Do You Really Need to Waterproof Your Deck Against Rain in Los Angeles?

No matter what type of deck you have, wood or concrete, it is important to have it waterproofed as soon as you have it installed. By doing this, you will avoid future headaches and costly repairs. Even though it may not rain as much in Los Angeles, the fact of the matter is that there are still external elements that are going to affect your decking. Taking the extra step to waterproof your outdoor space can save you time and money in the long run.

Waterproofing: It’s Not Just for Wooden Decks

Many people mistakenly believe that their concrete deck is immune to the weather. Just because it is not made of wood does not mean that it cannot still get damaged. While concrete may be more sustainable and less susceptible to water damage, it is still very much at risk.

How Does the Damage Occur?

If you have any cracks in your concrete deck, the water can seep down into the cracks and result in damage. When temperatures dip down low during the fall and winter, the moisture trapped down in the cracks can begin to freeze, causing the cracks to expand. The more cracks that begin to develop and the more water that gets settled into your deck, the greater the amount of structural damage that can occur.

Think of it this way. If the water has nowhere else to go, it will continue to settle below the deck and start softening the ground that the deck is built on. Eventually, when people walk on the deck, the pressure that is created on the softer spots of soil can cause the deck to crack. Once these cracks have built up, the cost to fix all of them can become high. In some cases, you may need a new deck entirely.

Take preventative measures now and waterproof your deck. At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, we offer free estimates so that we can accurately give you an idea of the work that is needed and help to create a plan that is right for you.

Call (888) 508-2966 today to speak with our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists . We have 30+ years of experience in the business.

Why Is It Important to Waterproof Your Outdoor Planters?

With spring right around the corner, you may be looking to add a little life to your patio, deck, or other outdoor area. This may come in the form of adding in new plants, requiring the addition of planters. It is important to remember that planters should be waterproofed.

Whether you are looking to install a new planter or you already have outdoor planters, waterproofing them is essential to making sure they last.

Why Is Waterproofing Key to Durability?

First of all, your planters, just like any other outdoor item, need protection against the elements. Having a planter outside means that it has to brave the wind, rain, sprinklers, and everyday plant watering. Waterproofing your planter can provide you with a multitude of benefits.

If you waterproof your planters, it can prevent the following from happening:

  • Planters holding in excess water
  • Water leaking and causing harm to the plants
  • Lack of draining lines that leads to plant damage
  • Overall wear and tear running the look of the planter

Also if you already have a planter that is cracking from water damage, we can glue the planter back together with epoxy and help to prevent any future leaking. When you speak with a professional at Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, we can discuss the options available for your existing planter and determine if we can fix the issues you are experiencing.

Working With Waterproofing Specialists

With over 30 years of experience, our licensed and highly-trained waterproof specialists have handled a wide array of waterproofing jobs throughout Southern California. Whether you need help with your planter, deck, stairs, or any other outdoor surface, give our Los Angeles waterproof specialist a call. Get your outdoor space ready for Spring and Summer before the seasons are already upon us.

We offer free estimates – call (888) 508-2966 today!

Remodeling Your Basement? Here’s Why You Should Waterproof It First

Remodeling any part of your home can seem expensive, but many home improvement projects actually increase the value of your property in the long run. For homeowners, basement remodeling projects are a great place to start.

For some people, “basement” evokes images of creaky staircases, cobwebs, and dingy floors. In fact, a refurbished basement is not only beautiful but functional.

Why You Should Waterproof Your Basement

  • Decreases health concerns
  • Prevents damage from floods
  • Lowers the cost of repairs

Mold, Waterproofing, and Health Concerns

Basements are prone to mold and mildew, making them especially risky for persons with asthma and other health conditions, including skin allergies, irritation of the eyes, migraines, and fever. On the other hand, waterproofing your basement will decrease the possibility of mold and dry rot, making it a safer place for everyone.

Repairs Cost Less with Waterproofing

In the long run, moisture will damage your basement. This means higher repair costs – even if the damage is gradual and doesn’t involve a flood or other catastrophe. This is especially true if your basement is finished because water exposure will quickly ruin carpet and drywall. Without waterproofing, you’ll need to make these repairs over and over.

Additionally, sealing any cracks in your basement with waterproofing can make your air and ventilation system more efficient, saving even more money over time.

Your Home Will Be Stronger

Waterproofing actually increases the structural integrity of your house. By waterproofing, you can fend off serious structural damage commonly caused by standing water, moisture, dry rot, and mold. In the end, waterproofing is an investment that will protect your home – and your wallet – from undue stress.

