What is Flood Testing?

Although flood testing isn’t a common leak detection practice followed today, it continues to remain effective when electronic testing is impractical or in areas that are continually submerged in water (swimming pools, water fountains, etc.) Sometimes, it is necessary to ensure that a structure can withstand substantial water leakage.

What is flood testing?

The area to be tested is completely filled with water without allowing a chance to escape either through the drain or other source. The water is filled to a minimum depth of 1” and a maximum depth of 4” and poured at a pressure that does not damage the waterproofing membrane. The space below the test area is then checked to look for signs of water leakage within regular intervals. If leakage occurs, water is immediately drained and recommendations are made. The test area should be re-tested after repairs are undertaken to ensure that waterproofing is complete. Tests are conducted within a 24-72 hour time range with regular inspection intervals. Also, tests are not conducted when rain is expected within the test period.

Precautions before flood testing:

Improper test practices have given this method a bad rap. When undertaken by a professional and competent roof leak detection company after ensuring proper precautions, flood testing is very effective. The building leak detection team at UK always ensures that the roof is strong enough to take weight and the drainage system can take the pressure when water is released.

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Common Flat Roof Leakage Issues

Commercial buildings with flat roofs are susceptible to leakage issues and hence need regular leakage inspection. Some of the common issues flat roof problems include:

1. Ponding/Standing Water:
Water that stands on a roof without draining away is always a problem and a major source for leakage. The water collected may seep into the ceiling causing leaks. A slight slope towards the drainpipe can help to solve the problem. Drains should be cleaned regularly to prevent blockage. Ponding water can also damage the waterproofing membrane within the roof.

2. Improper and Hasty Repairs:
Undertaking repairs without properly examining the source of the problem can cause several issues. Professional leak detection companies in the UK and Ireland often use sophisticated techniques like infrared thermography and earth leak detection to determine the exact source and cause of the problem. Similarly using improper materials can cause more harm than good.

3. Blistering:
Water trapped between the roof surface can cause the membrane to detach, thereby causing leakage issues. The problem is typically worse during the day when the heat from the sun causes the moisture within to expand.

4. Improper Care and Lack of Maintenance:
Flat roofs should be subjected to regular inspection to prevent repairs. While it makes sense to enlist the services of a professional leak detection company, you can also conduct a visual inspection from time to time. Simple signs like ponding water, blistering can effectively point towards a potential leak.

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Common Reasons for Roof Leaks

It is not good idea to assume that water leaking from the ceiling is directly coming from a leak or hole directly above it. The water can get in from just about anywhere to wend its way down the roof deck before dropping from the ceiling.

For primary UK and Ireland leak detection, consider what expert inspectors suggest – start from outside and look for any of the following troubles before heading up to the attic:

1. Plumbing Penetrations

Penetration may be made for plumbing vent pipes, ventilation fan ducts, exhaust fuel pipes and many others. Metal flashing around such penetrations and cracked or worn out rubber flashings around the pipe are some of the most common reasons for the leak.

2. Skylight

Many corporate buildings have roof atriums or skylights to allow light inside. During rain, the skylights can start leaking due to the vents made for its installation or failed seals. 

3. Flashing

Any thin metal strip, sheet or angle that covers a transition point or seam of the roof is known as flashing. Roof leaks may start from the point where the flashing is corroded or otherwise cracked, or if it has been wrongly fitted

4. Tiled roofs

According to emergency water leak detection experts in the UK, tile damage may cause leaks over time, especially if the underslating membrane is damaged, which can result in a severe leak. Many times, a missing tile or unsealed eaves or ridges can causes roofs to leak.

5. Other types of roof

Leaks can happen in sheeted roofs and green roofs – ie those with soil and plants on top due to the awareness on Eco-friendly living.

Above are just few common reasons of a roof leak that needs to be inspected if the ceiling is seen to be suffering from leaks or there is leaking elsewhere, such as down walls or windows. Engaging an expert for exact detection is highly recommended.

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