4RENT

Commercial Waterproofing Services

We are certified installers of "positive-side" and "negative-side" waterproofing systems to protect your structural asset from water intrusion, leaks, and damage.

A liquid-applied waterproofing membrane being installed on a foundation wall.

Protecting Your Building's Foundation

Water is the #1 enemy of a commercial structure. Water intrusion into below-grade foundations, plazas, and concrete slabs can lead to structural damage, mold, and costly repairs. Our "Asset Protection" philosophy is to stop this water *before* it becomes a problem.

We are certified in all major types of commercial waterproofing, including:

  • Liquid-Applied Membranes: Seamless, flexible membranes that are perfect for plaza decks and "between-slab" applications.
  • Sheet-Good Membranes: Heavy-duty, self-adhering membranes for below-grade foundation walls and footings.
  • Bentonite Clay Systems: A "self-healing" system for complex foundation shapes.
  • Vehicular Traffic Coatings: A specialized form of waterproofing for parking structures.

Our Process: A Multi-Layer Defense

A waterproofing "failure" is not an option. Our process is meticulous and designed for 100% compliance with architectural specs.

  1. Surface Preparation: All concrete must be clean, dry, and profiled (typically via shot-blasting) to ensure a permanent bond.
  2. Crack & Joint Repair: All static cracks are repaired, and all expansion joints are treated according to specification.
  3. Membrane Application: We apply the membrane (liquid or sheet) to the exact mil thickness required, ensuring no pinholes or weak points.
  4. Flood Testing: For horizontal applications, we conduct a 24-hour flood test to guarantee the system is 100% watertight before the final "overburden" (like tile or soil) is installed.

DIY vs. Pro: The "Damp-Proofing" Trap

A "hobbyist" installer will often use cheap, tar-based "damp-proofing." This is *not* waterproofing. Damp-proofing is a thin, brittle coating that simply *resists* soil moisture. It cannot bridge a crack and will fail under any hydrostatic pressure (real water pushing against the wall).

Brittle, cracked tar-based damp-proofing.

Failed "Damp-Proofing" (The "Hobbyist")

This thin tar coating is brittle, has cracked, and is allowing water to pass through, causing leaks.

A thick, flexible, professional waterproofing membrane.

Waterproofing System (The "Pro")

A thick, flexible, rubberized membrane that is permanently bonded and can bridge cracks, ensuring no leaks.

★★★★★

"Our LA parking structure was a liability. Leaks, spalling, and faded lines. 4RENT's team installed a complete traffic coating system. The structure is now waterproof, safe, and looks brand new. Their project management was flawless."

Jessica W., Property Manager Services: Parking Deck Coatings, Waterproofing in Los Angeles

Commercial Waterproofing FAQs

What is "positive-side" vs. "negative-side" waterproofing?

"Positive-side" is applying the membrane to the *outside* of the foundation (the "wet" side), which is the correct, professional standard. "Negative-side" (applying it to the *inside* of a leaking wall) is a "last resort" repair. We are certified in both.

How is this different from a traffic coating?

A traffic coating is a specialized *type* of waterproofing, but it's also engineered to be UV-stable and handle the abrasion of car tires. Standard commercial waterproofing is often not designed for traffic or direct sunlight (it's usually buried or covered).

Do you repair existing, leaking foundations?

Yes. We are experts in "negative-side" repair. If your below-grade wall is leaking, we can use chemical grouts and specialized coatings on the *inside* to stop the water, without requiring costly excavation.