Learn more about your options by contacting the Los Angeles waterproofing specialists at Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing today!

How to Give Your Deck a Facelift Without Remodeling

Let’s face it: Your deck doesn’t look like it did when it was new. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to remodel. In fact, there are countless ways you can improve the curbside appeal of your deck without breaking the bank. Here’s how:

Consider a Fresh Coat of Paint

Painting isn’t pricey, especially when you compare it to the cost of a full-scale remodel. When it comes to picking the right color, focus on something that complements the exterior of your home. If you’re happy with the current color of your deck, consider matching the color to give an updated look to avoid clashing with your homes outer-décor.

Update Your Patio Furniture

Just like the furniture inside your house, your patio furniture can add – or detract – from the aesthetic appeal of your home. If you feel like your deck needs to be improved, but your patio furniture isn’t what it used to be, consider buying new furniture before you invest in a more costly project. In addition to its unsightliness, older patio furniture can be dangerous if it’s rotted or rusted. Always replace furniture if you think it’s too old to continue using.

Just Add Water

It doesn’t matter how big or small your deck is; you can find a decorative fountain to fit your space. Many fountains are pleasant to the eye and the ear, and come in a variety of styles – from ornate and traditional to modern and sleek.

Try Adding Some Accent Pieces

Exterior design is more than patio color and outdoor furniture. Check out a nearby home improvement store to find bold and colorful accents – they’ll make your deck look cohesive, cared for, and welcoming. If you use your deck in the evening, consider getting umbrella lights or other fixtures for a cozy ambiance.

Some bold, yet inexpensive decorating pieces include:

  • Large, decorative potted plants
  • A colorful tablecloth
  • New seat cushions
  • Outdoor decorative pillows
  • Figurines and sculptures

How to Keep Your Deck Looking Ageless

Waterproofing your deck can keep it looking new for many years. If you’ve recently installed a deck or are considering a deck remodeling project, Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing can help you defy unsightly wear and tear from weather and exposure. We’ll even give you a free estimate – so contact our Los Angeles deck waterproofing team today!

Waterproofing Your Wooden Deck: 3 Popular Sealant Options

No wooden deck is complete without a good waterproofing sealant to protect it from the worst Mother Nature has to offer. What sealant goes onto a deck, however, can be a trickier proposition than just grabbing a can or bottle of the stuff and getting to work. The materials of a deck, its age, and the typical weather conditions of a region can make one sealant ineffective and another ideal, and vice versa.

Here’s three popular sealants that you might want to consider:

  • Polyurethane sealants: Try not to get too caught up on the chemical-sounding name of this sealant. Typically made of acrylic or a synthetic resin, polyurethane sealants are known for their ability for customization. You can get a finish that ranges from a high gloss to a soft sheen to an almost-matte finish. Light woods are generally best suited for an application of polyurethane sealants, as other finishes could potentially change the color enough that it looks odd, especially as the years go on.
  • Varnishes: When resin, oil, and specialized solvents are combined, the end result is a varnish suited for sealing wood decks and structures. Varnishes are well-known for drying into a hardened surface that can be likened to a shell, providing tough protection to decks that resists scarring and yellowing. For outdoor decks, a marine varnish will be your first choice, as it is particularly resistant against damage caused by the sun and can swallow UV rays.
  • Lacquer: A traditional lacquer is made of dissolved tree resin, condensed down into an applicable material. Although lacquer can technically work on outdoor surfaces, it is really intended for indoor use and on darker woods due to its yellow color that can make lighter woods look unappealing. If you have a wooden chair or table that sometimes moves from inside to out, a lacquer might be the choice for that job. Keep in mind that lacquer smells quite strongly and the fumes could be dangerous if you breathe them in too heavily; work where there is plenty of fresh air or ventilation when applying lacquer sealants.

No matter what sealant you choose for your wooden deck, you might have to go quickly to ensure it looks uniform and correct by the time it dries. For some decks that are large or have unusual, nonrectangular layouts, moving fast and applying a sealant correctly are outright difficult for one person. If you need assistance and want to know the completed project is backed by an unbeatable warranty, you should contact Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing. Our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists have been in the industry and making a great impression everywhere we go for more than 30 years.

