Roof Condition Surveys | Thornton Consulting

Established in 1986

Pioneers of electronic leak detection in the UK

Over 35,000 successful tests

Excellent Client Reviews

Analysing the performance and condition of your roof

The purpose of our Roof Condition Survey is to give you an indication of the current performance, condition and expected lifespan of an existing roof.

Our Flat Roof Condition Surveys give you a clear indication of key risk areas, helping you spot problems early and prevent internal leaks.

You’ll receive a detailed report with clear findings, photos and practical recommendations to help budget for maintenance or replacement.

How We Test

Roof Inspection Surveys can be integrated with other test procedures aimed at establishing the integrity of the waterproofing layer, determining build-up and condition of the elements below, such as insulation. We use a number of test techniques to produce our surveys:

Electronic Leak Detection

The process involves electronic leak detection of the waterproof covering and is typically undertaken by one of two methods, depending on the roof build-up and waterproofing to be tested. Both test methods rely on the electrically conductive properties of the substrate and insulating properties of the waterproofing for accurate detection of breaches and is suitable for most types of membranes. The test can be undertaken to both horizontal and vertical waterproofing, ensuring the entire roof is tested.

Infra-Red Thermography

This is a very useful diagnostic method to find hidden water and moisture issues without resorting to destructive testing.

It can establish breaks in the insulation in buildings and where leaks occur then trace them. As it is a non-contact process it is particularly useful for locating heat loss/gain or moisture problems within the building envelope.

Our site personnel conducting Infra-red Surveys are trained to ITC Category 1 Thermography, or higher.

Moisture Profiles

This process uses an electrical capacitance technique, whereby electric discharge is reflected back by moisture, thus allowing high levels of moisture to be detected below the waterproofing membrane without disturbing it.

By measuring relative moisture content across structures such as roofs, a moisture profile can be developed that often points towards the leak source.​

Moisture profiling can also identify damage to insulation and provides guidelines as to whether the roof should be replaced.

This is typically combined with core samples of the roof which provide important information on the roof construction and allow accurate calibration of the test equipment.

Technical Audit

We can audit structural items which are considered a potential source of water ingress into the structure so that a comprehensive programme of remedial repairs can be produced.

Roof condition surveys are a useful tool for facilities management teams, landlords, developers, contractors or anyone undertaking building refurbishments or maintenance to buildings with flat roofs.

It is also beneficial as part of a regular roof maintenance program and can be incorporated with our roof leak detection service to remain pro-active in preventing roof leaks.

With more than 40 years of roofing consultancy experience, our team of specialist consultants are able to undertake surveys on a variety of buildings from large commercial facilities and office blocks to car parks and residential buildings, such as apartment blocks.

Roof Condition Surveys FAQs

1. What is the benefit of a roof condition survey?
  • Establish the current condition and performance of an existing roof
  • Identify defects in the waterproofing system and other elements of the structure before leaks occur
  • Plan maintenance and capital expenditures
  • Minimise the likelihood leaks
2. What types of roofs can be surveyed?
  • Flat and low-slope roofs
  • Single ply membranes
  • Built-up felt systems
  • Asphalt roofs, car parks and loading bays
  • Green, brown & blue roofs
3. Is a roof condition survey non-destructive?

Yes, depending on the scope of the survey. Typical test methods used are:

  • Electronic leak detection
  • Roof moisture profile
  • Infra-red thermography
4. Will the survey be disruptive.

No. A roof condition survey is unlikely to be disruptive to occupants as test are typically non-invasive and quiet.

Client Testimonials

I’ve worked with Thornton’s team for nigh on 10 years and I’m yet to be disappointed by any aspect of their business or interaction with any of their staff. I feel that the collaborative approach we have when working together not only benefits our site in a speedy response and solution, but it also strengthens our relationship with our onsite client team, building in faith that together we can self-solve most, if not all issues. Working with Wendy and the onsite teams is nothing short of a pleasure. I would highly recommend using Thornton Consulting Group for all investigative services when it comes to finding leak issues.

OCS Group (Bluewater)

Your team have successfully found the cause of the water ingress. I also wanted to write to express how impressed we are with the professionalism of both Sam and Dave and there health and safety whilst on site. I will be recommending Thornton Consulting going forward to the Hospital and will certainly use this service in the future with Carillion. Many thanks, and also for attending at such short notice.

Carillion Plc

We have worked with Thornton’s for several years now and we could not be happier with the service. The team are really helpful, accommodating and always happy to help us out if we are under pressure from a client. The team are always happy to take a call to discuss a project with them to get a clear understanding of the issues found on site. Thorntons always find the issues and provide a very thorough report to outline them with recommendations on repairs required.

Foxleys Fabrick & Building Maintenance

Thank you for your assistance with the DLI. The contractors used were fantastic and I would definitely recommend using them in the future.

Smart Property Development

Thornton Consulting are extremely professional, reliable and carry out a fantastic service with excellent communication throughout – we would recommend using them and we certainly will be using them again.

Rendall & Rittner

Just wanted to take a moment to commend your team for the works carried out on site. We are really pleased with the results.

TS, M

Thanks for the work carried out and the subsequent report. Sam and Dave were 1st class.

Complete Building Services Ltd

Roof Condition Blog & Case Studies

To find out more about Electronic Leak Detection and how we use it in our work read our case studies and blogs below.

Get in Touch Today

Call us on 01342 410508, email us at mail@thorntonconsulting.co.uk or send us a message using the form below. A friendly member of our team will be in touch shortly.

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