Thickness Testing
Ultrasonic thickness testing is a non-destructive test method conducted using an ultrasonic thickness gauge to discern the total thickness of an installed waterproofing membrane.
The thickness readings are obtained by measuring the time taken for the ultrasonic signal to propagate from the probe to the coating/substrate interface and back. This test provides the data needed to verify a waterproofing system is applied to achieve the specified.
Waterproofing Integrity technicians use calibrated gauges on waterproof coatings in accordance with Standards.
Electronic Leak Detection
Electronic Leak Detection is a testing method applied to many waterpoofing membranes as a method of checking for the continuity of the membrane.
Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) is a type of continuity testing, comparable to a flood test in performance. ELD creates an electric circuit through a non-conductive membrane to find coating film discontinuities that are not readily visible.
Waterproofing Integrity utilise a number of types of electronic leak detection with a view to being fit for purpose and benefits that each offers.
Holiday Testing is most commonly used on Waterproofing Integrity projects as an efficient testing on exposed membrane. It is a dry test which can be utilised for speed or inability to flood an area.
Waterproofing Integrity otherwise possess other electronic leak detection methodologies which are achieved with a low voltage DC current through wet applications. Vector Mapping, sponge and other methods are able to detect breaches in waterproofing membrane applications and may be prescribed in specifications. Vector mapping can also be used over tiles on balconies, podiums or rooftops.
Compliance
Australian Standards, the National Construction Code and Housing Provisions outline minimum requirements to be adhered to waterproofing system installations. Coupled with architectural designs and material selection, waterproofing isn't as simple as applying a coating.
Waterproofing Integrity inspectors are educated in what is required and can assess compliance with prescribed falls, terminations and detailing.
Adhesion Testing
Ensuring the bond of a waterproofing membrane to a substrate can play an important consideration in the overall performance of the waterproofing application. Adhesion testing is a destructive test most commonly applied on exposed areas such as rooftops and podiums.
Adhesion testing is a destructive test method conducted using aluminium dollies connected to a hydraulic pump to discern the bond strength that a membrane has to the substrate. Membranes that are designed to be fully bonded to their will exhibit reduced performance where a sufficient bond is not present. An exposed membrane that has de-laminated from its substrate can be more easily cut torn when force is applied.
Adhesion can be prescribed in architectural, engineers and material supplier specifications to be carried following installation.