Wall leakage repair for HDB Flat
Wall leaks from the exterior wall are usually only noticed after substantial damage has occurred. Water can penetrate through external wall defects like joints, honeycombs, spilling, weak points, holes, punctures, and leftovers of debris and movement of external wall components.
Water seepage can occur when rainwater or moisture penetrates into the walls through the crack lines, holes, and gaps can lead to water leakage. Seepage of water through walls and water flowing from one place to another because of the presence of small holes due to any breakage or porous materials. Seepage in walls is one of the most common structural issues faced by most HDB homeowners in Singapore.
Water leakage in HDB flats can be common, especially in those over 20 years old flats. Cracks along the joint between or in the block wall and reinforced cement elements could be one of the areas that will cause wall leakage. During the expansion and contraction with temperature changes, over time this will result in cracks along the joints. As time goes on, hairline cracks will develop into wider cracks. Penetration in the walls includes cable wires or pipes that pierce the walls from the outside. Water will definitely find a way into your home if there are any flaws in the structure. Water damage is a serious issue for homeowners and can cause great damage.
As the external walls of the concrete structure are highly exposed to the weather, prolonged contact with the rainwater can lead to cracks in the outer covering, giving way to water and moisture seepage in the wall. This seepage in the wall makes the wall damp and it is not treated in time, this dampness seeps into the interior, running the wall paint. That is where you will see pockets of bubbled paint bulging out from your wall.
Exterior wall cracks can be the source of water leakage. Cracks in the surface of the wall could be detrimental depending on how deep the crack line goes. Heavy rains and harsh weather can cause cracks to form.
Wind-blown rain is a significant cause of leaks in the wall. This type of moisture infiltration can easily take place through the vertical joints between the brick, or head joints. The pressure of the wind pushes the water inside the wall with force.
Aside from all of the rain, humidity is another way for moisture to seep through any flaw in your exterior finish. It is beneficial to do a routine inspection to ensure none of the walls are compromised. It is crucial to avoid water damage because once it makes its way into your home it can lead to things like mildew and mould.
Mould allergies can quickly build up without notice, especially when there is an exterior leak and moisture continually builds up with your walls. If mould grows and exists unknowingly will put your and your family member’s health at risk, such as eye and skin irritation, throat and lung infection, and breathing issues like asthmatic.
If your found wall leakage and cracks are found outside your flat, you should contact your Town Council to investigate the issue and carry out the necessary repair works.
The external walls of HDB blocks are common property under Town Councils’ management and maintenance. As they are subject to wear and tear over time, Town Councils are advised to keep them in good condition by carrying out regular maintenance and repairs when needed.
Residents who encounter water seepage through their walls typically report such cases to their Town Council. As the common property, the Town Council is responsible for addressing the leak. Where necessary, HDB can provide technical advice to the Town Council on the root cause of the leak, and on the appropriate repair methods. The Ministry of National Development has written an answer on water seepage from the external walls of HDB flats on February 2020, to approach the respective Town Council to resolve the seepage issue.
If you notice that some areas in the house start to have wall leakage from the external wall, repair it as soon as possible as it will lessen the damage to the house. It will be terribly complicated when the leak becomes worst which causes damage to the building structure. Perhaps these leakages will decrease the value of the house as well.
Despite working out with your Town Council to investigate the leak and work on the repair for the exterior, the homeowner could also waterproof and stop the leak within your unit.
A proper waterproofing solution safeguards the home from water leakage and dampness. There are various ways of waterproofing the wall.
Minister of State for National Development, Muhammad Faisal Ibrahim, revealed in February 2021 that HDB had identified two new technologies to improve the current method for repairing leakage – nanotechnology waterproofing and overlaying waterproofing membrane system. This method provides an alternative option for owners who do not wish to hack their existing toilet tiles or due to their excessive mess and dirt caused during the hacking and replacement of tiles. These two new leak repair methods are effective and less destructive options for residents and family members, which can be completed in a day versus traditional hacking.
If you encounter water seepage or leakage problem, you should engage a waterproofing specialist. SWC Construction will recommend an effective waterproofing solution for homeowners. We provide the best solution without hacking to resolve the water leak issue.
As one of the waterproofing specialists in Singapore, we strive for the best service and high-quality, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective waterproofing solutions. Our team of professional technicians is well-trained to achieve excellent customer experience.
Our valuable customers have progressively given us feedback and reviews of our work on their home repair, which are important qualities for us to strengthen potential customer confidence levels.
Call us now, for a free consultation, we have a team of professional, experienced, and well-trained workers.
SWC Construction is registered by BCA (Building and Construction Authority under CR13 (waterproofing and installation). We are also a proudly bizSAFE level 3 certified company. We are reputable, certified, and experienced to manage waterproofing issues. With more than 20 years of experience in the waterproofing field, we have skillful, well-trained workers and a professional team to perform highly professional waterproofing systems, installation, and solutions.