Remedial waterproofing is the repair of waterproofing that has failed or was never done properly. It is different from new waterproofing: the building is already finished, the water has already caused damage, and the source of the leak is often not where the water appears.
Why leaks are hard to find
Water travels. A stain on a ceiling may come from a balcony two metres away, a failed shower in the unit above, a cracked roof flashing or a facade defect. Fixing the wrong spot is one of the most common reasons waterproofing repairs fail.
How leaks are traced
- Inspection of the likely sources above and around the damage.
- Moisture readings to map wet areas.
- Flood testing of balconies, showers and planters, one area at a time.
- Opening up where needed to see the membrane and junctions.
Common remedial waterproofing jobs
- Balconies: re-membraning, falls, upturns and drainage.
- Roofs and gutters: membranes, flashings and box gutters.
- Basements and planter boxes: negative-side systems, injection and drainage.
- Bathrooms and wet areas: failed shower membranes leaking into walls and units below.
- Facades and windows: sealants, flashings and render.
Fix the damage too
Leaks rarely do damage only to finishes. They cause concrete spalling, timber decay and mould. A proper remedial waterproofing job repairs the waterproofing and the damage it caused.
Choosing a waterproofing repair contractor
- Licensed for the work, and DBP registered for apartment buildings.
- Investigates the source before quoting a fix.
- Specifies the membrane system and details.
- Photographs the membrane before it is covered.
- Explains statutory and product warranties.
Remedial waterproofing in Sydney
See our remedial waterproofing service.
Frequently asked questions
What is remedial waterproofing?
The repair of waterproofing that has failed or was not done properly, including tracing the leak, replacing membranes and repairing the damage caused.
How do you find where a leak is coming from?
By inspecting likely sources, taking moisture readings, flood testing areas one at a time and opening up where needed.
Can waterproofing be fixed without demolition?
Some leaks can be fixed with sealants or injection, but failed membranes under tiles usually need the finishes removed.
