Locating Leaks with Electronic Leak Detection: A Cutting-Edge Solution for Existing Roofs and Decks

Are you experiencing a pesky leak on your existing roof or deck, but struggling to pinpoint its exact location? Fear not! Technological advancements have brought forth a revolutionary method known as Electronic Leak Detection (ELD), which can help solve this problem with ease. 

Electronic leak detection

ELD is a technique that utilizes electrical conductivity to locate leaks on roofs and decks accurately. It is particularly effective when the substrate, or the material beneath the surface, is conductive. This means that it works splendidly on surfaces such as metal, concrete, or wood with conductive coatings.

So, how does this cutting-edge technology work? 

ELD involves the use of specialized equipment that sends a low-voltage electrical current through the conductive material. By doing so, it creates an electrical field that can detect any breaches in the surface or membrane. When the current encounters a path of least resistance, usually caused by a leak, it completes the circuit and triggers an alarm and visual indication on the equipment, pinpointing the precise location of the issue. 

The benefits of ELD for locating leaks is abundant:

1️⃣ Accurate and Efficient: ELD is highly accurate in detecting leaks, allowing for targeted repairs rather than costly and time-consuming exploratory work. This saves both time and money.

2️⃣ Non-Destructive: Unlike traditional leak detection methods, ELD is non-intrusive and non-destructive. It eliminates the need for unnecessary probing, cutting, or digging, minimizing any potential damage to your roof or deck.

3️⃣ Versatile Application: ELD can be used on a wide range of roofing and decking materials, such as metal, concrete, or wood with conductive coatings. This makes it a versatile solution for various structures.

4️⃣ Time-Saving: With ELD, the detection process is efficient and swift. It enables roofing and decking professionals to locate leaks promptly, facilitating faster repairs and minimizing any potential damage caused by a prolonged leak.

Remember, while ELD is highly effective on conductive substrates, locating leaks may not be as simple for existing roofs and decks if the substrate is non-conductive. In such cases, alternative leak detection methods, such as infrared thermography or moisture meters, can be employed to identify leaks.

If you’re dealing with a leak on your existing roof or deck and the substrate is conductive, locating leaks with Electronic Leak Detection will be beneficial.

locating leaks in existing deck membranes with thermography

Contact Rommel for more information

Reach out to Rommel Ltd today as they are trained in ELD and thermography inspections. Rommel will help locate leaks to ensure your issue is resolved swiftly and accurately. 

FEATURES of the IntegriScan Waterproof Membrane Integrity Testing Service

  • The only ELD testing option for semi-conductive waterproofings and conductive membranes such as black EPDM.
  • The only low voltage ELD service that can reliably perform testing on vertical surfaces
  • Complies with ASTM D8231-19, which is the Standard Practice for the Use of a Low Voltage Electronic Scanning System for Detecting and Locating Breaches in Roofing and Waterproof Membranes.
  • Complies with ASTM Guide D7877-14 which is the Standard Guide for Electronic Methods for Detecting and Locating Leaks in Waterproof Membranes.
  • The only FM Approved ELD testing equipment
  • Verifies the water tightness of roofing and waterproofing membranes 
  • The most advanced, accurate, reliable, and cost-effective ELD testing method available
  • The scanning platform and vertical roller are used in conjunction for testing all areas including horizontals, verticals transitions and details.
  • Can test up to 3716 square metres per day.
  • Pinpoints breaches during membrane installation so repairs can be made immediately
  • Minimal setup time; NO perimeter wire required; NO need to isolate penetrations
  • Tests conventional assemblies with TruGround® Conductive Primer directly under the membrane
  • Can be used for forensic testing on existing roofs
  • Provides a more thorough overall assessment than electric field vector mapping (EFVM)
  • Superior alternative to flood testing
  • Manufactured in the USA