Have you encountered a mysterious puddle of water forming on the floor? Perhaps there is an unsightly black or yellow stain on the ceiling or wall that will not go away? In that case, you might be experiencing a water leakage within your property. This issue not only causes significant damage to the structure if not addressed promptly. It can also foster mould growth, jeopardising the health of those within the building.
Fortunately, there are various water seepage repair methods to help mitigate these risks. Let us explore five effective waterproofing solutions to address the leak before it worsens and compromises the integrity of the structure and the health of the tenants within the property.
Learn More: Proactive Solutions: How to prevent a water seepage?
Solution #1: Dry Packing
Dry packing, a technique where a dry cement mixture is compacted into cracks and crevices, is one of the most common sealing methods for water leaks. It is often effective for dealing with small cracks in concrete structures, with the dry mix absorbing any moisture present and sealing the crack, thus preventing further water ingress.
However, cement is still cement. In addition to its long drying time, this dry mix is not very flexible, as temperature fluctuations throughout the day can cause it to crack when the cement expands and contracts. As a result, this water seepage repair method may not always be suitable for Singapore’s tropical climate. Eventually, the cement coating may crack, causing the roof to become more susceptible to leakage.
Solution #2: PU Grouting
Polyurethane (PU) grouting involves the injection of polyurethane to fill up cracks found in the structure. Once the chemical is injected into the crevices, it expands and stops moisture from flowing through cracks and concrete joints. This water seepage repair method is particularly effective when used on the underside or negative side of water seepage.
However, this technique requires the waterproofing specialist to drill a hole into the suspected leakage area to treat the issue. Subsequently, they will insert a motorised pump to inject the polyurethane, filling up any void, space, or crack caused by water damage. Theoretically, this should allow the chemical to reach a wide surface area. But it is not guaranteed to fill in every hairline crack.
Solution #3: Water Pipe Leakage Repair
A damaged water pipe is often the primary cause of moisture ingress in residential and commercial properties. When this happens, prompt leakage detection and repair is essential to prevent water damage and wastage. The contractor will assess the severity of the damage and the location of the leak to determine the appropriate method for repairing the leaking pipes.
For minor leaks, the contractor may recommend using epoxy putty to form a watertight seal around the leak, patching the hole or crack appearing on the pipe. Alternatively, they may use rubber padding to cover the trouble spot and place a pipe repair clamp over it to create a tight seal, preventing water from leaking out of the pipe.
However, replacing the pipes may be necessary if the damage is severe. This water seepage repair method requires cutting out the damaged section and replacing it with a brand-new pipe utilising appropriate fittings to ensure a secure and leak-proof connection. Advanced techniques, like trenchless pipe repair, may also be employed, where a new pipe is inserted into the existing one without the need for extensive excavation.
Solution #4: Epoxy Coating
Epoxy coating is a cost-effective and reliable water seepage repair method for covering cracks in the structure and protecting surfaces from water leakage. This technique involves applying a layer of epoxy resin to the surface, creating a durable, waterproof barrier. Due to its high durability, chemical-resistant properties, and nonporous nature, epoxy coating is particularly useful for surfaces exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
Once the epoxy resin is applied and cured, it will form a seamless, impermeable layer that is resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and water. However, these benefits are temporary, as UV exposure can cause the coating to fade and wear away over time. You will need to touch up and re-layer the epoxy resin to maintain its integrity.
Solution #5: Hacking Waterproofing
As its name implies, this water seepage repair method requires hacking and removing the current damaged waterproofing layer. Once the damaged layer is removed, a new waterproofing membrane is applied to create a durable, impermeable barrier. While this technique is more invasive and requires a lot more time and cleanup, it is highly effective in addressing areas with persistent water ingress, such as balconies, basements, and rooftops.
By understanding and implementing the appropriate water seepage repair method, you can effectively mitigate water damage, ensuring a dry, safe, and durable home or work environment for everyone. If you need help preventing water leakage, we are the experts for you. Contact us to enquire about our prices and services today!