How to Check if Your Waterproofing is Working

Waterproofing protects your home from leaks, dampness, and costly damage—but it doesn’t last forever. Regular checks are essential to catch early signs of failure before the problem escalates. Here’s a simple guide on how to assess the condition of your waterproofing.

1. Visual Inspection for Warning Signs

Start with a thorough visual check around walls, ceilings, and wet areas. Look out for:

• Water stains – brown or yellow marks often show water intrusion.

• Mould or mildew – black spots or patches on grout, tiles, or walls.

• Bubbling or peeling paint – caused by trapped moisture behind paint layers.

• Musty odours – a persistent damp smell can indicate hidden leaks.

• Soft or spongy flooring – a sign of water pooling underneath.

• Damaged grout or cracks – pathways for water to seep through.

2. Perform a Flood Test

For a more reliable check, conduct a flood test in areas like bathrooms or balconies:

1. Block the drain so water stays contained.

2. Fill the area with water up to a set level.

3. Wait at least 24 hours and monitor for leaks or a drop in water level.

4. Inspect the membrane after draining—look for blistering or soft spots.

This process helps confirm if the waterproofing layer is intact.

3. Call in the Professionals

If leaks are hard to trace, specialists have tools that can pinpoint hidden moisture:

• Moisture meters to measure dampness inside materials.

• Infrared cameras to detect water behind walls or beneath floors.

• Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) to test the integrity of the waterproofing membrane.