Popular Methods Implemented in Commercial Property Flat Roof Leak Detection

The process of identifying a leaky roof is especially difficult for flat roofs, because the initial leak site does not always show itself early on. However, using some fail safe detection methods like electronic testing and flood testing, professionals in roof surveys can find the issue at hand.

Since businesses and commercial institutions have to keep their daily business going, they cannot afford a lot of downtime. It is best to go for some of the tried and tested methods of investigating roof leaks that are mentioned below.

Flood Testing 

In the event that the wet test process is not an option, flood testing is the go to method for it utilises large amounts of water to notice the effect of its pressure on the flat roof as a means for detection. Experts of flat roof leak detection in UK advise that it is best to ensure that the drainage system handle the excess water.

Electronic Testing 

 Earth leak detection is a process that tests the waterproofing solidarity of the flat roof as a whole to detect the origin of the problem. Since a majority of the casing is insulated, this aspect can be used to depend on the fact that water is a good conductor of electricity. Also called the wet test method, it identifies the root cause of the leak easily.

Even before your business or institution calls a roof repair company, it is vital that you have leak detection specialists in UK investigate the problem and suggest the best course of action.

Read More

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.

Read More

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.

Read More

What is Electronic Leak Detection?

Electronic leak detection is a simple but effective method used by professional leakage detection companies in the UK. The method is often hyped up by companies to justify unusually high consultation fees.

What is Electronic Leak Detection?

Electronic leak detection or earth leak detection are a series of procedures used to detect leaks. They’re ideal for all commercial establishments especially rail-road tracks, parking lots, etc. One method is the low voltage test for waterproofing membranes and is used by architects and construction companies. An electrically charged brush is used to pinpoint even the smallest hole on surfaces to report penetrations. When the equipment that is brushed through the surface comes in contact with a penetration source, an audible tone along with a spark is emitted. This is then used by the specialist to detect a hole.

What are the uses of Earth Leak Detection?

ELD or electronic leak detection is better than other techniques as they’re cost and time efficient. The source of leaks are precisely identified, hence repairs are precise. Tests can be conducted without interrupting day to day operations of a company or without damage to the property. Rather than guessing about potential problems, specialists can submit exact evidence of a problem. ELDs have helped a lot in issues where roofs were suspected to be the source of a problem, but the actual problem turned to be somewhere else. This has saved companies thousands of pounds in roof repair and replacement. Electronic Leak Detection is recognized in the UK as a standard method for leak detection. It is also included as a standard within the National Building Specifications to detect water leakage.

Read More