With Spring Comes Heavy Planters

We are often asked about weight limitations for balconies, particularly with regard to the allowable sizes and weights of plants that may be put on the balconies.  The simple answer is that it depends on exactly how the balcony was designed and built.  In general, plants that are placed on balconies should not be so large or heavy that they cannot be readily moved by the average size adult.

This would generally mean that an individual plant (with its pot, soil, etc.) should not weigh more than a normal adult (about 200 pounds).  Plants with this type of weight limitation can often be placed throughout the balcony surface as long as a clean space of about two feet is provided between them.

Please remember that each case may vary.  If you are concerned, think about having a structural engineer evaluate your specific planter layout.