Water Seepage Inspection

Water seepage is annoying to property owners. It is also challenging to engineers. Water seepage can be caused by various factors, such as cracks on external wall, honey comb concrete, defective sealant at window, and defective waterproofing membrane at roof and drainage pipe. Infrared thermographic technology is one of the effective solutions to diagnose water seepage problems.

Some water seepage problems may require concerted efforts from different parties. For example, water source comes from the upper floor but the residents of the upper floor may not cooperate with the residents of lower floor to solve the problem. Therefore, legal action may be required to force the residents of the upper floor to cooperate. Infrared thermographic report is a recognised proof for legal action in water seepage case.

Theory

Water infiltration into low slope roofing systems causes changes in the thermal properties of the roofing system. Thermal imaging is capable of detecting evidence of latent moisture due to changes in either the thermal conductivity and/or thermal capacitance of the roofing system.

What can be detected?

• latent moisture
• missing, damaged, or improperly installed insulation

Where can be applied?

Assurance check for waterproof membrane

• Flat roof
• Swimming pool
• Bath room
  

Water seepage

• Flat roof
• Swimming pool
• Kitchen & bath room
• Building external wall
• Water tank

Benefits

• locate water-damaged roof areas quickly and accurately
• can ensure the quality of new or retrofitted systems
• can avoid unnecessary replacement of parts of the roof that are in good condition (costly repair works)
• identify problems early before they become serious and costly
• help extend the life of the existing roof
• document problems before the warranty expires
• provide facts for planning accurate budgets
• scientific recognised proof for legal action in water seepage case