If you suspect there’s a leak in your plumbing, pipework or even your roof, it’s important to take action right away.
But what if you can’t actually find the leak? You might be able to see the signs of a leak, such as damp, mould, wet patches or perhaps even high water bills. But if you can’t pinpoint the source of the problem, you can’t get it fixed.
This frustrating problem is why leak detection experts exist. They’re like plumbing detectives, using all their skill and expertise to hunt down even the most concealed and hard-to-find leaks. But they also use technology and tools to aid them, and this is what we’ll be taking a look at here.
Read on to find out more about the equipment and techniques which make leak detection possible.
Trace and Access
All leak investigations are underpinned by a concept called ‘trace and access’. This is a systematic approach to finding leaks. It starts with an initial visual assessment, such as checking out signs of damp such as mould on a ceiling or a damp patch on a wall.
From this assessment, a plan will be drawn up – outlining the most effective way to find the leak quickly, and which methods will be employed.
Leak Detection Methods
There are many ways you can detect a hidden leak. The good news for homeowners is that they don’t usually involve pulling up floors or breaching plasterboard. Specialists use technology instead, to investigate and find leaks using non-invasive methods.
These may include:
- Moisture meters
- Salts analysis
- Borescope cameras
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Flood testing.
We’ll look at all of these in more detail next.
Moisture Meters
A moisture meter is often the first tool used to detect a leak. It gives out readings which indicate the presence of high moisture levels, even if there aren’t any visible signs of damp. It can be useful in determining whether you have an isolated problem in one specific area, or if there’s something bigger going on.
Salts Analysis
Another tool used in the leak detection process is salts analysis. This is where a tiny sample of wet material (i.e. a plaster scrapings) is chemically tested to determine whether chlorides or nitrates are present. This is very important, as it indicates where the water is coming from. Chlorides could suggest that the water originates from the mains supply, while nitrates suggest a groundwater source.
Borescope Cameras
Borescopes are small, flexible cameras which can be used to access the tightest of spaces, so that the specialist can see what’s happening inside walls and underneath floors.
It may be necessary to drill a small hole for access, but these can be easily filled.
A borescope camera helps to detect the signs of leaks inside a wall, whether it’s signs of damp or the presence of water itself.
Thermal Imaging Cameras
A thermal imaging camera can also be a vital tool in a leak detector’s arsenal. This is able to pick up small differences in temperature, which could indicate the presence of leaking hot or cold water. It’s a fully non-invasive technique, as the camera can effectively ‘see’ through walls without the need for access.
Flood Testing
As well as investigating plumbing and pipework, leak specialists will also look closely at the roof. One of the most commonly used methods is flood testing, where water is directed onto small sections of the roof methodically.
After each section, the moisture meter and thermal imaging camera can be used to test for increasing moisture levels. This can help to pinpoint the source of the leak, if the roof is found to be the problem area.
