Services

Moisture can destroy a building’s structural integrity and nurture mould. The first step in moisture mitigation is to quickly and accurately locate and remove all sources of moisture. Our water leak detection equipment instantly show you what’s wet and what’s dry.

At Damp Away we specialize in professional water leak detection services for residential and commercial properties. Thanks to the skill of our water leak detectors, combined with quality detection equipment, leaks will not be able to hide from us! Whether you’re dealing with a water leak in your home or business, our expertise ensures the problem is identified and resolved efficiently.

METHODS WE USE TO DETECT WATER LEAKS

Using advanced tools such as a moisture leak detector, our team can accurately pinpoint hidden leaks without unnecessary disruption to your property. Our proven techniques and technical know-how allow us to locate even the most elusive water leaks quickly and effectively.

TRACER GAS DETECTION

Using tracer gas, we inject a safe, non-toxic gas into your supply lines. The gas escapes through any leaks, allowing us to pinpoint the source with a specialized detection device.

ACOUSTIC LEAK DETECTION

Our advanced acoustic equipment picks up the distinct sounds of water escaping from pressurized pipes. By distinguishing these sounds from normal pipe activity, we can accurately locate the water leak.

THERMAL IMAGING

Thermal imaging technology helps us detect hot water leaks by capturing heat signatures from pipes. This method is also effective for identifying moisture hidden in walls, floors, or ceilings.

MOISTURE METER

When other methods aren’t enough, moisture meters help us trace leaks by measuring dampness in specific areas. They are especially useful for detecting waterproofing failures on balconies or soffits.

How to identify leaks

Peeling Paint

Look out for paint coming off or peeling from the wall. You will most likely notice it coming loose from the skirting board first with the corners flaking or peeling. Water damage, high humidity, or leaks can cause paint to blister and peel.

Rotting Skirting Boards

Rotting skirting boards are a sign of rising damp, which is when moisture builds up in walls and causes wood to rot. Causes of rotting skirting boards; Rising damp: Prolonged exposure to excess moisture in walls can cause fungal conditions like wet rot or dry rot. Alternatively, Leaky pipes: Leaks in pipes within walls or below floorboards can cause dampness

Black Mould

If you see black mould appearing above your skirting board it is a clear sign that there is some form of dampness affecting the area, especially if you have no other evidence of black mould within the property and the black mould is localised from the skirting board to up to 1 metre above the skirting.

Tide Marks

Tide marks are a sign of rising damp in a house, which is when groundwater is absorbed into the walls and then evaporates, leaving salts behind that stain the walls. You will normally notice them anywhere up to 1 meter above the skirting board. If you do not notice tide marks, another very common sign is damp patches or staining. Typically, these damp patches are yellowish or brownish and similar to tide marks, you will notice them up to 1 meter above the skirting board.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of moisture is acceptable in walls?

The rule of thumb is that any moisture reading over 16% is considered damp and needs attention. If your reading is over 20%, you may need to replace the drywall entirely. Walls in homes with healthy humidity levels typically have a moisture reading between 12-15%.

What are the signs of a water leak?

Recognizing a water leak in your property often starts with identifying subtle changes. Maybe you’ve received an unusually steep water bill, started finding damp patches on walls, ceilings, or floors, or caught a faint, musty odor. Sometimes, you might even pick up on running water sounds when everything’s actually switched off. Staying alert is key here – this can help dodge major damages if detected early.

How long does water leak detection take?

The time for leak detection varies based on the complexity of the leak and the size of the property. However, leveraging our proficiency and gear at Damp Away, we ensure that most leaks are traced within mere hours. We’re committed to swift yet precise resolutions so as not to cause much inconvenience.

What happens after a leak is detected?

On discovery of a leak, Damp Away will hand over a comprehensive report detailing factors like the source and gravity of the leakage issue. Next, we’ll suggest an optimal course of action – be it a minor mend or major restoration work – making sure you’re kept in the loop at every juncture. Afterward, our team will use up-to-standard practices to eliminate those leaks.

Water Leak Detection