Exterior Waterproofing Services in Tampa Bay
Protect your property from Florida's harsh weather with professional exterior waterproofing. From elastomeric coatings to foundation membrane systems, we keep water out and your investment protected.
Florida's Demanding Climate Requires Expert Waterproofing
Florida's combination of intense rainfall, high humidity, salt air exposure, and hurricane-force winds creates the most demanding waterproofing environment in the continental United States. At Florida Construction Specialists, we've spent over four decades perfecting waterproofing systems that withstand everything our climate can deliver.
Whether you're dealing with water intrusion issues in an existing home, protecting a new construction project, or waterproofing a historic masonry building, our team brings the expertise and premium products necessary to keep water where it belongs—outside.
Understanding Water Intrusion in Florida Buildings
Water finds its way into buildings through multiple pathways: direct penetration through porous materials, capillary action through hairline cracks, wind-driven rain forced through joints and openings, and rising moisture from below grade. Each pathway requires specific countermeasures.
Florida's building stock presents particular challenges. The stucco systems common in our region develop cracks as buildings settle and expand/contract with temperature changes. Older CBS (concrete block and stucco) construction was often built without modern moisture barriers. Coastal properties face accelerated deterioration from salt-laden air and storm surge exposure.
Our Waterproofing Approach
Every waterproofing project begins with thorough diagnosis. We use moisture meters, infrared scanning, and visual inspection to identify current water entry points and vulnerabilities. Understanding how water is getting in determines which waterproofing systems will be most effective.
Surface preparation is the foundation of lasting waterproofing. We repair cracks, address structural issues, clean surfaces of efflorescence and organic growth, and ensure proper profile for coating adhesion. Skipping preparation is the leading cause of waterproofing failures.
Product selection matches the specific substrate and exposure conditions. Elastomeric coatings work well on stucco where flexibility is needed. Penetrating sealers protect masonry while allowing vapor transmission. Below-grade applications require positive-side membrane systems. We use only premium products from manufacturers like Dryvit, StoGuard, and BASF.
Exterior Waterproofing Solutions
Comprehensive waterproofing systems for every building type and exposure condition.
Elastomeric Coatings
Flexible, rubberized coatings that bridge cracks and expand/contract with building movement while creating a waterproof barrier.
Penetrating Sealers
Silane/siloxane products that penetrate substrate pores to create water-repellent barriers while allowing vapor transmission.
Sheet Membrane Systems
Self-adhering or torch-applied membranes for below-grade waterproofing and high-exposure horizontal surfaces.
Stucco Restoration
Complete stucco waterproofing including crack repair, texture matching, and protective coating application.
Foundation Waterproofing
Below-grade protection including membrane installation, drainage boards, and French drain systems.
Hurricane-Grade Systems
Wind-driven rain protection meeting Florida Building Code requirements for high-velocity hurricane zones.
Our Waterproofing Process
Inspection & Moisture Testing
Comprehensive assessment using moisture meters, infrared cameras, and visual inspection to identify water entry points and underlying issues.
Surface Preparation
Repair cracks and damaged areas, remove efflorescence, clean surfaces, and ensure proper substrate profile for optimal coating adhesion.
Product Selection & Specification
Select appropriate waterproofing system based on substrate type, exposure conditions, and desired performance characteristics.
Professional Application
Apply waterproofing products per manufacturer specifications with attention to coverage rates, mil thickness, and cure time requirements.
Quality Verification
Final inspection to ensure complete coverage, proper curing, and effective water resistance. Document work for warranty purposes.
Exterior Waterproofing FAQs
Common questions about waterproofing products, processes, and our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exterior waterproofing involves applying protective barriers, coatings, and drainage systems to prevent water infiltration into building envelopes. In Florida's climate with 50+ inches of annual rainfall, high humidity, and hurricane-driven rain, proper waterproofing prevents mold growth, structural deterioration, and costly interior damage.
Signs include water stains on interior walls, musty odors, peeling paint or wallpaper, efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on masonry, visible cracks in stucco or concrete, bubbling or blistering exterior paint, and mold or mildew growth. If your home is 15+ years old and hasn't been waterproofed, a professional inspection is recommended.
We provide comprehensive waterproofing solutions including elastomeric coatings, penetrating sealers, crystalline waterproofing, cementitious coatings, sheet membrane systems, and specialty coatings for different substrates. Each solution is selected based on your building's construction type, exposure conditions, and existing issues.
Quality elastomeric coatings typically last 10-15 years when properly applied to prepared surfaces. Penetrating sealers may need reapplication every 5-7 years. Sheet membrane systems can last 20+ years. Longevity depends on product quality, surface preparation, application technique, and ongoing maintenance.
Yes, stucco waterproofing is one of our specialties. We repair cracks and damaged areas, apply appropriate primer systems, and finish with elastomeric coatings designed specifically for stucco substrates. This creates a flexible, breathable barrier that expands and contracts with the stucco while preventing water intrusion.
Historic masonry requires specialized breathable products that won't trap moisture inside walls or damage historic surfaces. We use appropriate penetrating silane/siloxane sealers for brick, lime-compatible products for historic mortar, and reversible treatments where required by preservation standards. Our experience with SHPO compliance ensures proper historic treatment.
Yes, we provide below-grade waterproofing for foundations, basement walls, and below-grade parking structures. This includes positive-side membrane systems, drainage board installation, French drain systems, and sump pump installation. Below-grade work requires different products than above-grade exterior walls.
Window and door openings are critical waterproofing details. We install proper flashing systems, flexible sealants, and drainage paths to direct water away from openings. This includes head flashing, jamb flashing, and sill pan flashing integration with the overall building envelope waterproofing.
Our process begins with inspection and moisture testing to identify water entry points. We then prepare surfaces by cleaning, repairing cracks, and ensuring proper adhesion. Products are applied per manufacturer specifications with attention to coverage rates and cure times. Final inspection ensures complete protection.
Residential exterior waterproofing typically ranges from $3-8 per square foot depending on surface condition, preparation requirements, and product selection. A 2,000 square foot home exterior might cost $6,000-$16,000. We provide detailed proposals after on-site inspection so you know exactly what's included.
Protect Your Property from Water Damage
Don't wait for water damage to become an expensive problem. Contact FCS for a professional waterproofing assessment and protect your Tampa Bay property from Florida's demanding climate.
822 Bayview Dr, Ruskin, FL 33579