Friday, April 26, 2024
HomeleakHow To Stop Water Leakage From Concrete Roof

How To Stop Water Leakage From Concrete Roof

Waterproofing In Toilet And Shower

How to Repair Leaking Concrete Roof Slab – Liquid Waterproofing Membranes – Melbourne WATERPROOFING

Toilets and showers are always exposed to water and moisture. The flushing water and floor wash can result in ingress of water into the concrete slabs. Water proofing the concrete slabs of toilet floors consists of three main steps. It starts by providing a screed of cement mortar mixed with waterproofing agent layer of 20mm. It is then cured for 3 days.

Above that 112 mm thick brick bat layer is laid in random pattern to avoid joint symmetry. The gaps between brick bats are filled with cement sand mortar mixed with polymer. This layer is cured from next day and continued for 3 more days.

The last layer or bedding is 10 mm-20 mm thick, made of cement sand mortar mixed with waterproofer. It is laid to make the floor slope towards the drain. Curing is done for 10 days by ponding for this layer. This waterproofing process ensures that no water from toilets and showers seeps into the concrete slab.

What Are The Common Problems With Flat Roofs

In Malaysia, concrete structures are designed based on BS 8110: Structural use of concrete Code of practice for design and construction. This code was developed based on the temperate climate and non-seismic zones of Britain. A study done at the University of Malaya has revealed that the average temperature on a flat roof in Malaysia is 82°C at 1.30pm and 17°C at 4.00am. This huge temperature variation of 65°C is uncommon in the UK. Although the expansion and movement of concrete joints are not specified in BS 8110, they are crucial in countering such intense stress and movement induced by heat and other possible movements in the tropics. Sadly, I have yet to see stratified buildings with suitable joints in their roofing systems.

Flat roofs are also highly susceptible to developing standing pools of water, also known as ponding. This stagnant water causes the following:

  • Encourages the unsightly deposition of dirt and leaves, which may also obstruct outlets
  • Becomes a slip hazard
  • When there is damage, the building may suffer greater water ingress
  • Increases the dead load of the building and causes the concrete deck to creep , deflect and crack due to settlement .

Therefore, crack-bridging a system that provides protection to the upper layers of a concrete surface when the concrete and other materials move and shift is critical to counter these behaviours in concrete components.

SEE WHAT OTHERS ARE READING: Guaranteed rental return properties: Is it worth investing?

Preparing Concrete Surface Prior To Waterproofing

It is extremely important to prepare and clean any surface meticulously before applying a new waterproofing membrane.

Our Team had to complete extensive preparation to the badly leaking and deteriorated concrete substrate prior to spray-on application of a Liquid Rubber Membrane.

  • While the actual roof substrate was still in good condition, the existing polyurethane membrane was in a very poor state allowing water to penetrate through the concrete roof.

Existing failed roof membrane

Removal of existing failed membrane prior to installation of new LIQUID WATERPROOFING.

  • To ensure a permanent waterproofing solution for this roof, we started off by removing the old defective membrane by using mechanical scrapers.
  • Once the deteriorated polyurethane membrane was removed, we then proceeded to cleaning the concrete roof to ensure a good adhesion for the new Liquid Rubber Membrane.

Roof membrane prior to remedial work by the crew at Findlay-Evans – See our Client Testimonials HERE

You May Like: How Much Shingle Roof Cost

Causes Of Water Leakage From Concrete Roof

Cracks, pores, and joints in the concrete structure acts as a passage of least resistance for seepage of water through them resulting in water leakage. The major causes of formation of this seepage path in concrete structures are listed out as follows:

