Patio Waterproofing: Types, Reasons, Guide, Protection, Preventions

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Patio waterproofing is applying materials and techniques to prevent water leaking into the patio and protect it from water damage. You should waterproof the patio due to surface infiltration of the porous materials like concrete, bricks and wood. Cracks and joints of the bricks and concrete, grout lines in the tiles connections, improper slope and drainage system, water running off through the patio floor and capillary action of the ground soil.

Patios are mainly 6 types according to the materials used. Those are concrete patios, stone patios, brick patios, tile patios, wood patios and composite patios. You should waterproof all of these patios by using a proper waterproofing method to prevent water from leaking and seepage because all of these materials are highly porous and tend to seep water from the ground.

When you waterproof a patio, you should prepare the surface at the beginning. You should clean the patio surface to remove dirt, debris, and stains. Then, fix any cracks, holes or damaged areas on the floor. Then you should select a waterproof material according to the type of the patio. You should apply a waterproof layer on the patio according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Make sure the surface is dry before you apply the sealer. You can use a brush, roller, or sprayer to spread the waterproofing layer on the surface. After applying the process, you should protect the layer from the water and the physical damage.

You can protect the patio from the water by using additional water protection methods such as using a waterproof cushion, curtain, funrniture, and patio rugs. A waterproof patio can be damaged due to improper waterproofing installations, wear and tear, cracking and settlements, poor maintenance and harmful environmental factors.

You can prevent damage to the waterproof layer in the pato by installing waterproof materials correctly, inspecting the patio for signs of damage, cleaning the patio regularly, maintaining proper slope and functioning drainage, use furniture pads or coasters to prevent scratches and prevent further damage to waterproofing layer if you notice cracks or settlements in the patio.

What is Patio Waterproofing?

Patio waterproofing is applying materials and techniques to prevent water leaking into the patio and protect from water damage. Patio waterproofing helps to prevent water penetration to the surface, which can cause to structural issues, mold growth and other forms of deterioration in the patios. 

What are the Reasons to Waterproof a Patio?

The patio should be waterproof due to these 6 reasons.

1. Surface infiltration of the porous materials
2. Cracks and joints of the bricks and concrete
3. Grout lines on the patio tiles
4. Improper slope and drainage systems around the patio
5. Water runoff through the patio floor
6. Capillary action of the ground soil

Surface infiltration of the porous materials: The patio should be waterproof due to surface infiltration because water can enter the patio through porous materials such as concrete, stone, wood, and bricks. These materials are naturally porus and can absorb water from rain, sprinkles, and other sources.

Cracks and joints of the bricks and concrete: The patio should be waterproof due to cracks and joints because water can leak into the patio through concrete cracks and mortar joints in the brick patios. These cracks form in the patios when they are settling and temperature fluctuations

Grout lines on the patio tiles: The patio should be waterproof due to grout lines in the tiles because water can seep into the patio through the tile grout lines. It tends to grow mold and mildew and weaken the tile adhesion.

Improper slope and drainage systems around the patio: The patio should be waterproof due to improper slope and drainage system because water can directly access the patio during the rainy season due to poor design. Flat or sloping surfaces and insufficient drainage systems tend to accumulate water on the patio and its around.

Water runoff through the patio floor: The patio should be waterproof due to water runoff on the patio floor because water can directly pour into the patio from the roof runoff and poorly designed landscaping.

Capillary action of the ground soil: The patio should be waterproof due to the capillary action of the ground soil because water can rise to the patio floor due to the capillary action. Higher soil moisture can lead to dampness and eventual deterioration of the patio materials. 

What type of Patios Should You Waterproof?

You should waterproof these 6 types of patios

1. Concrete patio
2. Stone patio
3. Brick patio
4. Tile patio
5. Wood patio
6. Composite patio

Concrete patio waterproofing: You should waterproof concrete patio because concrete is a material and it can absorb water, leading to cracks, spalling, and deterioration over time. You can use waterproofing methods like cementitious waterproofing, liquid membranes, and sheet membranes to stop water from leaking.

Stone patio waterproofing: You should waterproof stone patio because natural stones like limestone, sandstone, and slate can be porous and absorb water, leading to erosion and staining. You can apply water-penetrating sealers and repellant coating to waterproof the stone patios.

Brick patio waterproofing: You should waterproof brick patios because bricks are highly porous material and it can absorb water, causing efflorescence (white mineral deposits) and weakening of the structure. You can use brick sealants, surface coatings and joint sealants to waterproof the bricks.

Tile patio waterproofing: You should waterproof tile patios because grout lines in the tile can absorb water, leading to mold and mildew growth. You can use epoxy grouts and grout selares and waterproof membranes under the tiles.

Wood patio waterproofing: You should waterproof a wood patio because wood is highly susceptible to water damage, including rot, warping, and mold growth. You can use wood sealers, stains and water-repellent coatings.

Composite patio waterproofing: You should waterproof the composite patios because composite materials are more resistant to water than natural wood, they can still benefit from additional waterproofing to prevent mold and mildew. You can use deck sealers and cleaners.

How to Waterproof a Patio?

