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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The benefits of flood testing for leak detection

 

 

Thornton Consulting provides a flood testing for leak detection service on commercial and large residential properties throughout the UK and Ireland and are specialists in locating and evaluating water ingress present on roofs and structures with waterproofing systems, for all leak infiltration sources.

 

It’s imperative to apply an accurate and precise leak detection method to establish the integrity of a roofs waterproofing system when leaks are manifesting internally to determine the leak source as efficiently as possible.

 

Various water integrity tests have been devised over the years, each with specific benefits and relevance of use.  When identifying the breach of any roof waterproofing membrane, flood testing for leak detection can in some circumstances be more appropriate and preferable to electronic methods. This is generally the case where the membrane is buried beneath a green roof or other finishes and can expedite the process of the leak investigation. It can also be beneficial where there are multiple water ingress sites or conductive membranes have been installed.

 

A leak can go undetected for a considerable amount of time and if left without attention, this can result in serious structural and costly damage to items such as internal finishes and electrical and mechanical systems. The first evidence may be visual signs of damp patches or mould growth appearing on the interior ceilings and walls with a distinct musty odour. However, when a leak is visible on a ceiling it can’t be assumed that this is the exact spot where the breach occurred. A flood test is an efficient way of establishing the integrity of the waterproofing in the vicinity if the leak, in the first instance, and can be accompanied by other test methods to accurately home in on the source.

 

Fluorescent, soluble dies can be applied during flood testing, enabling any water pathways to be identified and traced. This water integrity test can be carried out on any size of building structures, including commercial, residential blocks and industrial premises, ensuring there are no defects which may result in water penetration. It should be noted, however, that some preparatory works may be required in some circumstances.

 

Depending on the roof stability and the area covered, the flood leak testing procedure is generally carried out with internal monitoring over a period of up to 48 hours. Diligent pre-testing assessments are undertaken to ascertain that the weight-bearing properties and drainage system are suitable for the volume of water which will be applied. Thornton Consulting provides a reliable and cost-efficient service with a dedicated work-force of Consultants, Field Testers and knowledgeable office staff who all respect the company’s client-focused ethics and core-values.

 

For more information about our leak  detection services please call us on 01342 410508 or use our contact form

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Major consequences of commercial roof leak

Roof leaks might be a nuisance but it needs to be handled as soon as possible. No matter what, do not put off roof leak repairs or else you will have to face many unpleasant consequences. Here are the major outcomes of ignoring water leaks in your building,

•    If your establishment has a storage place, the materials present inside the units may get wet and ruined.

•    Leaks are usually caused because of an opening. The holes that let water in would also allow insects and small animals to get through. As a result, the holes would get enlarged and let in more pests.

•    If you establishment is in a cold region, the water that are trapped inside the building components would freeze and causes cracks and other damages.

•    Water leaks can create an unhealthy workspace for the employees by causing mold growth, which could bring about respiratory illness.

•    Other than the increased water bill, water leakage in the roof can affect the insulation of your building. As a result, your energy bills would escalate.

•    If the leaking water reaches electrical equipments, it could result in electric hazards and other life-threatening conditions.

So if there is anything that indicates water leaks in your building, consult with a leak detection specialist in UK immediately to identify the source so that you can deal with the repair. In UK, leak detection experts would provide you immediate answers with minimal interruption to your daily activities.

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Things you need to keep in mind while hiring leak detection specialist in UK

If you happen to notice any water leak symptoms in the roof of your commercial building, the first step you need to do is to verify its existence and then you can hire a roofer to fix the issue. However, identifying the primary source of the leak is no easy task and DIY leak detection techniques often lead to disappointment. Due to this, it is advised to consult with a leak detection specialist in UK so that you can fix the leak unconditionally.

The things you need to keep in mind when hiring a professional for leakage detection in UK,

•    You have to know how long the company is in business. Always prefer venerable companies over recent service providers, as they are more trust-worthy and dependable.

•    Check whether the company provides team of highly qualified and experienced technicians. You can also look for online reviews/testimonials about the company.

•    You have to make sure that the company uses advanced technology to detect leaks. This is important to detect leaks accurately and quickly with minimal damage to your building. Credible leak detection experts would definitely posses the required tools to offer the service you deserve.

•    The company must have been approved and sanctioned by relevant government bodies. You can confidently put your trust in licensed professionals as they are specifically qualified and trained for this particular task.

Choosing the right organization is very essential to attain satisfactory results.

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Tips to maintain flat roofs effectively

Most of the commercial, industrial and institutional establishments have flat roofs. Though flat roofs are quite costly to install or replace, they are not usually paid much attention as other building maintenance programs. Rather than letting the roof deteriorate, take time to maintain your flat roof regularly. By doing so, you can increase the lifespan of flat roofs and avoid spending money on unwanted repairs in the future.

Here are some suggestions for commercial flat roof maintenance,

•    Leak detection

It is recommended to hire a professional to perform flat roof leak detection in UK if there is any sign of leakage in your property. This is because flat roofs are highly vulnerable to water damages and leaks. If there is any leak in the roof, it would cause premature roof breakdown and costs your business a lot of money. To prevent this from happening, Leak detection specialist in UK would suggest how to resolve any issues regarding water leakage.

•    Eradicating drainage issues

Drainage pipes are often installed to avoid accumulation of water in flat roofs. But when there is any block in the pipes, water gets collected on the roof and cause many problems. So you have to make sure whether the drains are working properly at regular intervals.

•    Removal of debris

You need to keep your roof clear of debris and vegetation. They could cause clogged drains and interfere the roofs from drying out thoroughly, which would result in mold growth, leaks etc.

•    Understanding weight limitations

You should not overload the roofs. Each roof could support only a particular amount of weight. Take care not to exceed the weight limitations of the roof if you want to avoid any damage.

Follow these tips and make your flat roof last longer.

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Guidelines That Can Help You To Appoint A Perfect Leak Detection Specialist In UK

Water leaks can seriously affect your property. If you reckon any presence of leakage in the building of your industry or any commercial area, it is advised to confirm your suspicions about the damage before hiring servicemen to repair it. Locating the true source of the leak is not easy and can really be frustrating. Fault detections may hurt you financially in either way. A leak detection specialist can help you out of this situation.

Getting the help of the right leak detection specialist in UK is very important. They also have to be trust worthy, reliable and should have the right qualifications. Look for the following features before hiring,

•    The company that you go for must regard client and staff safety as their top priority. Hire a leak detection specialist in UK who holds a valid insurance coverage. This will protect you from any unfortunate event in which one of own employees or the consultant’s gets injured during the work

•    A licensed and qualified professional who has been approved by your local authority is always the right choice for you. Because,

o    They would have completed the training that makes them qualified specifically for the task in hand. For instance there are only few professionals who are qualified for Flat roof leak detection  in UK

o    They would be properly equipped with the required tools to deliver the service

•    Make sure that they have expertise in handling advanced technologies as it can make the process more targeted, involving less time and you can return to your normal functions quickly

You can rest in easy after the appointment of a specialist and wait for their validation of the situation. Then you can decide if you need a leakage repair or not.

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