  • Cracks in slabs may arise due to excessive deflections caused by overloading, implementation of faulty structural design, inadequate design considerations.
  • Adoption of higher water-cement exceeding 0.6 to 0.7 makes the concrete more porous and permeable resulting in capillary action.
  • Extreme climatic conditions result in simultaneous thermal expansion-contraction, shrinkage, creep resulting in the formation of cracks with can be prevented by providing joints.
  • Ineffectively filled expansion joints and other construction joints may result in water leakage in concrete structures.
  • Improper aggregate proportion, poor mixing, and inadequate compaction will result in honeycombing of concrete forming larger voids.
  • Poorly/uniformly graded aggregate materials also result in a large number of pores and weaker bonds in concrete structures.
  • Spalling of concrete due to corrosion of reinforcement give rise to cracks.
  • Vegetative growth in concrete structure give rise to cracks and abrasion.
  • Adaptation of improper construction techniques, poor construction quality, and poor workmanship may result in faulty concrete structures full of formation of cracks and voids.
  • Use of waterproofing materials likes tiles and marbles of poor quality.
  • Solutions For Concrete Roof Water Leakage

    How to Prevent Roof Leakage and Water Leakage

    Vseal Engineering Sdn. Bhd. offers you several options to mitigate the concrete roof water leakage issues.

    PU Injection Cracks Repair

    PU Injection is one of the most common method to stop the active leakage with immediate effect. From the bottom of the concrete slab, our specialist will drill holes at the water leakage area . Subsequently, install the nozzle and pressurize the chemical into the concrete to seal the cracks. The chemical will inflate and eventually seal off the cracks and stop the water leakage. For details, please visit our PU Injection solutions.

    Liquid Applied Waterproofing VHbrid Waterproofing Solutions

    VHbrid Waterproofing solutions is a method of liquid applied waterproofing solutions. VHbrid is a liquid waterproofing paint where when it dries it forms a tough rubber like membrane to prevent water leakage. VHbrid is UV resistant where the service termperature can up to 115oC, which is very suitable for our tropical climate. VHbrid provides you the 500% elongation which make the rubber like membrane more elastic ever. More importantly, VHbrid is a READY TO USE products, where doesnt require complex mixing. For more information, please visit our VHbrid Waterproofing System.

    Torch on Waterproofing Membrane VProof Waterproofing Solutions

    In order to understand more about concrete roof leakage or which concrete roof waterproofing membrane suitable for your need, call us today for consultation! 03-5021 9289

    You May Like: How To Install Skylight On Metal Roof

    Problems With The Deisgn And Construction Of Flat Concrete Roofs

    Reinforced flat concrete roofs must be carefully designed and properly constructed in order to avoid problems of poor drainage, cracking and leaks. Here we look at the problems, how they are caused and how to avoid them.

    In Bali these days, in spite of the Balinese request that all buildings should have traditional sloping Balinese roofs, flat concrete roofs have become commonplace and, as it happens, leaks in flat concrete roofs have become almost as commonplace.

    Maintenance And Repair Of Flat Roof

    The service lifespan of roofing systems may be significantly extended with periodic maintenance, ideally twice a year. A maintenance manual containing basic information and guidance for inspection and maintenance should be kept, and the scope should include flashing, expansion joint covers, copings, edges, termination, membranes and choked rainwater downpipes. Other than that, soffit under flat roofs must be checked for potential water leaks and corrosion damage.

    In the event of damage before the expiry of the service lifespan, repairs should only be carried out after the type and extent of defects have been determined and their underlying cause identified. Additionally, repairs should be carried out using only materials compatible with the existing roofing system.

    Once concrete spalling and rusty reinforcement steel bars have been located, diagnosis and repair according to EN1504: Products and systems for the protection and repair of concrete structures are recommended in order to mitigate and control the corrosion in the reinforcement steel bars. It is also important that the loading ability and rigidity of the affected structural components be restored in order for the remedial waterproofing system to perform optimally.

    Spalling concrete soffit. © Kuan You Wai

    MORE:6 tips to avoid problematic home contractors and how to choose the right ones

    You May Like: Roofing Costs In California

    What Is The Method To Seal A Concrete Roof

    We are staying in a home which has a concrete roof. Now we are facing leakage in the roof during rainy seasons. What do we have to do? How do we protect the roof from leaks?

