Roof leak detection to ensure property conservation

 

In the late 1980’s, access to hi-tech techniques for accurately pinpointing breaches in the roof waterproofing system revolutionised roof leak detection. This replaced more time-consuming and less environmentally-friendly processes by utilising water’s electrical conductivity and the insulating properties present in the majority of waterproofing membranes. Thornton Consulting was the first UK consultancy to offer this innovative service for clients throughout the UK and Ireland and has continued to be at the forefront of electronic leak detection.

This cost-effective and non-destructive technique provides significant assistance to roofing contractors, ensuring the integrity of the newly installed roofing membrane before hand-over. This not only guarantees there are no faults in the standard of workmanship, but also that the waterproofing material meets the industry specifications and that no damage has been caused by other workers with access to the roof area. Diligent roof leak detection avoids a costly call-back and in extreme circumstances, re-installation of the roofing felt or mastic asphalt. Any identified issues can be resolved, avoiding a potential call-back and enabling punctual payment of the completed project by the property owner.   

Thornton Consulting’s experienced team of field testers also provide a valuable service for locating water ingress on older roofs, when owners or facility managers become aware of interior leaks in the building. A timely response and early location of the breach will enable accurate repairs, preventing the inconvenience and expense of lengthy disruption or contamination of internal elements and damage to the building fabric.

Over the last 30 years, local authorities, roofing contractors and property owners of large industrial and commercial premises have benefited from Thornton Consulting’s comprehensive and highly professional leak detection service. Clients include the prestigious Broadgate and Canary Wharf developments and leading-edge testing techniques are constantly being developed to meet new challenges in the safeguarding of properties from water damage.  

 

Call us today on 01342 410508 for all your roof leak detection needs.  If preferred  use the contact form to get in touch.

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Roof robustness testing with electronic leak detection

Expansive flat roof areas on buildings are notoriously the source of water ingress and with restricted visibility from ground level, leaks can remain undiscovered until damage becomes evident inside the property. There are various issues responsible for roof breaches, including damaged materials, sub-standard installation and degraded waterproofing. Ensuring the durability and value of a property requires proactive maintenance to avoid costly repairs and internal deterioration.   

One element of this conscientious approach is the use of electronic leak detection which provides a pivotal role in the precise identification and resolution of any water-related issues before they potentially become more problematic. These highly accurate systems employ advanced technology to efficiently and non-invasively pinpoint any leaks in the waterproofing cover, avoiding property owners the disruption and expense resulting from substantial water damage.

Thornton Consulting is an independent test house, providing a professional and meticulous building leak investigation service for clients throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The company was a pioneer of electronic leak detection in the 1980’s and this technique is now widely endorsed and applied to determine the stability of the existing waterproofing system and the source of any membrane breaches. Thornton Consulting employs a dedicated and highly skilled team of Field Testers and Consultants applying either the dry or the wet leak detection method, determined by the low-pitched or flat roof construction and the nature of the membrane material. 

Where electronic testing deemed to be inappropriate, such as EPDM waterproofing membranes, other effective leak location methods can be utilised.

The integrity of newly installed waterproofing systems can be accurately verified with electronic leak detection, providing reassurance to main contractors and roofing operatives that the roof is defect-free. Should any breaches be located, these can be rectified before the final hand over of the roofing project. This method of roof integrity testing is also commonly applied when leaks are present in existing buildings, where establishing the stability of the waterproofing membrane prior to any escalation of damage, ensures the overall repair costs are reduced.

As the saying goes, forewarned is forearmed, giving property owners and facility managers a tactical advantage to locate and address any roof damage. Electronic leak detection can also be valuable for general roof maintenance. 

Thornton Consulting can provide a regular testing and inspection service either annually or bi-annually, enabling any necessary repairs to be carried out before more costly damage occurs. This scheduled service is invaluable for large commercial properties such as retail centres, hotels, offices, apartment blocks and municipal car parks. A timely intervention not only protects the property owner’s investment, it also enables businesses to avoid disruptions to operations and prevents the deterioration of valuable assets while safeguarding the well-being and safety of the building’s occupants.

Thornton Consulting’s core values are to provide a professional, prompt and cost-effective service which is always customer-focused, ensuring your investment is safe and secure in the long-term. Call us today on 01342 410508 or use the Contact Page to get in touch.

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The asset of differential pressure testing for roof membrane integrity

Differential pressure testing is a critical procedure in evaluating the integrity of roof membranes. It is used when traditional electronic leak detection of waterproofing membranes is not possible, often as a result of a particular roof construction. This could be due to the membrane being conductive, EPDM for example, or where the substrate is non-conductive, such as timber.

