Leakage detection
Leakage detection and diagnosis in Singapore buildings
Finding the source of a leak is an engineering problem: water travels along slabs, joints and pipes before it appears. We combine non-destructive tests in a logical sequence to identify the source, then recommend a repair that addresses the cause.
Methods we use
| Method | What it does | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Visual inspection & history | Pattern of staining, timing relative to rain or water use, and building details often narrow the source before any instrument is used. | All cases |
| Moisture mapping | Non-invasive and pin meters, with readings on a grid to show moisture gradients towards the source. Readings are relative and material-dependent. | Ceilings, walls, floors |
| Infrared thermography | Detects temperature differences from evaporative cooling or thermal mass of wet materials. Needs suitable temperature difference and careful interpretation of reflections and emissivity. | Roofs, slabs, façades |
| Flood (ponding) test | Controlled water head on a waterproofed area for a set duration, with observation below. Isolates membrane defects from pipe leaks. | Bathrooms, balconies, roofs |
| Spray / water penetration test | Sequential spraying from bottom up to isolate a façade, window or joint entry point. | Windows, curtain walls, joints |
| Pipe pressure testing | Isolates and pressure-tests supply pipes to detect concealed plumbing leaks. | Concealed pipes |
| Acoustic & tracer gas detection | Locates pressurised pipe leaks by sound or tracer gas where pipes are concealed. | Supply pipes |
| Electronic leak detection (ELD) | Low- or high-voltage methods to pinpoint breaches in membranes (substrate-dependent). | Roof and podium membranes |
| Borescope / CCTV | Visual inspection inside ceiling voids, cavities and drainage pipes through small openings. | Ceiling voids, drains |
Our investigation sequence
- Brief and history — when it leaks, after rain or water use, previous repairs.
- Non-destructive survey — moisture mapping and thermography to define the affected zone.
- Isolation tests — flood, spray or pressure tests to confirm the entry point.
- Root cause — why the barrier failed (workmanship, detailing, movement, material ageing).
- Repair methodology — specifiable repair scope, sequence and verification test.
Instrument readings are indicators, not proof on their own. Conclusions are drawn from consistent evidence across methods.
Looking for instruments? See leakage detection instrument suppliers and infrared thermography suppliers.
Need an engineer to investigate a leak?
Email pe@qp.sg or WhatsApp +65 9800 4385 with photos, location and how long the leak has been occurring.