Electronic testing of waterproofing membranes is useful in quickly establishing the integrity of the waterproofing and locating any breaches therein. Thornton Consulting have recently upgraded some of our pinhole / holiday test detectors to the latest models supplied by the UK’s leading Company in this sector.
This equipment is particularly useful as part of our Electronic Leak Detection service and is commonly used to locate breaches in single ply membranes, such as PVC and TPO, or liquid applied waterproofing systems.
The sensitive equipment is able to detect the smallest breaches in the waterproofing, hence the name pinhole testing or pinhole detector, and is operated by sweeping a phosphor-bronze brush over the surface of the dry waterproofing. A high voltage is passed through the brush which triggers an alarm when a breach is located in the membrane, effectively completing an electrical circuit. The test, therefore, relies on the electrical insulating properties of some membranes and the conductive properties of the substrate to be affective. As such, it is not suitable for all membrane types or roof constructions, but when the right criteria are met, it is highly effective at detecting breaches.
Due to the versatility of the equipment with its variety of attachments it can be utilised for testing both large roof areas and also smaller more difficult to reach places, where space is at a premium. For that reason, we regularly use this equipment for integrity testing of newly installed membranes and when combined with other tests is also an effective tool in locating historic leaks as part of our building leak detection service.
In addition, as part of a regular inspection and maintenance programme, the test can be used to detect breaches which can then be repaired before they become a serious issue and potentially prevent future leaks.
Information on all our testing services is available on our website, alternatively please contact our team will be happy to discuss your individual requirements. Please call 01342 410508 for further details.
