Hi, I have an open balcony and I want to prepare it for the Mumbai rains. What type of flexible covering can I use to cover the balcony during rains and take it down post monsoons?

Hi I have a holiday home in Shimla and we're currently constructing an extended outdoor bar area. What kind of roofing solutions can I look at - I want materials that would be suitable to the climate and also look good.

I've been thinking of getting my roof relaid, as we live in an old, ancestral home. How much would it cost? Could you give me an idea?

Shimla i think the climate favours you do have fairly biased fascade or setup for your Bar area i think you should have a opening to the bar with a glass or awning shade. If you could go for glass the temperature could be controlled with the extended room setting of your house. Also awning is easily maintainable, which you gives you a further use of a outdoor fireplace.

anitasurve

There are a couple of ways you can do this.

One is to have a grilled cover on top, akin to a pergola that you can beautify with greens. This will keep the place relatively cooler, as well as protect from intruders. This is a more economical option.

The second would be to have a retractable roof, which can be mechanically opened or closed as required.

vedikaseth

Bombay rains are harsh! The one thing you can do is use flexible covers that work similar to roller blinds, and are transparent which allows the light to enter. There are many companies that offer such a product. Just choose one where the installation is easy and taking down the sheets is not an issue once the rains are over. Do keep in mind however that the water will still enter the balcony, you will simply be reducing the force of rains, and will require a water outlet.

Rita Bhatia

Not knowing the general aesthetic of the home, it is a bit difficult to suggest material that would be in sync with your place.

In general I would suggest a metallic or a wooden structure with a corrugated sheet or tiles for the roofing. Regardless of the material it is the detailing with which it is made that makes the aesthetic difference so do choose your contractor and vendor carefully.

shweta1234

Its close to impossible to give you an answer without knowing more about the home. What climate is it in, what the current condition, what is it currently made of?

In general as its an old structure, so expect surprises once the current flooring is ripped open. Would be prudent to budget a bit more than whatever the contractor initially estimates.

Preeti Anjani Jhamb

Yes, but with regular maintenance it should be OK. Moreover, general wear and tear does has its own charm.

Depending on where this stair is, you could consider a metal structure with stone treads as well.

Preeti Anjani Jhamb Good question! this week's topic is [Staircase design[(https://www.houzz.in/discussions/ask-the-houzz-experts-staircase-design-closed-dsvw-vd~5290918?n=12), please follow the link and post your query under the current discussion!