advocate for rethinking sustainability processes in the residential industry to mitigate the climate crisis. This event will underscore the advantages of adopting an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) vision and will spotlight current and future innovations in the construction sector.

View from the ground of a tower with Sapphire's Glide-On balconies, image from Sapphire Balconies

Sapphire Balconies, with its specialization in lightweight aluminum balconies for high-rise residential projects, is aiming to be at the forefront of sustainable construction practices. Visit their website or contact them at support@balconies.global for more information.

UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on this event, but in the meantime, you can join in on the conversation by leaving a comment in the space provided on this page.

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