You can waterproof a patio by following 4 step by step guide

1. Surface preparation: First, you should prepare the patio surface. You should clean the patio surface to remove dirt, debris, and stains. Use a pressure washer for deep cleaning if necessary. Then, fix any cracks, holes, or damaged areas. This might involve patching concrete, replacing broken tiles, or sealing gaps in wood or brick on the patio floor.
2. Select waterproof material: You should select waterproof material according to the type of patio.
   1. Penetrating sealers: These sealers soak into the material, providing deep protection against water infiltration. Suitable for concrete, stone, and brick patios.
   2. Surface coatings: Form a protective layer on top of the patio, preventing water from seeping in. Suitable for various patio materials, including concrete and wood.
   3. Liquid membranes: Applied like paint, these create a seamless waterproof barrier. Suitable for concrete and tile patios.
   4. Sheet membranes: Pre-formed sheets (EPDM, HDPE, PVC, Bituminous membranes) that are applied to the patio surface and sealed at the edges. Suitable for concrete and tile patios.
   5. Grout sealers: Specifically designed to protect grout lines in tile patios from water absorption. (epoxy sealers)
   6. Wood sealers/stains: Protect wooden patios from water damage, rot, and mildew.
3. Apply the waterproofing materials: After selecting the waterproofing material you should apply it on the patio. Before applying the materials, you should ensure the surface is dry and clean. When you apply, you should follow the manufacturer's guidelines always. You can use a brush, roller or sprayer for spread the waterproof material over the surface. You should apply multiple coats if recommended by the manufacturer. 
4. Protect the waterproofing layer: After applying the waterproofing membrane, you should apply additional protective methods. You can install a proper drainage system with a light slope to direct water away and install drains or gutters to manage the water flow. You can use outdoor rugs and mats to protect the surface from physical damage. You can cover the patio to prevent direct rain exposure.

What are the Additional Water Protections in the Patio?

These are the 4 additional water protections on the patio.

1. Use waterproof cushion
2. Use waterproof curtain
3. Use waterproof furniture
4. Use waterproof patio rugs

Use a waterproof cushion

Waterproof cushions are made with materials that repel the water. They provide superior durability by resisting water damage, mold, and mildew, which extends their lifespan.

These cushions are easy to maintain, as spills and dirt can be quickly wiped away, and they often dry rapidly after rain. By preventing moisture absorption, they protect the underlying furniture from rust and rot, preserving the integrity and appearance of the patio setup.

Additionally, waterproof cushions enhance comfort and safety, remaining usable and slip-resistant even in wet conditions. Waterproof cushions are available in various styles and contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the outdoor space, making them a practical and stylish choice for the patio.

Use a waterproof curtain

Waterproof curtains provide excellent weather protection by blocking rain and wind, ensuring the patio remains dry and comfortable.

These curtains also offer UV protection, shielding furniture and occupants from harmful sun rays and preventing fading. Additionally, they enhance privacy and can be easily maintained, contributing to both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

Use waterproof furniture

Waterproof furniture provides durable protection against moisture, preventing damage from rain, spills, and humidity. This durability extends the lifespan of your furniture, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Additionally, waterproof furniture is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to wipe off dirt or stains. It also enhances comfort, as cushions and upholstery remain dry and comfortable even after exposure to rain.

Use waterproof patio rugs

Waterproof patio rugs provide protection against moisture, preventing water damage to your patio floor or decking. This protection extends the lifespan of your outdoor flooring and reduces maintenance needs.

Additionally, waterproof rugs are easy to clean, as spills can be quickly wiped away without leaving stains or odors. They also enhance safety by providing a slip-resistant surface, especially when wet. Furthermore, waterproof patio rugs come in a variety of styles and colors, adding a touch of comfort and aesthetic appeal to your outdoor area.

What are the Ways to Damage a Waterproof Patio?

A waterproof patio can be damaged due to the below 6 ways.

1. Improper waterproofing installations in the patio: A waterproof patio can be damaged due to poor sealing and inadequate slope. 
2. Wear and tear the patio waterproof layer: The patio waterproof layer can be worn down due to constant foot traffic, furniture movements, and during the construction process on the patios.
3. Cracking and settlement the patio waterproof layer: The patio waterproofing layer can be damaged when the patio foundation tends to settle over time and is subject to expansion and contractions due to higher thermal fluctuations.
4. Poor maintenance of the patio waterproofing layer: The patio waterproofing layer can be damaged due to a lack of re-sealing, and debris is built on the surface. 
5. Environmental factors: The patio waterproofing layer can be damaged due to environmental factors such as heavy rainfall and layer is exposure to UV rays. 

How to Prevent Damages in Patio Waterproof Layer?

You can prevent damage in the patio waterproofing layer by following the 6 below steps.

1. Install waterproof materials correctly by experienced professionals to minimize the risk of water damage.
2. Inspect the patio for signs of wear, cracks, or water infiltration, and address any issues promptly.
3. Clean the patio regularly to remove debris, and reapply sealers or coatings as recommended by the manufacturer.
4. Maintain proper slope and functioning drainage systems to prevent water pooling on the patio surface.
5. Use furniture pads or coasters to prevent scratches, and avoid dragging heavy items across the patio.
6. Prevent further damage to the waterproofing layer if you notice cracks or settlements, address them promptly.

What are the 7 Common Signs of Water Damage in the Garage?

These are the 7 common signs of water damage in the garage.

1. Damp or wet spots on garage walls or floors
2. Mold or mildew growth on the garage floor
3. Staining or discoloration on garage walls
4. Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper on the garage walls
5. Musty or unpleasant odors in the garage
6. Rust or corrosion on metals in the garage
7. Sagging or soft areas in the ceiling or walls

In order to prevent these damages, you should waterproof the garage using proper waterproofing methods.