    Concrete itself is not waterproof, in fact, it’s more like a sponge, so concrete alone is never used to create an impermeable surface. You haven’t provided much info – is the roof flat, sloped? What is already up there? There are tons of different waterproofing methods available.

    Going under the assumption that it was properly waterproofed at some point, you need to figure out why it’s leaking. Maybe there is damage to the roof, or maybe there is a drainage problem and water is just building up and finding its way in. Also possible is that the flashing around a vent or access hole has been bent away and water is getting behind it. Either way, you will first need to investigate and resolve the root problem and then fix it in-line with how it was already constructed. If the roof is tarred, you are not going to put down some other barrier.

    You will without a doubt have to go on the roof to check it out. If you’re not comfortable with this, its best to call a roofing expert.

    How To Stop Leakage From Rcc Roof

    Roof Waterproofing Membrane – Fix Water Leaks on Flat Concrete Roof

    Reinforced Cement Concrete is a type of concrete that uses metal slabs to add tensile strengths and durability. Cement is not very tensile and hence the use of metal adds an added layer of strength to the roof. Despite the string materials and technology, even RCC Roof is prone to water leakage if timely maintenance and repairs are not taken care of. Want to learn how to stop water leakage from the metal roof? Read on further:

  • Find the exact area of the leak.
  • Clear any dust or mould using a brush or broom
  • Change the broker or damaged shingles
  • Apply mortar
  • Also Check: Replacing Roof Trusses

    How To Stop Water Leakage From Asbestos Roof

    The term Asbestos stands for a mineral found in nature that is resistant to chemical degradation and can be easily moulded into any desired shape. Although recent reports have highlighted the safety hazards of using asbestos in your roof, if you already have one, and its leaking, we have some simple and easy fixes on how to stop water leakage from asbestos roof

  • Find the damaged area
  • Stop the leakage and remove anything covering the crack.
  • Replace the asbestos sheet and replace it with a new one.
  • Apply mortar
  • Seal with waterproof paint coating
  • This is a very simple yet effective roof leakage solution and you can follow it step by step for a permanent fix.

    Complete Guide For Fixing Roof Water Leaking

    A Leaking Roof is understandably a source of constant frustration. Nobody likes to have water dripping roof creating not only health complications but also causing serious damage to your property. Roof Leaking is more dangerous than House Drainage Leaking Problems, and may well lead to decay very fast in the foundations of your house, so needs immediate attention. To that end, you have to be very careful about taking the necessary precautions while finding a permanent solution for Roof Leakage. However, it is not rocket science but can be easily repaired and require a bit of expertise. We have put together some of the easy ways to stop Roof Leaking In The House.

    To start with, it is important to find the main spot of the leak. Note that a leaking roof denotes a broken shingle or patchy walls. It is important to note any crack in your ceiling will not start leaking immediately rather Roof Leakage takes time to form and find a place to drip. Sometimes even normal wear and tear can lead to a leaking roof if not taken care of properly.

    Finding the correct spot and repairing is important. Once you have narrowed down on the main spot of the leakage, below are the step to go about How To Stop Roof Leaking?

    • Find the leak spot
    • Repair damaged roof with Caulk
    • Apply roof leakage products
    • Fix the patch yourself with tar

    These might seem complex but dont you worry, they just sound complicated. Having a permanent water leakage solution for your roof is very easy, just follow as stated.

    Recommended Reading: How Many Screws Per Square For Metal Roofing

    Fixing Leakage From Rcc Roof

    Like concrete and cement, Reinforced Cement Concrete is also widely used in Pakistan. It is a type of concrete that uses metal slabs to add tensile strengths and durability. To its value, cement is not very tensile and hence the use of metal adds an added layer of strength to the roof. Despite the string materials and technology, RCC Roof too is prone to Water Leakage and needs timely maintenance and repair. In most cases, Constant leaking of the Water Tank leads toward the roof leaking so you should have to find the Water Tank Leaking Solutions, then after, go for the roof leaking solution. Here is how to find the possibilities:

