A leaking roof could have huge financial implications both in replacement and liability costs. We can help you reduce that risk.

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Roof leaks can cause financial devastation if not expected. Our roof inspection services can reduce your risks by evaluating the roof before you decide whether to repair or replace. Many leaks can be difficult to find and can leak for extended periods without showing symptoms indoors. In some cases patching the suspected area may be sufficient. However, it has been our experience that in many cases, the sources of the leaks can be difficult to find using conventional visual roof surveys. The same 90%/1% principle that is applied to both above and below grade waterproofing should also be applied to roof covers. Many roof leaks could be avoided through better quality control. This is why overlooking commissioning of the building envelope as part of your overall commissioning process could be a costly mistake.

 Principle One: The 90%/1% Principle - As much as 90% of all water intrusion problems occur within 1% of the total building or structure exterior surface area.

Principle Two: The 99% Principle - Approximately 99% of waterproofing leaks are attributable to causes other than material or system failures.

By using infrared thermography to spot thermal anomalies in the roof, many leaks can be tracked, verified and repaired. The areas are marked with semi-permanent markings and we return during daylight hours for a more in-depth evaluation of areas that are suspect. This in-depth analysis includes taking core samples to verify composition and moisture content of the roof. The roof composition, moisture content and location is the marked on a roof plan. After completing the project, we will have the total sq. ft of wet insulation as compared to total roof area so that it can be decided if repair or replacement is more cost effective.  

Infrared Thermography Surveys

Infrared roof scans and surveys are all performed following ASTM guidelines for locating wet roof insulation. Surveys are performed to one of three degrees of detail:

1. Roof Survey with verbal report
2. Roof Survey with limited report
3. Roof Survey with detailed report

 The detail of the report required for each project will vary dependant upon your particular requirements. Whichever type of survey that is chosen, we will perform all surveys to meet ASTM Standards.

Some Infrared Considerations

In order to provide the most accurate survey possible we try to schedule all infrared surveys when conditions are optimal. This is usually 2-3 hours after sunset. The conditions present at the time of the survey and the 24-48 hr. period leading up to the survey can all affect the accuracy of the survey and equipment. In order to expedite the survey, please have a scaled plan of the roof being surveyed for the technician as well as pertinent information about the building (e.g. size, current and past uses, leak history, etc.) if available.

Consider contracting with a company that is experienced with roofing materials and applications to perform your infrared survey. This will assure that your receive an accurate analysis of the membrane, flashing, insulation, etc.

Surface Scan

In addition to using infrared thermography during our roof surveys, C.L.I. Group uses the Tramex Dec Scanner for an additional measure of accuracy. This allows for verification of thermal anomalies discovered during the thermal scan. The Dec Scanner can also be used for a time and cost effective, stand-alone evaluation of roof decks.

A Typical Roof Survey

The purpose of the test is to determine whether the insulation is wet or dry. If wet, the source of the leak may be easily located and repairs made.

To measure for moisture presence in a roof, you decide how much of the surface you want to inspect. Normally you'll survey at intervals of 5 to 10 feet, which should locate all problem areas. By inspecting the roof in a continuous pattern, and marking a corresponding survey sheet, moisture readouts can be permanently documented.

1. Mark off the roof perimeter in regular increments.
2. Test the Dec Scanner battery condition by turning the unit on.
3. Calibrate for battery condition and the dielectric constant of the roof. (Done in approximately 15 seconds using two knobs on the machine.)
4. Proceed with the test by rolling the Dec Scanner across the roof and watching its meter and/or listening to the audio tone from its built-in speaker.
5. Problem areas can be marked on a survey sheet and/or spray painted directly on the roof.
6. If moisture is the result of condensation from within, a decision can be made whether to install vents before blistering or splitting results.

Roof Surveys Include

*Note: Not all roof types are ideal candidates for thermal roof survey.