Façade Maintenance WA has many years of investigating, finding and fixing commercial building leaks. Below we have outlined some of the most common causes of commercial building leaks we’ve investigated over the years.
Window Seal Leaks
Water can leak through poorly maintained or poorly fitted window seals. Seals can become loose and drop, we’ve all seen those dangling bits of rubber. These damaged seals can also become brittle in the harsh Western Australian sun or even be pecked out by birds thinking its food. The seals need to be cut out and re sealed with good silicone or replaced to stop leaks.
Pooling Water
The poor design of some roofs allows the rain to pool. This may in time damage the membrane allowing water to seep in behind the membrane, or fill up significantly enough to flow under roof sheeting. In some instances, the drainage system may not be properly dispersing the water.
Clogged Drainage
Drains, gutters, and downpipes can get clogged with leaves, twigs or rubbish. Regular checking especially before winter is highly recommended allowing water to properly flow freely.
Gaps in Façade Panelling
Gaps in façade panelling can also allow leaks into a building. It’s probably one of the hardest leaks to find and fix as they are rarely that obvious and can take some investigating.
Gaps in the Parapet Capping
When the rain is driving in the right direction it can get up and under the parapet capping. It then travels down the cavity collecting and pooling at the weakest location.
Damage Parapet Flashing
Flashings are installed to protect the edges of the roof membrane cover. If the flashing is damaged, improperly installed or becomes loose due to wind or storms, edges of the roof cover are often exposed. This allows moisture and water to seep in to the roof sheeting and building.
Roof Penetrations
Roof Penetrations are roof top items such as pipes, drains, and air condition units etc that puncture a roof’s membrane. All roof penetrations are prone to leaks and must be secured properly with silicone to ensure that the roofing system is protected from water damage. The silicone seals should also be checked regularly.
Roof Membrane Damage
The membranes function is to prevent water from reaching the building’s interiors. Roofing membrane ages, the material may split or crack, giving way to water and exposing the roof beneath the membrane. The condition of the membrane is vital for preventing commercial roof leaks.
Age of the Roof
In time commercial roofing systems will start to deteriorate. 15-20 years after installation it may start to allow leaks.
We hope this article has been informative, there are no guarantees when dealing with water but Façade Maintenance WA has a successful track record of investigating, finding and fixing building leaks.
Don’t forget when accessing most commercial roofs, there will be safety systems and procedure requirements. We are trained and familiar with these requirements as well as working at heights. Give us a call if leaking has been a concern.
