Project Overview
- Location: Bel Air, Los Angeles
- Project Type: Swimming pool waterproofing
- Structure: Reinforced concrete hillside swimming pool
- Primary Waterproofing System: AVM 700 waterproofing membrane
- Additional Protection Product: ARK nano-technology waterproofing additive by Nano Labs & Co
This project involved waterproofing a newly constructed swimming pool on a steep hillside property in Bel Air, Los Angeles. Hillside construction requires carefully engineered waterproofing systems. Structural stress, soil movement, and constant water pressure can affect concrete structures over time.
This project was completed in Bel Air, one of the hillside neighborhoods in Los Angeles where swimming pool waterproofing systems must withstand structural movement, hydrostatic pressure, and demanding soil conditions.
Luxury homes in hillside areas such as Bel Air, Pacific Palisades, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood Hills often include pools integrated into complex structural environments. Therefore, long-term waterproofing reliability becomes essential.
Swimming Pool Waterproofing for Hillside Homes in Bel Air
Because the pool was built directly into a hillside, the waterproofing system had to protect the concrete shell from cracking, water penetration, and structural stress.
For this reason, Surfacing and Waterproofing designed a multi-layer protection approach. The system combines traditional waterproofing membranes with advanced structural waterproofing technology.
The Challenge
Swimming pools built on hillside properties face unique structural conditions. As a result, waterproofing systems must perform under continuous pressure and movement.
Key challenges included:
• potential structural movement caused by hillside soil pressure
• hairline cracking during curing or seasonal ground movement
• constant internal water pressure inside the pool structure
• vulnerable transitions such as penetrations and construction joints
Because the pool permanently holds water, the waterproofing system must remain flexible and durable while staying compatible with the final pool finish.
Waterproofing Strategy
For this project, our team selected AVM 700 as the primary waterproofing membrane for the concrete pool shell.
In addition, we incorporated ARK, a nano-technology waterproofing product developed by Nano Labs & Co under the IHC Group umbrella.
The ARK system helps improve the protection of concrete structures by reducing water penetration within the structure itself. Instead of relying only on surface-applied protection, ARK works as part of the overall waterproofing system.
The waterproofing system used on this project included three layers of protection:
• AVM 700 waterproofing membrane, acting as the primary waterproof barrier
• ARK nano-technology protection, improving structural resistance to water penetration
• a thin slurry protective coat applied to the concrete substrate
This slurry layer creates an additional protective interface that works together with the main waterproofing membrane.
Furthermore, parts of this installation process involve proprietary techniques developed by our team for complex waterproofing conditions.
Installation Process
Surface Preparation
First, the concrete pool shell was carefully inspected and prepared.
Preparation included:
• cleaning the concrete surface
• repairing voids or honeycombing
• preparing construction joints and structural transitions
Proper surface preparation is critical. It ensures strong adhesion and long-term performance of the waterproofing system.
Waterproofing Application
Once preparation was completed, the waterproofing system was installed across the entire pool shell.
The installation process included:
• installation of the AVM 700 waterproofing membrane
• sealing penetrations and transitions
• reinforcing structural joints and corners
• application of the protective slurry water-repellent interface layer
As a result, a continuous waterproof barrier was created across the entire structure.
Maintaining this continuity is essential for preventing long-term leakage.
Structural Detailing
Particular attention was given to areas where waterproofing systems commonly fail.
For example:
• wall-to-floor transitions
• plumbing penetrations
• structural cold joints
• corners and geometry changes
Careful detailing ensures the waterproofing system remains continuous and effective over time.
Large-Scale Project Capability
Our company operates with large-scale equipment and advanced application capabilities. This allows us to complete demanding waterproofing projects efficiently while maintaining strict quality standards.
As a result, we can handle projects that would normally require extremely large labor crews. At the same time, we maintain consistent installation quality and tight project control.
Results
The completed waterproofing system provides durable protection for the concrete pool structure.
Key outcomes included:
• reliable waterproof protection for the pool shell
• improved resistance to cracking and water migration
• multiple layers of structural protection
• reduced risk of long-term leakage
The combination of AVM 700 waterproofing membrane and ARK nano-technology protection created a multi-layer waterproofing system designed for demanding hillside construction conditions.
Why Hillside Pool Waterproofing Is Critical in Los Angeles
Swimming pools built in hillside neighborhoods such as Bel Air, Pacific Palisades, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood require carefully engineered waterproofing systems.
Without proper waterproofing protection, structures may experience:
• water leakage through structural cracks
• deterioration of concrete components
• soil erosion around the pool structure
• long-term moisture damage
Therefore, professional waterproofing systems are essential to ensure long-term durability.
Waterproofing Services in Los Angeles
Surfacing and Waterproofing provides services throughout Los Angeles, including:
Pacific Palisades
Bel Air
Beverly Hills
West Hollywood
Malibu
Our services include:
• swimming pool waterproofing
• deck waterproofing
• below-grade waterproofing
• foundation waterproofing
• hillside waterproofing systems
Request a Waterproofing Consultation
If you are planning a swimming pool project in Pacific Palisades, Bel Air, or Beverly Hills, our team can help design a waterproofing system tailored to the structural conditions of your property.
Contact Surfacing and Waterproofing (323) 508-4033 to discuss your project and receive professional guidance on advanced waterproofing solutions.