Wall Leak Investigation in Mount Eliza: An Inspection by 1300 FINDLEAK
Water damage is a homeowner's nightmare. From structural damage to potential health hazards like mould, the consequences of water ingress are vast and varied. When faced with such a situation, a detailed inspection is paramount. Today, we’re diving deep into an investigation 1300 FINDLEAK carried out in a pool house bathroom in Mount Eliza.
Location & Purpose of the Investigation
Tucked at the back of a property on the west side boundary is a pool house bathroom in Mount Eliza. Unique in its construction, half of this pool house is underground, creating a specific set of challenges when it comes to water ingress. On Sept 1, 2023, the 1300 FINDLEAK team was on a mission: to identify the cause of a persistent wall leak in this intriguing setup.
Observations & Testing Methodology
The south side of the pool house, which burrows approximately 1 meter deep, presents a retaining wall characterized by a distinct 'C' section. To facilitate the investigation, the surrounding soil was excavated, laying bare the buried section of the structure.
Water testing, a gold standard in leak detection, was employed. By deliberately introducing water 500mm on either side of the suspected problem area, the team could trace any possible ingress routes. A touch of genius was added with a green dye in the water, intended to give a visual cue if the water made its way inside.
Key Findings
The revelation was almost instant. Roughly 2 minutes post the water test initiation, ingress was visible in the identified problem zone inside the bathroom. The green dye's presence in the infiltrating water confirmed the direct relation between the tested water and the leak.
The underground nature of this section, combined with the swift appearance of water, led to a straightforward conclusion. The waterproofing system, which was the barrier against such ingress, had failed. No stone left unturned, yet no other ingress sources were discovered during this comprehensive test.
Recommendations
With the problem diagnosed, the next steps are crucial. Here's what 1300 FINDLEAK recommends:
Waterproofing Rectification: The compromised waterproofing is the root cause. A thorough analysis of the present system is essential. After the removal of the ineffective membrane, introducing a state-of-the-art waterproofing solution is vital.
Drainage Review: The underground section's drainage needs a review. Even the best waterproofing can falter if persistent water pressure challenges it. A robust drainage system ensures that this pressure is kept at bay.
Routine Maintenance and Checks: This underground section is unique and needs regular attention. By scheduling consistent inspections, potential issues can be addressed long before they escalate.
Sealing Potential Gateways: Apart from the primary waterproofing, it's vital to seal off any other possible water entry points. This could include utility inlets, conduits, or any minor openings that might be overlooked.
Conclusion
Waterproofing is a structure's silent guardian, especially for below-ground sections. In this Mount Eliza pool house, its failure has been the Achilles heel. However, with the issue identified and clear remedial actions laid out, there's a pathway to resolution. 1300 FINDLEAK's meticulous inspection not only pinpointed the problem but also paved the way for preventing future ingress, ensuring the pool house remains a sanctuary, free from the worries of water damage.
