Nowadays, most of the multi-storey buildings in Singapore have tiled balconies. In most cases, the tiled balconies are being constructed directly above the areas such as bedrooms, dining areas or even lounge areas. Since most of the balconies are usually exposed to extreme weather conditions, the possibility of the occurrence of a balcony leakage is high.
If there is a balcony leakage, proper repair works must be carried out. However, what are the signs to look out for to determine balcony leakage?
Cracked or missing grout around the tiles is one of the clearest indications of balcony leakage. Besides, if there are any loose tiles or the tiles which produce hollow noises, it is also an indication of balcony leakage as the tiles are no longer tight and water penetration may be occurred. Furthermore, when you have noticed that there are some yellowish staining or dampness on the interior and exterior balcony finishes, be aware that there might be balcony leakage. Last but not least, peeling or splitting of paintworks is also an indication that your balcony is leaking and repair works must be done.
In order to fix the balcony leakage, most contractors would remove the old tiles of the balcony by hacking (which creates loud noises and dirt), followed by waterproofing membrane application and then finally installing a new set of tiles. However, at SWC Construction, we fix the balcony leakage by providing a non-hacking and long-lasting solution, which is High Pressure Polyurethane (PU) Injection Grouting. This method is an injection of liquid grouting material into the structure under pressure. During the process of grouting, fissures (an opening or line of breakage made by cracking or splitting in structures) and pores are filled with the grouting material, which subsequently hardens and connects the disintegrated surfaces. PU injection grouting can help to fill the cracks fully as once the injection is administered, the foam expands to fill in the entire space of each crack. This fullness gives full coverage and protection from any water seepage. Another advantage of PU injection grouting is that the process is fast (save up to 3 times the duration of work) as the atmosphere’s moisture content does not matter. The foam can be injected into wet areas, which means you do not have to wait till the leakage area is completely dry before taking action against further water damage.
Apart from that, Clear Penetrative Treatment (CPT) is also another solution for fixing leakage of balcony tiles. At SWC Construction, we use a transparent, penetrative waterproofing chemical solution that is specially made for a non-invasive, no drilling and effective approach to waterproof and ensure water tightness of substrates. The chemicals can penetrate and react with the substrates to create a waterproofed layer and prevent water ingress.