Rooftop Waterproofing: What It Is and Why It’s Essential

The roof is a building’s first line of defense against damaging elements. In tropical Singapore, where it rains more often than not, the roof incurs significant damage over time. Therefore, it may quickly lose its ability to serve its primary function: keeping water out of the building.

In this article, we will delve into rooftop waterproofing in Singapore and why it is so essential for all buildings.

Rooftop Waterproofing in Singapore

Waterproofing prevents rainwater, which accumulates on the roof during storms, from seeping through the cracks and causing damage to the building. It also helps strengthen your home’s defenses against environmental threats such as:

• Ultraviolet (UV) rays: UV rays may cause your roof material to weaken and become increasingly brittle. Over time, cracks may appear.
• Fungal growth: Moisture from leakages causes mould and mildew to grow, which may lead to roof rot and health issues.
• Intense interior heat: Waterproofing can help prevent heat from seeping into your home’s interiors and protect your home’s structural materials from heat damage.

In Singapore, some common roof types that require waterproofing include the following:

1. Reinforced Concrete (RC) Roof

As RC roofs are flat, they are prone to accumulating puddles of water whenever it rains. They are also porous; hence, water may seep through, causing the concrete to expand and contract and leading to cracks.

2. Tiled Roof

Tiled roofs are designed to let water flow to the gutter, thus preventing water accumulation. However, they are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, such as rainstorms, that cause wear and tear. As such, these roofs may become damaged and cracked, resulting in water leakages.

3. Metal Roof

Metal roofs may corrode and rust over time, weakening the roof. Consequently, holes may appear, resulting in water seepage and damage.

Regardless of roof type, it is critical that building managers and homeowners conduct regular checks to ensure minimal damage. Identifying roof leaks and engaging in waterproofing services early on is also highly beneficial.

Protection Against Water Damages

The building may become structurally unstable when water seeps through the roof and the wall cracks. An effective waterproofing solution adds a layer of protection to the building, keeping it safe from water damage.

Protection Against Health Issues

Water leakage encourages the growth of mould and mildew, which are not just unsightly but also create health issues for the building’s occupants. For example, spores from mould and fungi trigger respiratory problems like asthma.

Moreover, water leakages may create pockets of stagnant water around your home. This may encourage the breeding of mosquitoes, increasing the risk of dengue fever.

Longevity

Adding a layer of waterproofing can provide your roof with extra protection against weather conditions and UV rays, thus increasing its lifespan.

Cost Effectiveness 

Usually, action is only taken after a leakage has been detected. However, this is undesirable: a building with extensive water damage requires costly reparations. You may even have to install a new roof.

We recommend you take the initiative and ensure your roof is secure by waterproofing it. After all, prevention is always better than cure.

Conclusion

Rooftop waterproofing is a critical component of the roof because it helps keep the water out of the building and provides greater insulation. As common roof types in Singapore are prone to water accumulation and leakage, it is always best to consult a waterproofing contractor for preventive maintenance and care.

If you’re looking for roof leakage waterproofing services, check us out at OCL Building Services. As a general contractor in Singapore, we provide a range of building services, including pressure grouting concrete repair and swimming pool maintenance.