Credits: Roofinghub

Singapore is home to stunning houses that boast functional design and bespoke construction. Those lucky enough to own such a home will attest to their splendour; their sheer brilliance conveys a great deal about the touch of class that is the benchmark of the architectural virtuosity in this island city-state.

When maintaining your landed property and keeping it in pristine condition, you will want to take environmental conditions into account. Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate, high humidity and abundant rainfall all year round, with a wetter monsoon season from November to January. Preventing leaks is of paramount importance. Let’s take a look at how you can prevent leaks from occurring. We will also offer some tips on what to look out for to stop a minor issue becoming a much more major problem.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing keeps leaks at bay. A good, sturdy coat of waterproofing can increase the longevity of your roof by a great deal. Here is how to go about waterproofing your roof:

1. Check the material your roof is made from. 

Concrete roofs are inherently waterproof, and only fractures in the structure will require further strengthening. As opposed to proofing the entire roof, you can save time and money by only fortifying the weak points. Waterproofing materials range from the cumbersome liquid and rubberised asphalt membranes to the eco-friendly sodium bentonite, and the conspicuous EIFS (exterior insulation and finish system).

2. Hire a waterproofing contractor. 

A professional contractor will ensure the job is done in accordance with the set standards for waterproofing. Opting to do it yourself will save you hiring a contractor, but you will be vulnerable to making mistakes that a professional would otherwise guard against. You could even end up causing more damage. A waterproofing contractor will spot things you might miss and complete the job safely and effectively.

The Importance of Waterproofing

There is no way of avoiding the elements. Fortify your roof and replace it when repairs do more harm than good. Waterproofing is suitable for both repairs and new installations. Here is why:

1. Waterproofing curbs rusting of metal roofs. 

If your roof is made from metal roof tiles or metal plated shingles, then it is in your best interests that you urgently apply a water-resistant coat. Exposure to the unforgiving radiance and rain for too long is bound to cause discolouration of your beautiful roof as the metal will take on a hideous shade of copper rust. And when that is not enough to warrant waterproofing, the acidity in the rain corrodes the metal shingles, causing them to break down and leak.

2. Waterproofing averts erosion of concrete roofs. 

While concrete is immune to rust, it is still susceptible to the wear and tear of the elements. Even a concrete roof can only withstand the intensity of the sun and the hostility of the monsoon season for so long; eventually it will dissolve or succumb to the scars of erosion without the appropriate waterproofing treatment.

Spotting roof leaks

Look out for indications of a leaking roof:

• When it rains the floor seems to get conspicuously wet.
• Discolouration of the ceiling or peeling plaster.
• Weakened and warped ceilings.
• A sagging ceiling.
• Mould and stains on the ceilings or walls

Leaks can be a sign of sub-standard roofing that has resulted in an accumulation of water in the ceiling, or can be a consequence of cracks and crevices in the roof. They should be addressed as soon as possible to protect your property from further damage. With advice from a professional, you should be able to find the right solution to remedy the problem.