    • Find the exact area of the leak.
    • Clear any dust or mold using a brush or broom
    • Change the broker or damaged shingles
    • Apply mortar
    • Apply a layer of waterproofing coat
    • Seal with paint

    What Types Of Concrete Roofs Do We Waterproof

    12 Roof Repair Tips: Find and Fix a Leaking Roof

    We offer concrete roof waterproofing across a range of industries and sectors:

    • Commercial concrete roof waterproofing by Multi-Dex is par for the course. Our extensive guarantee options offer businesses peace of mind, and the 3-year maintenance option takes the headache out of upkeep.
    • Retail concrete roof waterproofing is essential. Multi-Dex has completed projects for some of the largest complexes in South Africa. To ensure a seamless process, our installers are extensively trained and owner-supervised.
    • Industrial concrete roof waterproofing with Multi-Dex is the key to reducing your buildings carbon footprint and minimising structure depreciation. Experience spanning close on four decades means the Multi-Dex team can offer you a seamless process with a 10-year guarantee and a 3-year maintenance option.
    • Houses with concrete roofs

    Also Check: How Many Screws Per Square For Metal Roofing

    Roof Repair Why & How

    Roof, the fifth wall of the house is as important as all the other four.

    Roof, the fifth wall of the house is as important as all the other four. However, it needs extra care and maintenance as it is exposed to various climatic conditions. In this article I will be discussing some of the main reasons of roof leakage, how it affects your house and the ways to fix it.

    Why you need to repair the roof:

  • Leaky roof can damage the house structure in many ways, some of them are:
  • A leaky roof first damages the ceiling. Water makes its way from the roof to the ceiling and affects the ceiling plaster and paint. Plaster expands and paint starts to peel off from the ceiling.
  • This water can damage all the electrical fixtures mounted on the ceiling and can be very dangerous. If the house has a concealed wiring then roof leak can cause short circuit too.
  • Water leaking through the roof can easily make its way into the walls and can be a source of seepage and dampness in the house. Constant water intrusion can cause peeling of paint, dampness on the walls and cracking of plaster.
  • Dampness on the walls caused by leaky roof is a perfect spot for mold and mildew to grow. Mold then spreads all around the house and can be a cause of serious health issues like allergies, asthma and respiratory diseases.
  • Leaking roof can cause permanent damage in structural integrity of house.
  • First make sure that the surface is clean and dry.

    Powered by Dr Fixit The Waterproofing Expert

    Importance Of Durable Waterproofing Systems In Flat Roof

    Sufficient gradient without standing water is the first line of defence against leaking, according to BS 6229:2018 Flat roofs with continuously supported flexible waterproof coverings. Water management complements a good waterproofing system to realise the intended service lifespan of the drainage system. Ironically, standing water is common on flat roofs in Malaysia. BS 6229:2018 specifies a minimum finished fall of 1:80 at any point of a concrete flat roof with a liquid waterproofing system.

    To ensure that the minimum finished fall is achieved, allowance should be made for deflection of structural members and decking under dead and imposed loads, and for the construction tolerance. What this means is the fall for the design should be steeper than the recommended fall, and not be limited to the surface of the cement screed but extended to the surface where the waterproofing membrane is installed. If there is insufficient fall during the casting of the concrete slab, a layer of cement screed must be applied to achieve the desired fall.

    Read Also: How Many Screws Per Square For Metal Roofing

    Sealing Leaks And Waterproofing

    When repairing a leaking roof the fundamental issue is that it is the reinforced concrete that is leaking and the best approach is to remove the screed and expose the reinforced concrete so that leaks can be found and properly sealed. The screeding can then be replaced.

    This is a major undertaking and can seriously damage the roof if the people doing it don’t know what they are doing. For example using jackhammers to remove the old screed can crack the concrete roof underneath making the problem worse.

    We have been using specialist techniques for sealing concrete roofs by injecting the cracks. Such techniques can be carried out without removing the screed and have the added advantage of fully repairing the cracks effectively gluing the concrete back together again.

    It is vital that correct methods and properly selected materials must be used.

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular