Common Weak Areas in Buildings
Having a simple understanding of the common weak areas in a building can take us a step closer in identifying the most probable sources of water leakages before implementing the most appropriate water leakage treatment.
Ceiling-and-Wall Joints
One of the most common areas where water leaks occur is at the junction where the reinforced concrete ceiling meets the walls. This happens because the junction is often sealed with caulk or joint compound, which can deteriorate over time. As a result, water from a worn-out waterproofing system or a leakage from defective plumbing system can seep through these weakened joints, leading to accumulation of efflorescence, development of stalactites and potentially damaging the structure.
Joints between two different elements
In many buildings, a weak joint between two different elements can lead to recurrent water leakage issues over time. Some examples include window frame-and-wall joint, door frame-and-wall joint, air vent-and-roof tile joints, polycarbonate shelter-and-concrete slab joints, etc. This vulnerability often arises when the sealant or waterproofing system surrounding the joints deteriorates, permitting water intrusion.
Pipe Surroundings
Pipes that pass through walls or floors are another common source of water leaks. Over time, the joints around these pipes can degrade or become damaged, allowing water to seep through. This is especially prevalent in inter-floor leakages, especially in bathrooms, wet kitchens or service yards where there are discharge pipes coring through the slab, resulting in water leakage in the corresponding lower floor’s ceiling.
Wet Areas with Worn-out Waterproofing Systems
Areas that are frequently exposed to water, such as bathrooms, kitchens and external balconies, rely on waterproofing systems to keep water from seeping into the structure. Unfortunately, these systems can degrade over time due to wear and tear or weather conditions, leading to eventual water leakage issues. As tiles and tile grouting are all porous, water is able to seep beneath the tiles and compromise the waterproofing system.
Concealed Leaking Pipes in Basements or Subsoil
Especially so in landed houses, water pipes run through basements or are buried in the subsoil beneath the property. These pipes can develop leaks that go unnoticed for an extended period, causing substantial damage over time such as saturating the soil around it, which can potentially lead to foundation damage and water intrusion into the internal basement areas. More often than not, home owners will only be made aware of a possible pipe leak when there are abnormalities in their monthly water bills. A sudden spike in water bills despite normal usage, might indicate a possibility of a concealed pipe leak which requires further tracing to pinpoint the exact location of leakage.
Water Leak Detection Techniques
Detecting water leaks within your property might seem daunting, but there are several techniques which we can engage depending on the types of water leakage such as the following:
Visual Inspection and isolation tests
Start with a visual sweep of your property. Look for any signs of water damage, such as damp spots or brown water stains on walls or ceilings, bubbling or peeling paint, damaged false ceiling or mould growth. These visual hints can often help you identify the closest source of water so that you can narrow down the possibilities before engaging the most relevant repair works.
It is also advisable for home owners to adopt a logical, step-by-step approach to identify the sources of water leaks by conducting isolation tests. One simple example to illustrate would be when a home owner attempts to identify if it is a pipe leak or a waterproofing issue in their bathrooms. One way to isolate and test this would be to turn off all water supply and drain all pipes to monitor if the seepage persists.
Thermal Leak Detection
Infrared thermal imaging cameras detect temperature differences, and where there’s water, there’s a temperature shift. Being slightly different from X-ray as it is not able to reflect the exact layout of concealed piping in the building structure, it remains an excellent technique for detecting the presence of moisture in walls, ceilings and floors. When pointed at a wall, ceiling, or floor suspected of harbouring a concealed water leak, the camera displays a visual representation of temperature differences. Cool, damp spots that may be invisible to the naked eye stand out vividly, indicating potential trouble areas. This allows our water leakage specialist to identify the most probable source of the leak without invasive procedures like hacking or tearing down walls or floors.
Ultrasonic Leak Detection
Leveraging on the ever-advancing technology, ultrasonic leak detection equipment helps to zero in on the most probable location of the leak, even if it’s buried underground. This advanced technology relies on the principle that pressurized water escaping from leaks creates high-frequency sound waves that are often imperceptible to the human ear. With the equipment’s high sensitivity and precision, this technique can pick up these ultrasonic signals, making it an ideal choice for pinpointing hidden water leaks. This non-invasive approach minimizes damage to structures, reduces water wastage, and ultimately saves both time and money.
Borescope Leak Detection
Imagine having a tiny camera on a long, flexible wire. You can snake it into pipes or tight spots to take pictures and videos. This non-invasive method is like having a peek behind the scenes to uncover those hard-to-reach leaks. Common applications include inserting the borescope into risers in condominium bathrooms to detect for pipe leakages at joints or elbows, discharge pipes from top floor balconies in landed houses. etc.
In conclusion, tackling water leaks isn’t as intimidating as it may seem. By following these simple steps and using the right water leak detection techniques, you can become a skilled water leak detective in your own home. Remember, catching a water leak early can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. So, stay vigilant, and don’t let those leaks sneak up on you! Speak with our professional water leakage specialist today.