The differential pressure testing process involves applying negative pressure through a Perspex chamber placed on the surface of the waterproofing and monitoring the laps within the chamber for integrity. A surfactant applied to the laps will indicate where a water path is present which can then be marked on the roof surface and repaired by the contractor.

Here are some reasons why differential pressure testing is a valuable asset for waterproofing roof membranes:

1.   Accurate Detection of Leaks: Roof leaks can be challenging to identify because water can penetrate the membrane in one area and travel a considerable distance before showing up inside the building. Differential pressure testing can accurately detect even the smallest of leaks by creating negative air pressure on the outside of the waterproofing membrane and positve air pressure beneath. Any holes, tears, or punctures in the membrane will cause the air to escape, which can then be observed through a perspex chamber.

2.  Cost-Effective: Repairing a leaking roof can be expensive, especially if the problem is not identified early enough. Differential pressure testing can help identify potential problems before they become major issues. This process can save building owners, contractors and roofers considerable expense in repair costs by identifying leaks early and allowing for prompt repair.

3.  Manufacturer Warranties: Many manufaturers require roof membranes to be tested for intergrity by an independent party . Differential pressure testing is an excellent way to meet these requirements and ensure that the roof system is performing as intended.

4.  Verification of Installation Quality: Roof membranes are often installed by a variety of contractors, and their workmanship can vary greatly. Differential pressure testing can help verify that the installation was done correctly, and the roof system is functioning as intended.

5.  Peace of Mind: Roof leaks can be stressful and disruptive to building occupants. Differential pressure testing provides peace of mind by ensuring that the roof system is working correctly and there are no hidden leaks that could cause problems in the future.

Thornton Consulting has a team of experienced field testers and consultants providing an efficient and comprehensive building leak detection and consultancy service for clients throughout the UK and Ireland.  Call us today on 01342 410508 or use the Contact form to get in touch.

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Why an annual roof inspection is invaluable

 

An annual roof inspection is a preventative measure that can provide a range of advantages to the property sector. Thornton Consulting provide a professional and meticulous planned roof inspection and maintenance service in counties throughout the UK and Ireland. Here are some of the key benefits:

1.  Early detection of problems: Inspecting the roof area annually or biannually can help to identify any issues with your roof before they become major problems. This could include identifying breaches in the roofing membrane, cracks or other types of damage. Establishing any weak spots promptly can save property owners money in the long run by preventing the need for costly repairs in the future or even a full roof replacement.

2.  Extending the life of your roof: Regular inspections and maintenance enables small issues to be identified and addressed, preventing more serious consequences developing that could potentially lead to structural damage and deterioration of the building’s contents.

3.  Maintaining your warranty: Many roofing warranties require regular roof maintenance and inspections in order to remain valid. By scheduling an annual inspection, you can help to ensure that your roof remains sound and in compliance with your warranty terms.

4.  Improved energy efficiency: A damaged or poorly maintained roof can contribute to energy loss, with an increase in your energy bills. Annual inspections and maintenance can help to ensure that the roof integrity is secure and watertight and isn't contributing to an energy deficiency.

5.  Peace of mind: Knowing that the roof is in good condition provides reassurance for property owners. Scheduling a roof inspection annually with Thornton Consulting can help to identify any areas of concern so that these can be addressed before they develop into major problems. This can help you to feel confident that your property is protected from the elements and is safe and secure from water ingress.

Overall, an annual roof inspection and maintenance carried out by Thornton Consulting’s experienced team of Field Testers and Consultants, is a smart investment. By identifying and addressing minor issues early on, this can extend the life of your roof, maintain your warranty, and save money on repairs and energy bills.   Call us today on 01342 410508 to find out more, or, if preferred use the Contact Us Form

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Protecting property with a roof condition survey

 

Thornton Consulting has more than 30 years of roof consultancy experience, with a team of specialist consultants providing a comprehensive service with the use of advanced leak-detection technology for the property sector in the UK and Ireland.  A professional roof condition survey is a detailed assessment of a building's roof integrity, conducted by an experienced roofing consultant. It is an essential step in maintaining the integrity of any property, as the roof is one of the most critical components of a building's structure. Here are some of the benefits of obtaining a professional roof condition report:

1.   Identifying potential problems before they become serious:  A report on the roof integrity will reveal any issues that may exist in the waterproofing layer, such as leaks, structural damage, or other potential problems. By identifying these issues early, it is possible to prevent them from developing into more significant problems that can be costly and time-consuming to repair.

