Water leakages are surfacing with the recent rainy season. If not detected and addressed promptly, they can cause extensive damage. Understanding why water leakage occurs, the signs to watch for, and the available leak detection methods can help property owners manage water damage before costly repairs are needed.
In this guide, we’ll explore the causes and signs of water leakage and explain how advanced leak detection technologies—thermal, ultrasonic, and borescope—aid in tracing water sources accurately and non-invasively.
Why Does Water Leakage Occur?
Water leakage can stem from several factors, and understanding these can guide both preventive measures and corrective actions:
Aging and Wear: Over time, building materials like tiles, grout, and waterproofing membranes deteriorate. In older buildings, waterproofing can break down, leading to leaks through walls and floors. The rate of wear-and-tear is higher for vulnerable areas which are highly exposed to water or rainwater such as toilets, balconies, roof, etc.
Structural Shifts: Buildings experience natural settlement and expansion, which can cause cracks in walls, foundations, or concrete slabs, creating pathways for water ingress.
Improper Installation: Plumbing or waterproofing that isn’t properly installed can lead to leaks, which can be challenging to detect until they become significant. One common example of improper installation is concealed plumbing where the weak joints, such as the elbows and tees, are not connected properly.
Environmental Factors: Frequent rain and high humidity levels, as seen in Singapore, can introduce more moisture into building structures, weakening waterproofing and allowing water seepage.
Clogged Drainage Systems: Clogged pipes, drains, or downspouts can cause water to back up, infiltrating floors and walls instead of draining away. This is a common occurrence on flat roofs, roof gutters, etc.
Common Signs of Water Leakage in Residential and Commercial Properties
Recognizing early signs of leakage can prevent minor issues from escalating into major damage. Here are some warning signals to watch for:
Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls: Often a brownish colour, these stains indicate where water has seeped in and may suggest leakage above or behind the surface. Presence of efflorescence, coupled with these brownish stains, would further support an active seepage concern.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Moisture can cause paint to bubble or peel, and wallpaper to loosen, signalling possible seepage in the wall.
Musty Odours: A damp smell often accompanies hidden water damage, indicating possible mould growth due to moisture. This is common for basements and built-in cabinet areas (adjoining to bathroom walls).
Warped Flooring: If wooden or laminate floors are swelling or warping, water might be leaking beneath or around them. One common area would be toilet entrances where waterproofing membrane are often not applied appropriately along the toilet entrance joints during construction.
Increased Water Bills: Unexplained increases in water usage can indicate an ongoing concealed pipe leak or underground pipe leak, especially for older properties.
Advanced Leak Detection Technologies to Trace Water Leakage
When it comes to identifying the exact source of a leak without invasive measures, modern leak detection methods play a critical role. Here’s a look at the three primary technologies that can help.
Thermal Leak Detection
Thermal leak detection is a non-invasive technique that uses infrared cameras to detect temperature variations in building materials. When water is present, it alters the temperature of the surrounding material, appearing as distinct colour variations on the thermal image.
Thernal Leak Detection Method
Thermal imaging devices capture infrared radiation, allowing leak detection specialists to visualize temperature differences across walls, floors, and ceilings. Areas with abnormal thermal readings, typically cooler due to moisture, indicate possible leak locations.
Thernal Leak Detection Applications
Thermal leak detection is commonly used for:
- Capturing main concentrations of dampness on walls and ceilings in both residential and commercial settings.
- Detecting moisture behind surfaces, especially useful in areas with visible mould or staining.
Ultrasonic Leak Detection
Ultrasonic leak detection technology relies on sound waves to detect leaks. When water escapes from a pipe under pressure, it creates high-frequency sounds, which can be detected by specialized ultrasonic devices.
Ultrasonic Leak Detection Method
An ultrasonic leak detector is placed along the suspected concealed pipe line in an attempt to capture any anomalies in sound frequencies. The device amplifies these sounds, enabling leak detection specialists to detect leaks through concrete and other dense materials.
Ultrasonic Leak Detection Applications
Ultrasonic leak detection is highly effective in locating leaks in pressurized water pipe lines, including water lines in commercial and industrial spaces. It is ideal to have the pipe plan to increase the accuracy of leak detection, especially for larger and complex pipe systems.
Borescope Leak Detection
Borescope leak detection involves using a small camera attached to a flexible tube, allowing specialists to inspect hard-to-reach areas visually. This method is especially effective for narrow or concealed spaces where other detection methods may not reach.
Borescope Leak Detection Method
A small camera, often equipped with LED lighting, is inserted into tight spaces (such as behind walls or inside risers). The camera transmits real-time visuals to a screen, allowing the technician to inspect for any signs of leakage, corrosion, or damage.
Borescope Leak Detection Applications
Borescope leak detection is ideal for:
- Inspecting small or confined spaces, such as within walls or risers.
- Identifying corrosion or damage in pipes where other methods may be insufficient.
- Providing visual evidence of leak locations for more targeted repairs.
Why Non-Invasive Leak Detection Matters
Using advanced leak detection technology allows property owners and facility managers to address water issues proactively, reducing the need for costly, invasive measures. Here’s why these methods are advantageous:
Minimally Disruptive: These techniques identify leak locations with minimal invasive works.
Cost-Effective: Early, accurate detection prevents small leaks from escalating, reducing repair costs.
Environmentally Friendly: Pinpointing leaks helps conserve water, supporting sustainability goals.
When to Engage a Leak Detection Specialist
If you notice any of the signs of water leakage discussed, it’s wise to consult a professional leak detection company. The specialist will recommend the best method based on your property’s structure and the suspected leak source, ensuring a thorough and accurate inspection.
Conclusion
Tracing water leakage is a precise, science-backed process that helps property owners manage water ingress effectively. With the help of advanced leak detection methods—thermal imaging, ultrasonic detection, and borescope inspection—you can identify the source of the leak without invasive procedures, ultimately protecting your property from water damage.
If you suspect a leak or want to learn more about how leak detection can benefit your property, reach out to our team of experts. We’re here to help you, contact us today.