“We have seen an extraordinary demand for waterproof assessment services for high-rise buildings as more people have encountered the failure of their existing waterproofing.”
Due to their practical (allowing the placement of objects like air conditioning units on them) and aesthetic advantages, flat roof structures are frequently utilized in a variety of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial ones. Yet, because flat roofs do not drain as rapidly as angled roofs, they are more vulnerable to water penetration and damage than pitched rooftops. Therefore, using the proper waterproofing systems is crucial to avoid water infiltration and shield the structure from moisture-related issues including mold, decay, and structural damage. Although concrete is solid and strong, it has repeatedly been shown to be a poor water insulator. Instead, some of the most popular waterproofing membranes used on flat roofs include bitumen-based, rubber, and cementitious membranes. Over the time, these materials may deteriorate and lose their effectiveness, which can lead to costly and disruptive repair.
Due to their practical (allowing the placement of objects like air conditioning units on them) and aesthetic advantages, flat roof structures are frequently utilized in a variety of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial ones. Yet, because flat roofs do not drain as rapidly as angled roofs, they are more vulnerable to water penetration and damage than pitched rooftops. Therefore, using the proper waterproofing systems is crucial to avoid water infiltration and shield the structure from moisture-related issues including mold, decay, and structural damage. Although concrete is solid and strong, it has repeatedly been shown to be a poor water insulator. Instead, some of the most popular waterproofing membranes used on flat roofs include bitumen-based, rubber, and cementitious membranes. Over the time, these materials may deteriorate and lose their effectiveness, which can lead to costly and disruptive repair.
Bitumen Waterproofing: Why does it fails?
Because of their extremely poor weathering capabilities, torch-on membranes have a very short useful life. Due to weather changes, they tend to crack and cause leakages. This could allow water to damage the roof structure by penetrating it. Also, because the membranes’ rolls are typically just 1 m x 10 m in size, there are numerous overlaps. Furthermore, because it calls for the use of gas, flames, primer, etc., the installation of such membranes is exceedingly laborious and dangerous. On areas where these torch-on based membranes are applied, no water ponding or accumulation is permitted. Asphalt, an oil-based product, breaks down whenever there is an accumulation of water. Most torch-on membranes only last between three and five years before they need to be changed, which is a repeated cost to the owner.
Rubber Waterproofing: Why does it fails?
Rubber roofing can deteriorate over the time due to UV rays and temperature changes. Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), a synthetic rubber with exceptional heat, cold, and moisture resistance, is the main component of rubber roofing. Nevertheless, exposure to UV rays over time can make EPDM brittle and shrink, resulting in the formation of cracks and holes in the roofing material. Moreover, environmental pollutants and chemicals can harm EPDM, degrading the substance and jeopardizing its waterproofing capabilities. If there is a crack or a place for water to seep in, it will do so, generating large water bubbles under the surface that will weaken the structure of the building.
Cementitious Waterproofing: Why does it fails?
A cement-based polymer coating is used in cementitious waterproofing. The cement cannot stretch or expand because it lacks an elastic characteristic. As a result, dry conditions may crack the concrete and beat the overall purpose of waterproofing.
Damage resulting from waterproofing failure
Although the causes of waterproofing degradation can be complicated, they all have comparable effects. A variety of concerns, including cosmetic ones like staining and discoloration as well as more serious structural ones like rot and decay, concrete cancer, and electrical problems, can be brought on by water infiltration. In addition, water infiltration can foster the formation of mold and mildew, which can degrade indoor air quality and endanger the health of building occupants.
What can you do?
Acting quickly could prevent months of remedial rectification work and significant repair costs if you have detected even small areas where water is dripping or ponding on your flat roof surface. Flat roof structures must be waterproofed, and a variety of materials are available to offer effective protection against water infiltration. In other words, regular maintenance and inspection will aid in spotting possible problems before they become expensive or disruptive repairs.
Also, you must balance few factors when choosing a waterproofing membrane for commercial building that include:
Even the most durable materials can deteriorate and lose their efficiency over time as a result of exposure to environmental elements including UV radiation, temperature changes, and chemicals.
Give us a call if you are worried about where water is entering your building; our team of specialists will be happy to identify the problem and then advise you on the most effective course of action.
In Structural Repairs (M) Sdn Bhd, we will often do a site inspection to identify the leak’s main root cause prior to making a recommendation for the best course of action. Rapid action can aid in lowering the scope and expense of the required repair.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information. Our team will be happy and glad to assist you. Kindly visit to our website at https://structuralrepairs.com.my/ or contact us at Tel: +603-91731728/29 Whatsapp: +60 12-334 9113
Also, you must balance few factors when choosing a waterproofing membrane for commercial building that include:
- Cost, including striking a balance between long-term cost effectiveness and short- term capital inputs.
- Time, including the length of time needed for a particular material to cure.
- Capacity and expertise of your contractors.
- Durability of the material, including UV and impact resistance.
- How various materials adhere, along with additional elements affecting your building’s walls and roof.
Even the most durable materials can deteriorate and lose their efficiency over time as a result of exposure to environmental elements including UV radiation, temperature changes, and chemicals.
Give us a call if you are worried about where water is entering your building; our team of specialists will be happy to identify the problem and then advise you on the most effective course of action.
In Structural Repairs (M) Sdn Bhd, we will often do a site inspection to identify the leak’s main root cause prior to making a recommendation for the best course of action. Rapid action can aid in lowering the scope and expense of the required repair.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information. Our team will be happy and glad to assist you. Kindly visit to our website at https://structuralrepairs.com.my/ or contact us at Tel: +603-91731728/29 Whatsapp: +60 12-334 9113