2.   Extending the lifespan of the roof: A well-maintained roof can last for many years. A roof integrity report provides an accurate assessment of the roof's stability, enabling property owners, facilities management and building re-furbishers to take appropriate steps to maintain the roof and extend its lifespan.

3.   Providing a baseline for future maintenance: A proficient roof condition report carried out by an experienced consultant will establish a baseline for future maintenance and budget allocation. It will outline the condition of the roof at the time of the assessment, providing a reference point for future inspections and repairs.

4.   Enhancing safety: A damaged roof can be a safety hazard, particularly if it is leaking or structurally compromised. Thornton Consulting will advise on any safety concerns enabling steps to be taken to address and resolve these issues.

5.   Reducing energy costs: A well-maintained roof can help reduce energy costs by preventing heat loss during the winter months and heat gain during the summer months. A diligent and precise assessment can identify any areas where insulation or ventilation may be inadequate, enabling the necessary measures to be put in place to improve energy efficiency.

The Thornton Consulting specialist consultants are commissioned to undertake surveys on an eclectic range of buildings, including large commercial facilities, office and apartment blocks and car parks. This ensures peace of mind, knowing that the building is safe, secure, and well-maintained.  Call us today on 01342 410508.

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The value of electronic leak detection services

 

 

An electronic leak detection service is an invaluable tool for the construction industry, facilities management and the broader property sector, as it provides a non-invasive and highly accurate method of detecting leaks in roofing and waterproofing systems. By utilising advanced electronic equipment, Thornton Consulting’s experienced leak detection operatives are able to pinpoint the exact location of a leak even in hard-to-reach areas, without causing any damage to the underlying structure.

One of the primary benefits of testing waterproofing membranes electronically is the ability to save time and money on repairs. Traditional leak detection methods often require invasive techniques, such as opening up large sections of roofing or waterproofing materials, or other areas of the structure in order to locate the source of the leak. This can result in extensive repair costs and significant downtime for businesses and property owners. Electronic leak detection on the other hand, allows for quick and accurate location of breaches in the roof waterproofing, often with minimal disruption to daily operations. Established in 1986, Thornton Consulting was a pioneer in this technique for clients throughout the UK and Ireland.

Another benefit is its high level of accuracy. By using specialised equipment, leak detection consultants are able to identify breaches in the roof waterproofing membrane with a high degree of precision. This means that repairs can be made quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of further damage to the structure. This high-tech method also offers a more environmentally-friendly approach to leak detection as it avoids the waste of high volumes of water used in more traditional methods, such as flood testing. 

Electronic leak detection services can provide property owners, businesses, main contractors, Roofers and Architects with peace of mind. By identifying leaks before they become major issues, costly repairs and downtime can be avoided, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.

All Thornton Consulting operatives provide a highly professional service in line with the strong company ethics and core values. Their broad and prestigious client base is testament to an outstanding efficiency and competence in the field of leak detection.

Call us today on +44 (0) 1342 410508 for more information.

 

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Why roof leak detection is beneficial

Roof leak detection is a critical aspect of building maintenance that provides numerous benefits for property owners, construction companies, facilities managers and Architects, plus many others in the construction sector. A roof leak is a significant issue that can cause costly damage to the structure and contents of a building. If not detected and repaired quickly, a small leak can escalate into a major problem that requires expensive repairs and renovations.

Thornton Consulting provide a precise and cost-effective roof leak detection service for clients throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland, with a highly experienced team of professional operatives and the appliance of advanced technology.

One of the primary benefits of early detection of a breach in the roof membrane is the ability to prevent interior water damage. If left unresolved this can cause substantial damage to the structure of a building and the contents within it, including furniture, vital equipment and electrical systems. By detecting a leak early, the need for costly repairs can be avoided, preventing the development of mould and other harmful microorganisms which can otherwise migrate rapidly.

Another benefit of roof leak detection is that it can help to extend the life of a roof. The roof installation is a considerable investment and by identifying the location of the water ingress and rectifying the problem this can avoid the expense and disruption of having to replace the roof prematurely.

