Quick Answer
For a basic 20 foot long balloon arch, you will need approximately 200-300 balloons. The exact number can vary based on the size and style of the arch. As a general estimate, plan for 10-15 balloons per foot of length for a single-layer arch.
Calculating Balloons Needed
To determine how many balloons you need for a 20 foot arch, there are a few factors to consider:
Arch Length
The most basic factor is the length of the arch. For standard latex balloons, plan for 10-15 balloons per linear foot. So for a 20 foot long arch, you would need:
– 10 balloons x 20 feet = 200 balloons
– 15 balloons x 20 feet = 300 balloons
So for a basic 20 foot arch, you’ll need 200-300 balloons just for the length.
Arch Width and Layers
The next consideration is the width and number of layers in the arch. Wider and multi-layer arches require more balloons.
For a single layer arch 1-2 feet wide, no additional balloons are needed beyond the length. But for wider arches:
– 2-3 feet wide: Add 50 more balloons
– 3-4 feet wide: Add 100 more balloons
And for multi-layer arches:
– Double layer: Double the balloons
– Triple layer: Triple the balloons
So if you wanted a triple layer arch 2 feet wide, you would need:
– 300 balloons for the length
– 200 balloons for triple layer
– 50 balloons for 2 feet wide
For a total of 550 balloons.
Balloon Size
The size of balloons used also impacts the amount needed. Standard sizes:
– 12 inch: These are the most common and recommended
– 16 inch: Require slightly fewer balloons but may be trickier to work with
– 9 inch: Require more balloons for the same arch length
Stick with 12 inch as the standard size for most arches. Only use 16 inch if you want slightly larger balloons or need to reduce the number.
Balloon Type
Latex and foiled balloons are the two main types:
– Latex: Recommended for most arches. More flexible and easier to work with. Require more balloons than foiled.
– Foiled: Hold helium better but are less flexible. Require fewer balloons but are trickier to work with.
For cost and flexibility, standard latex balloons are best for most basic arches. Only use foiled if you need them to stay inflated longer.
Estimating Formula
Based on these factors, here is a simple formula to estimate balloons needed:
(Arch length in feet x balloons per foot)
+ Additional balloons for width/layers
For example:
(20 feet x 12 balloons per foot) = 240 balloons
+ 50 balloons for 2 foot width
= 290 total balloons
This formula gives you a good starting estimate, but you may need to adjust up or down once you start building.
Extra Balloons for Breakage and Backup
It’s always a good idea to get 5-10% extra balloons beyond your estimate to allow for breakage and as backup:
– Damaged/broken balloons: Around 5-10% can pop or have leaks during inflation and assembly.
– Backup: Having extra inflated balloons makes it easy to swap out and replace any that pop after assembly.
For a 290 balloon arch, you may want to have 15-30 extra balloons on hand just in case.
Balloon Inflation
Once you’ve calculated how many balloons you need, the next step is inflation. Here are some tips:
– Use an electric balloon pump. It will make inflation much easier and faster.
– Under-inflate balloons slightly to allow for tying and adjustments during assembly.
– Inflate backup balloons in advance so they are ready if needed.
– Check each balloon for leaks and inspect thoroughly during inflation. Discard any with damage or leaks.
Arch Assembly
The fun part is now assembling all the balloons into your arch shape! Here are some tips:
Base Structure
– Use a sturdy base that can securely hold the arch, like PVC pipe or wood.
– Make sure base is properly weighted and secured so it does not tip.
– Position base in location before starting balloon assembly.
Anchoring Balloons
– Anchor the first balloons to the base using ribbon or balloon tape. This helps stabilize the first layer.
– Interlace ribbons through balloons the entire length of the arch for security.
– Allow enough slack so balloons can move – don’t pull ribbons too tight.
Adding Layers
– Start with a single line of balloons as the first layer.
– Add additional rows above in the same pattern.
– Offset each layer so rows interlock for stability.
– Take care when adding layers to prevent breakage.
Shaping the Arch
– Shape the arch how you want as you assemble rows.
– Curve rows gently – avoid kinks which stress balloons.
– Stand back periodically to check shape and make adjustments.
Filling Gaps
– Review entire arch when done and fill any visible gaps by adding extra balloons.
– This helps create a full, lush arch shape with no missing spots.
Prepping Arch for Display
Once assembly is complete, a few final steps will get your arch ready for display:
Securing Base
– Check base is still weighted properly and not at risk of tipping when in place.
– Make sure any parts extending to ground are taped or padded to avoid tripping hazards.
Inspecting Balloons
– Visually inspect each balloon and replace any that look underinflated or damaged.
– Tape or tie down any loose or protruding ribbons.
Transporting Arch
– Carefully move assembled arch to display location if needed.
– Move slowly and gently to prevent breakage. Have helpers assist.
– Recommend transporting on a wheeled dolly if needing to move any distance.
Displaying Balloon Arch
When it’s time for guests to arrive, a few tips will maximize the impact:
Choosing Location
– Position arch in a spot with open space around it so guests can view and walk through.
– Have the area around the arch clear of furniture or other items.
Up-lighting (optional)
– Use uplighting on both sides to create a glow and highlight arch shape.
– Uplighting adds drama and dimension for photos.
Announcing the Arch
– Have the DJ or host announce when the arch is revealed and open for photos.
– This cues guests to check it out and capture Instagram-worthy moments.
Maintaining the Arch During Event
To keep your balloon arch looking great throughout the event:
Monitoring Shape
– Check shape periodically and adjust any balloons that look loose or sagging.
– Add reinforcing ribbons if needed to hold shape.
Preventing Damage
– Keep sharp objects away which could accidentally pop balloons.
– Discourage guests from aggressively pulling on balloons or ribbons.
Touch-ups
– Immediately replace any balloons that pop or deflate with your backup inflated balloons.
– If any ribbons come undone, re-tie them right away before more anchoring is lost.
After the Event
Once your event concludes, there are a few options for balloon removal:
Take Down Immediately
– Remove all balloons and take arch apart entirely after the event ends. This prevents loose balloons.
Leave Overnight
– If not feasible to dismantle right away, leave arch in place overnight and remove the next morning.
– This risks more balloons coming loose so monitor area for strays.
Outdoor Events
– For outdoor spaces, make sure balloons are well secured and won’t blow away as they deflate.
– Or take down immediately following event before winds can dislodge them.
Disposing of Balloons
– Pop balloons once removed so they cannot blow away then dispose properly.
– Many communities require popped latex balloons to be put in the trash, not recycling.
Key Tips for Balloon Arches
To summarize the key tips for a successful balloon arch:
Plan Ahead
– Calculate the number of balloons needed based on arch size and shape. Get 5-10% extra.
Use Electric Pump
– Inflate balloons with an electric pump for speed and consistency.
Anchor Securely
– Anchor balloons firmly to a base structure and interlace ribbons through entire arch.
Add Layers Gradually
– Start with a single line of balloons and add rows above one layer at a time.
Reinforce Over Time
– As event continues, add reinforcing ribbons as needed in weak spots.
Monitor and Replace
– Watch for problem areas and immediately swap out balloons that deflate or pop.
Conclusion
The magic number for a basic 20 foot balloon arch is approximately 200-300 regular sized latex balloons. But the exact amount can vary based on the arch shape, layers, and width. For best results, carefully calculate balloons needed based on the total length and dimensions, get extra for breakage, and use strong anchoring techniques when assembling the arch. With some advance planning and attention to detail throughout setup and display, your balloon arch is sure to turn out beautifully and become a highlight of any special event!
