Electronic Leak Detection Frequently Asked Questions

Our Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) service is the most time-efficient and cost-effective method for non-destructive testing of roofing/waterproofing membranes on low-slope roofs. Using the principles of electricity and opposing electric charges, our technicians can pinpoint the exact location of breaches. Depending on the roof conditions, ELD uses either no water or a light film of water. Often, we can test an area and repair breaches on the same day, eliminating the waiting period required by flood tests.

Our Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) system uses the principles of electricity and opposing electric charges. We employ either High Voltage (HVELD) or Low Voltage (LVELD) methods to create a positive charge on the membrane's surface. Simultaneously, we connect to the conductive structural deck below. The membrane acts as an insulator, keeping the charges apart. If there's a breach, the charges meet, grounding the equipment and alerting our technician. The technician then pinpoints the breach location, marks it, and notifies the roofing contractor for immediate repair.

ELD can be used at almost any point during the life of a roof. Likewise, leaks can occur at any point during the life of a roof. The most common time for ELD to be utilized is immediately after roof construction is completed. This ensures that the assembly is watertight before the installation of overburden and/or building turnover. However, it can also be used in the weeks, months, and years after completion, as a response to active leaks or potential damage caused by new construction activities on the roof. As the cost of materials and labor have increased in recent years, ELD has also been used as a maintenance tool in an effort to prolong the life of the roof.

Our Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) is more time and cost-efficient than other testing methods. There is usually no waiting period between identifying a breach and making repairs. Unlike flood tests, our ELD technicians can test an area in hours, not days, eliminating the need for building dams and associated costs. In the construction industry, staying on schedule is crucial, and ELD helps you stay ahead or get back on track.

ELD is ineffective on conductive membranes, such as Black EPDM (which contains conductive carbon black) and metal/metallic roof coatings. Urethane-based and ultra-thin waterproofing membranes are evaluated individually. Contact us to determine if we can test a specific membrane. For non-conductive substrates or roof decks (e.g., wood decks) or if a vapor barrier is present, a conductive mesh layer must be installed within the assembly. Visit our “conductive mesh testing” page for details.

Once testing is complete, a detailed report of our findings is generated and submitted. This report includes general project information, noted site conditions (with photographs), breach photographs and measured locations. A digital drawing is also submitted with the report that highlights the area(s) tested, with all breach locations plotted

Due to the large number of factors that affect our ability to carry out testing, it is not possible to provide a fixed cost without first discussing your inquiry. We can provide you with free advice and make recommendations as to the approach best suited to your particular project. Usually, ELD is more affordable than you think and can provide valuable savings in other areas related to construction and/or building maintenance. Contact us for a no obligation quote.