FAQ About Deck Sealing & Waterproofing

Many homes, businesses, and properties in Los Angeles have decks that see a lot of foot traffic but do not get a lot of attention. It is not that most people do not care about the conditions of their decks – many people would claim that a good deck can bring the entire house together. Instead, most people are just not aware of what can be done to improve, repair, and care for a deck.

Our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists at Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing are truly passionate about making decks and stairs look their best, no matter the weather or wear. We have compiled a useful frequently asked questions section below to hopefully address your most pressing concerns about deck waterproofing, sealing, and staining. Be sure to give it a brief review, or feel free to contact us directly to learn about our services, which are available during the workweek, afterhours, and even on the weekends.

Deck Waterproofing & Sealing FAQ

  1. How often should I service or repair my deck?
    You can expect a great weatherproofing job to last at least two years under normal conditions. If there is plenty of shade throughout the day on the deck and you don’t get much rain – in Los Angeles, rain is pretty scarce – it could last up to five years. On the opposite end, heavily trafficked decks in direct sunlight may need waterproofing once a year.
  2. Should I waterproof a brand new deck?
    Possibly. Some new woods need a couple months after installation before they are ready for waterproofing, due to the material’s pores, climate conditions, and other factors. Others may need immediate sealing to stop normal wear and tear from turning into noticeable dents and dings. Contact a professional waterproofing specialist, tell them what sort of wood you have in your new deck, and they can get you a proper treatment schedule.
  3. Should I use a darker stain or finish?
    Only use dark stains if you are confident a dark, forest-y look will be right for your deck. Once you stain, seal, or finish wood darkly, it can be difficult to go back to lighter or transparent stains in the future. After all, you are staining it.
  4. My railings don’t seem to need to be refinished – why is that?
    Sunlight beats down on the horizontal surfaces of decks, where heat can build up and get trapped. The same can be said for harsh weather elements, like rain or ice on cold mornings. Vertical railings don’t take the brunt of the elements and therefore generally look better and last longer than the decks they accompany.
  5. Does occasionally rinsing down my deck actually help?
    Absolutely, especially for wooden decks with cracks between the planks. A quick wash down once a week or so can push away bits of dirt, dust, and whatever else is out there before it accumulates into a problem. If your deck has been recently stained, sealed, or weatherproofed, ask a specialist how soon you can wash it down again.

Deck Stains vs. Waterproofing: Which Is Right for Me?

If you are looking to complete a restoration of your home or property, you have probably considered giving your deck some attention. If this is the case, the important question still remains – should you stain it or seal it with a waterproof coating? While both will protect your deck and save you a considerable amount of cash from having to replace the whole thing, they each have their own benefits.

Stains do an excellent job of highlighting the natural beauty of the wood grain in your deck. Choosing the right stain can be a stunning and simple design addition to your space. The durability of a stain will largely depend on the amount of wear and tear your deck receives, as well as its exposure to sunlight, the color of the stain, the quality of the stain, and the quality of the prep work that went into staining the deck previously. Assuming your deck receives a moderate amount of traction and sunlight, you may expect to re-stain your deck once every two or three years.

On the other hand, waterproof sealants provide a protective coating to your deck that can help shield it from the water and weather damage and protect them from rot, increasing the longevity of your deck and saving you from costly replacements. If applied correctly and replaced on a regular basis, water-based or oil-based sealers will cause water to bead up rather than absorb into the wood, preventing the planks in your deck from warping or cracking over time. Sealers should last at least a year, with some lasting up to three years.

Which Should I Choose?

In the end, it basically comes down to a matter of preference. To get the best of both worlds, it may be wise to apply both a stain and a sealant to your deck, or choose a combination stain/sealer product which can help you achieve both the aesthetic and protection you desire. Regardless of which you choose, it is important you trust the job to a knowledgeable professional to avoid damage to your deck.

At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, our knowledgeable Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists have more than 30 years of industry experience and can help you choose an option that best fits your needs. Backed by a customer satisfaction guarantee on all of our work, you can choose us with confidence to provide the quality workmanship you need at a competitive price.

To find out more about how we can assist you, call us today at (888)-508-2966  .

Do I Really Need to Waterproof My Deck in Los Angeles?

It’s no secret that the greater Los Angeles area is pretty dry climate. The weather throughout much of Southern California is bone dry during most of the year, with only mild showers occurring on occasion. As such, many people believe that waterproofing the deck on their Los Angeles property is a waste of money. Since it never rains, why would waterproofing ever be necessary?

