Electronic Leak Detection (ELD)
Low-voltage current applied across waterproofing membranes to detect breaches. Electrical resistance paths reveal pinholes and defects in flat roofs and waterproofing.
How Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) Works
Electronic leak detection is the most reliable method for locating breaches in flat roof membranes and below-grade waterproofing systems. A low-voltage DC current (typically 30-40 volts at micro-amp levels) is applied across the membrane using a conductive medium on the surface (water, conductive foam roller, or brush). The current flows through any breach in the membrane to the conductive substrate below, completing a circuit that the detection instrument identifies. The technician follows the current path to its source — the exact breach location. ELD can detect pinholes as small as 1 mm that would be invisible during visual inspection. This method is essential for quality assurance on new membrane installations and for troubleshooting chronic leaks in existing systems.
Applications in BC
- Flat roof membrane leak detection on commercial buildings
- Green roof waterproofing integrity testing
- Below-grade waterproofing membrane testing
- Quality assurance after new membrane installation
- Podium deck and plaza waterproofing verification
Advantages
- Detects pinhole leaks invisible to visual inspection
- Tests 100% of membrane surface area
- Works on EPDM, TPO, PVC, and liquid-applied
- Documented results for warranty compliance
- Can test through green roof growing medium
Limitations
- Requires dry membrane for traditional testing
- Conductive substrate required
- Not suitable for sloped or steep roofs
- Weather-dependent for outdoor testing
Equipment Used
- • Detec PRO leak detection system
- • RoofCheck ELD system
- • Proceq Profometer ELD
- • Michel Instruments ELD system
- • Hydrotect leak detection unit
Related Services
Professional Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) in BC
LeakInspections.ca — a division of Anyleak.ca and Leak.ca. Call 604-239-9934.