A sound and secure roof also helps to improve energy efficiency. A leaky roof can cause air to escape or cause damage to insulation, leading to an increase in heating and cooling costs. By detecting and repairing leaks, energy consumption can be reduced, with a cost-saving on energy bills and a reduction in the carbon footprint. Roof leaks can also cause electrical systems to short-circuit, creating hazardous conditions for the building’s occupants. With prompt intervention these potential dangers can be avoided, maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

In addition, early isolation and repair can also enhance the overall appeal of a building. Leaks can cause unsightly water damage, staining, and discolouration on the walls and ceilings, which can detract from the aesthetic appearance of the property.

Established in 1986, Thornton Consulting has developed a wide range of testing procedures for a proactive approach in accurately locating leaks in the roof structure which may not easily visible to the naked eye. This is an invaluable service which also avoids the need for time-consuming and costly call-backs after the construction sign-off and provides reassurance that the roof is watertight. 

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The efficiency of electronic leak detection of waterproofing membranes

 

 

Electronic leak detection is an efficient and accurate method for locating an existing breach in most flat roof waterproofing system. Since the 1980’s Thornton Consulting has been an innovator in this field using both dry and wet electronic leak testing systems as an alternative option to traditional flood testing. Construction companies and architects have increasingly authorised electronic testing to locate and resolve potential breach locations within the roof’s waterproofing material, prior to the final project sign-off. This prevents costly call-backs and delays in the work schedule and ensures the waterproofing is watertight at handover of the roof.

Electronic leak detection is precise and efficient way to integrity test newly installed waterproofing membranes, ensuring even the smallest breaches which may not be visibly apparent can be pinpointed and rectified. This leak detection procedure is non-destructive and the avoidance of wasting high volumes of water also has the advantage of being more beneficial for the environment.

Whilst flood testing is useful in some situations, electronic leak detection is less time consuming and far more accurate at locating breaches when the waterproofing membrane is exposed. In the event that the roof membrane is not compatible with an electronic device, Thornton Consulting can implement alternative testing techniques.

Electronic leak detection is also a commonly used techinique when undertaking building leak investigations. This is an additional service Thornton Consulting provide where the source of water ingress into a building needs to be established. This is particularly useful to owners, managers or operators of buildings such as Hotels, retail centres, industrial units, apartment blocks and schools commonly and office buildings to name but a few. During this diligent survey the water ingress pathways can be identified, enabling any weakness in the waterproofing membrane to be resolved. Visible signs of a leak in the interior of a property may not be immediately apparent underneath the point where the waterproofing material has been breached, or where water is penetrating the strucrure, therefore, the experience of our field technicians and consultants is invaluable in accurately determining the source of a leak.

Thornton Consulting will provide clients with a detailed report once testing has been completed. Specific information relevant to the leak source will be reported in detail, with professional advice regarding remedial actions which are recommended to resolve the leak. Thornton Consulting provide an exemplary electronic leak detection service for Roofing and Main Contractors, Material Manufacturers, Facilities Management and Architects. Over the last 30 years our experienced technicians have been appointed to carry out surveys on many prestigious buildings throughout the UK.

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The solution for detecting pinhole leaks in waterproofing membranes

 

Underestimating the potential consequences of unresolved pinhole leaks in waterproofing membranes can be costly, resulting in significant damage to property if not addressed. Pinholes in a single ply membrane can develop over time to become significant breaches resulting in internal damage or leaks.

Therefore, it essential to identify these at the earliest opportunity, whether it be as part of an integrity test to newly installed waterproofing or part of an ongoing maintenance programme for an existing installation.

 

Attempts to establish the integrity of waterproofing membranes precisely with the naked eye can be time consuming and often proves to be fruitless when the puncture or pinhole is miniscule.  Thornton Consulting provides an accurate and highly professional electronic leakdetection service to locate such pinholes for clients in the building and property sector throughout the UK.

 

Thornton Consulting were pioneers of Electronic Leak Detection and integrity testing of waterproofing membranes in the 1980’s, of which the pinhole test, also known as the “holiday” test forms a part. Since this time, we have built long-term working relationships with Main Contractors, Roofing Constructors and Material Manufacturers. Any existing issues can be identified and resolved avoiding further damage, with a pre-sign off inspection on new installations giving reassurance that the roof membrane is intact. 

 

Pinhole (Holiday) leak detection is carried out with a phosphor bronze brush through which an electrical charge is passed. The brush is then swept across a dry roof surface, with an alarm indicating to the operator the exact location of the breach. Breaches can then be easily repaired by the roofer and retested to ensure the roof is watertight at completion of the test.

 

Thornton Consulting is a customer-focused company with strong core values and is committed to providing a cost-effective and professional leak-detection service compliant to industry standards. Call us today on 01342 410508

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