It is important to remember that waterproofing can save your deck from far more than just rain. Waterproof sealants protect your deck from all kinds of environmental damage, including sunlight, condensation, mold, and rot – all of which can wreak havoc on the condition of your deck. Without any protection, uncoated decks can begin to split warp over time, eventually leading to major structural damage that can require expensive repairs or even a full deck replacement. This can also lead to safety concerns, as uncoated decks can present a skid-hazard when hurriedly traveled across and raised boards can easily lead to trips and falls.

Many people also overlook the aesthetic appeal of deck waterproofing. While many people’s first thought when they hear the term “deck sealer” is of a simple clear coating, deck sealants are sold in a wide variety of colors and can help accentuate the natural beauty of your deck’s wood grain, enhancing the appeal of your property.

Protect Your Investment – Call (888)-508-2966

At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists have more than 30 years of industry experience and can provide the quality craftsmanship you need to restore your deck to its optimal condition. Backed by a customer satisfaction guarantee and a dedication to leave each jobsite cleaner than we found it, you can choose us with confidence knowing that the job will be done correctly and to your liking the first time around – no exceptions.

Get in touch with us online today to schedule a free estimate.

The Benefits of Slip-Resistant Deck Treatments

Outdoor decks – particularly those around pools – can develop puddles of water and become a dangerous slip hazard. Since leisure decks , pool decks , and walking decks are constantly exposed to the elements and are frequently high-traffic areas, special attention must be given to ensure their safety and minimize the potential for unwanted falls, trips, and skids.

One of the most common and cost-effective ways that homeowners and business owners can improve the grip of these surfaces is through a slip-resistant deck coating. From concrete epoxy coatings to textured sealants, these coatings come in different varieties and can greatly improve the traction of your deck’s surface. Depending on your needs and aesthetic preferences, nonslip coatings can be mild, coarse, colored, or clear, allowing you to improve both the safety of your deck and its visual appeal.

Additionally, texture sealing your deck can help provide protection against possible mold growth or chlorine damage. When decks are first built, particularly wood decks, they often come uncoated and are left up to the property owner to have sealed. Having your deck properly coated with a slip-resistant sealant can help it to withstand the elements and increase its life.

Whether your property features a wood, concrete, or stone deck, a slip-resistant deck treatment can do wonders to minimize your potential liability and refresh your space. At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, our knowledgeable and friendly Los Angeles flooring specialists can help you choose and install a coating that best fits your property’s needs. With more than 30 years of industry experience and a satisfaction guarantee on all of our work, you can choose us with confidence to provide the quality workmanship and dependable service you need.

Call (888) 508-2966 or request a free estimate online today to get started.

Should I Waterproof My Deck Myself or Hire Professionals?

Your deck is one of the most beautiful and valuable assets to your home or business. As such, it must be maintained on a regular basis to preserve its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. One of the most important types of required maintenance for your deck is to have it waterproofed and periodically resealed to protect it against the elements. This begs the question: should you attempt to reseal your deck on your own, or should you hire a professional? While applying a sealant to your deck may seem simple on the surface, waterproofing requires a certain level of knowledge and precision to avoid inadvertently inflicting lasting damage to your investment.

Reasons to hire a professional for your waterproofing project include:

  • Choosing the right sealant: There are a myriad of different waterproofing products on the market, including epoxy resins, oils, and varnishes. Do you know which one is best for your deck? Which will last the longest? Which provides the best value for the money? A professional can help you choose a sealant that is best for your type of deck.
  • Saving you time: The process of waterproofing can take up to a week from start to finish, including stripping the deck’s old seal, inspecting boards and fasteners, sanding, pressure washing, and applying multiple coats of sealant. A professional can save you this hassle and allow you to spend your time doing more worthwhile activities.
  • Avoiding damage to your deck: While DIY waterproofing can save you on labor costs, the tradeoff is that you run the risk of applying the sealer improperly. Miscalculating how much you need of a stain or sealer can require you to go running back to the store for more project while your project proceeds to dry or cure unevenly, resulting in permanent flaws in your deck. Likewise, improperly using a power sander can leave burn marks on your deck or uneven spots from sanding too much. By hiring a professional, you can ensure the job is done correctly and to your satisfaction the first time around.

Southern California Waterproofing Specialists

At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing , our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists can help you seal your deck against the elements and ensure it looks its best for years to come. With 30+ years of industry experience, our family-run business can provide the cost-effective, professional, and durable results you need with the dependable service you deserve.

Tell us about your waterproofing project today by calling (888) 508-2966.

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