Bespoke differential pressure testing

 

 

Accurately identifying the precise location of water ingress in the roof area requires a diligent assessment of the specific roof construction and the membrane type, in order to  determine the appropriate testing method. Independent Test House, Thornton Consulting provides a comprehensive roof leak detection service for clients throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Their DifferentialPressure Testing technique was developed for when electronic testing is technically incorrect or isn’t suitable for the membrane category or the particular roof construction, as found for example with  EDPM membranes or a timber decks which are non-conductive.   

Differential Pressure Testing for roof leaks is a non-destructive, and cost-effective method that assesses a roof's integrity by creating a pressure differential between its interior and exterior. This process involves sealing the building and pressurising it while simultaneously measuring the pressure difference. If the roof is intact, the pressure should remain stable. However, if there are leaks, the pressure will drop, indicating compromised areas. Thornton Consulting’s experienced team of Field Technicians use specialised vacuum chamber equipment to pinpoint and identify leaks precisely. Air is drawn through a surfactant which has been applied over the membrane laps, enabling integrity testing. This method is particularly effective for flat or low-slope roofs, where water infiltration can be challenging to detect through other means. It provides a reliable and efficient way to diagnose and address potential roof vulnerabilities.

This testing tool has proved to be an invaluable asset in the wide range of techniques employed by Thornton Consulting for verifying the integrity of newly installed waterproofing systems, reassuring clients that their roof is sound and watertight. Differential Pressure Testing is valued by roofing operatives, main contractors and manufacturers of waterproofing materials where traditional testing methods are not viable. For the past four decades, their client-focused leak detection service has been procured by owners of commercial, industrial properties, municipal car parks, hospitals and large residential blocks. Ensuring the roof’s integrity and timely resolution of any breaches gives peace of mind that the investment is secured.

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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