Why You Need A Waterproofing Contractor In Sunny L.A.

They say it never rains in Southern California, and while our climate does enjoy more than its fair share of sunshine, moisture is still prevalent and can wreak havoc on your home or business. As a waterproofing contractor, I often encounter folks who believe our climate doesn’t necessitate waterproofing, but that’s simply not true. I’ve witnessed firsthand the damage moisture can cause to structures throughout the L.A. area.

Our region’s climate, with its blend of coastal humidity, occasional heavy rains and year-round sunshine creates specific waterproofing challenges for homes and buildings, as well as other structures such as retaining walls, balconies and decks. Here’s a look at some of the challenges we face in So Cal and how a waterproofing contractor can help.

The Challenges of Coastal Humidity

In Los Angeles and its surrounding areas, coastal humidity can be an invisible but potent factor in the gradual deterioration of buildings. Unlike dramatic weather events, humidity’s effects are slow and often overlooked, quietly impacting the structural materials that make up homes and businesses.

Wood, for instance, readily absorbs moisture from the air, leading to swelling, warping, or even rot over time. Other materials, like plaster and untreated masonry, can also weaken as they repeatedly absorb and release moisture, creating a cycle of damage that is especially problematic in areas close to the coast or in L.A. neighborhoods known for high humidity.

A professional waterproofing contractor brings expertise and specialized solutions that address these challenges head-on. One essential strategy is selecting the right waterproofing materials that can withstand the effects of humidity over time. For example, anti-corrosive treatments can be applied to metal elements, while breathable coatings can be used on walls to allow moisture to escape without seeping into the structure itself.

Waterproofing contractors may also install vapor barriers that shield the building from moisture infiltration. These products and techniques, chosen specifically for coastal conditions, not only protect a building’s materials but also improve indoor air quality by reducing mold and mildew growth.

Hiring local waterproofing experts ensures that the unique demands of coastal humidity are considered in every aspect of the waterproofing process. Unlike general contractors who may use one-size-fits-all materials, a waterproofing specialist understands the nuances of humidity’s effects and tailors solutions to ensure durability and lasting protection.

This expertise can mean the difference between a property that requires frequent, costly repairs and one that remains strong and moisture-resistant year after year. By investing in professional waterproofing designed for L.A.’s climate, property owners can feel confident that their buildings or home’s foundation is safeguarded against one of the region’s most pervasive environmental factors.

Heavy Rains & Flood Risks

Although Los Angeles isn’t known for frequent rainfall, when it does rain, it can lead to significant issues for unprotected properties. Heavy rainstorms—common during certain times of the year—can overwhelm properties with flash flooding, leaving crawlspaces, foundations, garages, and lower-level structures at risk of water damage.

Additionally, LA’s unique soil composition, particularly in areas with clay-rich soils, doesn’t absorb water well, causing pooling and creating prime conditions for water intrusion around foundations. Without proper drainage and foundation waterproofing, this pooling can lead to cracks, leaks, and mold growth that compromise both the property’s structure and indoor air quality.

Contacting a professional waterproofing company, such as Thome Waterproofing, provides essential protection against these flood risks as we can install waterproofing systems, drainage systems and barriers specifically designed for LA’s conditions that will protect your home or commercial property.

These solutions may include foundation seals, sump pumps, or French drains to divert water safely away from the property. While basements are uncommon in our area, many homes have a crawlspace, and crawlspace waterproofing and encapsulation can protect your entire structure from water damage.

For homes in flood-prone neighborhoods, contractors might also recommend elevated barriers or moisture-resistant coatings that keep water from penetrating concrete walls or basement floors. With these tailored waterproofing measures in place, property owners can face heavy rain events with confidence, knowing their homes and buildings are prepared to withstand the elements.

Dry Heat & Its Long-Term Effects

LA’s climate is as much about the sun as it is about occasional rain, with prolonged periods of dry heat that can be equally damaging to buildings. Consistent exposure to high temperatures can cause traditional waterproofing materials, such as standard sealants and coatings, to dry out, crack, and lose effectiveness.

This degradation creates openings that allow moisture to seep in, especially during the rare but intense rainy season. Without appropriate waterproofing that can withstand both sun and heat, these minor cracks can evolve into larger vulnerabilities, impacting the structural integrity of a building over time.

Hiring a waterproofing contractor who understands the effects of dry heat is crucial for maintaining effective barriers against moisture. These professionals select materials specifically designed to endure LA’s high temperatures and UV exposure, such as UV-resistant membranes, heat-stable coatings, and elastomeric sealants that maintain flexibility even under constant sun exposure.

By using materials made for LA’s climate, a professional waterproofing contractor ensures that waterproofing installations remain durable and effective, regardless of seasonal temperature shifts. This proactive approach protects buildings year-round, safeguarding them from the wear and tear caused by the Southern California sun.

Keep in mind, your waterproofing contractor can provide you with much more than just foundation waterproofing. The constant sun takes its toll on your decks, balconies and walkways, all of which need to be waterproofed about every two years. At Thome Waterproofing, we can provide you with deck waterproofing, balcony waterproofing, planter waterproofing and even pool deck coatings to protect all of these surfaces from UV and water damage.

Earthquakes & The Need For Waterproofing Services

Seismic shifts can subtly or significantly impact building foundations, causing cracks or movement that allow water intrusion. Waterproofing is especially important in high-risk areas where these small shifts could create vulnerabilities in poorly waterproofed spaces.

Waterproofing contractors trained in earthquake-prone areas can install flexible membranes or structural sealants designed to withstand shifts and maintain waterproof barriers even after minor quakes.

Need A Waterproofing Contractor Near Me?

If you’ve been searching the web for a “waterproofing contractor near me,” the team at Thome Waterproofing serves the entire Los Angeles metro area as well as parts of Ventura County. As a local contractor, we are familiar with the conditions in all of Southern California’s diverse microclimates as well as familiar with all of the codes and regulations for proper waterproofing in our area.

Whether you’ve been searching for waterproofing companies in Los Angeles, a waterproofing contractor in Thousand Oaks or another local area, our waterproofing contractors have the experience and knowledge to help with whatever you might need. As a waterproofing contractor, we offer a wide range of services for commercial and residential clients including all types of foundation waterproofing (including blindside waterproofing), crawlspace waterproofing, balcony waterproofing, retaining wall waterproofing and much more. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.