Waterproofing failures are often caused by poor installation, damaged membranes, weak detailing or improper site coordination rather than the waterproofing material itself. At QingLong Waterproofing Malaysia, these are five common causes of water leakage:
1. Poor Joint Sealing
Wall-to-floor joints, construction joints and cold joints are common leakage points if they are not properly sealed.
Solution: Use suitable waterstops, sealants and reinforcement materials, and inspect all joints before they are covered.
2. Damage During Backfilling
Large stones, construction debris or improper backfilling can puncture or damage waterproofing membranes.
Solution: Use suitable backfill materials and protect the membrane with appropriate protection layers before backfilling.
3. Improper Membrane Termination
Poorly sealed membrane edges can allow water and debris to enter behind the waterproofing layer.
Solution: Secure and seal membrane terminations properly using compatible accessories and sealants.
4. Poor Detailing Around Penetrations
Pipes, drains, corners, joints and service penetrations are common weak points where leaks can develop.
Solution: Reinforce and seal these areas carefully. For leaking concrete cracks and joints, PU injection waterproofing may be used where suitable.
5. Lack of Site Coordination
Waterproofing can be damaged by other trades during drilling, pipe installation, backfilling or construction work.
Solution: Coordinate waterproofing works with all contractors and inspect completed waterproofing before it is covered.
How Are Existing Leaks Repaired?
The source of the leakage should be identified before repair work begins.
Where possible, waterproofing should be repaired from the positive side, where water enters the structure. If external access is not possible, negative-side waterproofing or PU injection may be considered.
With more than 30 years of industry experience, QingLong Waterproofing Malaysia provides waterproofing materials and solutions for roofs, walls, toilets, basements, foundations and concrete structures.
