Winter Is Coming: Book Deck Waterproofing in Los Angeles

Zero CompanyWaterproofing

The weather in might be clear and sunny with nary a cloud in the sky, but winter rain will be here before you know it, and this is the perfect time to schedule deck waterproofing in Los Angeles. At Thome Waterproofing, we can provide any type of deck waterproofing or deck coating that you might need.

When we talk about deck waterproofing, this can involve several different substrates as well as types of “decks.” Whether you have a concrete pool deck or patio, a roof deck, or a balcony at any level of a home, these structures all face the same underlying enemy – water intrusion.

With Southern California’s combination of intense summer sun and seasonal winter storms, deck waterproofing in Los Angeles is not a one-size-fits-all job. Wood deck coating, concrete deck coatings, and pool deck coatings can help protect surfaces from moisture, UV exposure, and everyday wear. Depending on the condition of the deck, these services may involve cleaning, repairs, surface preparation, and the application of a compatible coating system.

Roof deck and balcony waterproofing can be more involved because these structures may be located above living spaces, garages, or other areas that must remain dry. Depending on the deck’s design and condition, the project may require removing portions of the surrounding stucco, repairing or installing flashing, and correcting the slope so water flows toward drains or scuppers. Drainage improvements and the installation of a complete waterproofing system may also be necessary to provide long-term protection.

Signs That Indicate You Need Deck Waterproofing

In general, all types of decking materials, aside from some synthetic substrates such as PVC or composite decking, will need waterproofing at some point. Here are some signs that your deck needs waterproofing services.

  1. Cracks In Tile or Grout

If you have a balcony or roof deck, hairline cracks often are the first entry point for water in the structural slab below. This water can migrate far beyond the crack area and damage the waterproofing membrane below.

When providing deck waterproofing services, we often recommend removing existing tile because cracked tiles, deteriorated grout, and failed joints can allow water to reach the materials below. We can then install a waterproof membrane followed by multiple compatible layers, such as polyurethane or elastomeric coatings. The finished surface can be tinted to enhance the deck’s appearance while helping protect it from water intrusion, UV exposure, and everyday wear.

  1. Cracks in Concrete

Concrete pool decks and the surrounding patios can take a beating from constant water exposure, as well as UV exposure and pool chemicals. Over time, this can cause the surface layer to flake or crack. We recommend applying a waterproof deck coating to all concrete decks about every 2-4 years, as this can prevent cracks and protect the concrete from water and UV exposure.

  1. Efflorescence

These are white, chalky mineral deposits and are a classic sign that water is actively moving through decking material and evaporating, leaving mineral deposits behind. You might notice this on roof decks and balconies, as well as on concrete deck materials.

  1. Water Damage Below the Deck

If the deck was built on the structure of the home, such as a roof deck, you may notice signs of water intrusion on the ceiling below. While an actual leak is an obvious sign, if you notice any staining or bubbling and peeling paint, this indicates that water has seeped through the decking materials into the structure of your home. 

  1. Discoloration & Staining

Waterproof deck coatings can prevent staining on both wood and concrete decking materials. When you begin to notice staining, it’s definitely time to contact a waterproofing contractor to clean and recoat the surface of your deck. 

  1. Water Is Pooling Up

If you notice standing water on your deck more than 20 minutes after rain or hosing it down, the waterproof membrane has likely worn away, and the wood or concrete has lost its ability to shed water. 

  1. Mold & Musty Smells

In homes where decks are built above garages or living spaces, you may begin to notice musty smells or signs of mildew or mold. As with signs like staining and discoloration, this indicates that water is already seeping under the deck and into the structure.

With a wood deck not built above a home, you also still might see signs of mold or mildew, which indicates the sealant has worn off the surface of your deck. You may also see signs such as nails or screws popping up or boards that feel loose or spongy. These are all classic signs of water damage, and need to be addressed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.

Additional Winterizing Tips

In addition to ensuring that your balconies and decks are waterproofed, it’s also smart to handle a few other tasks as summer winds down and we head into autumn. These include:

  • Gutter & Downspout Cleaning
  • Drain Inspections
  • Roof Inspections
  • Tree Trimming (Remove dead branches or branches touching the home structure)
  • Seal Windows & Doors
  • Crawlspace Inspections

Taking care of all of these tasks can ensure that you make it through the winter months without serious damage to your home. Water intrusion can be extremely costly to fix and can cause mold accumulation and attract pests such as termites.

If you have a crawlspace foundation, check this area for signs of dampness. If it’s musty even in the hot summer months, it is wise to consider crawlspace waterproofing. For this, we recommend complete encapsulation, and we are experts at this type of foundation waterproofing.

This process involves sealing the entire crawlspace with a heavy-duty moisture barrier to prevent vapor and water intrusion. Often, if you notice signs of mold and mildew in your home or persistent musty smells, this is a sign that your crawlspace is damp. Encapsulation not only protects the structure of your home and can prevent costly repairs, but it also can improve energy efficiency and your home’s air quality in general.

Schedule Waterproofing Services Today!

While the summer is still in full swing, it’s easy to forget about preparing for winter rain, but this is the perfect time to schedule deck coating or waterproofing. At Thome Waterproofing, we provide comprehensive deck waterproofing in Los Angeles, Ventura County, and beyond. Whether you are a homeowner or a property manager, we can provide any type of residential or commercial waterproofing service that you might need.