Earlier this year, Detec Systems received two distinct FM Approvals for innovative roof leak detection solutions;
- PermaScan-C (continuously monitored moisture detection system for conventional low slope/flat roofs)
- IntegriScan (low voltage electronic leak detection scanning system)
The PermaScan-C Roof Membrane Leak Detection System consists of a control panel connected to a moisture sensing tape installed in a grid pattern within the layers of a roof deck. This solution is designed to remotely isolate breaches to a small, defined area so that the least amount of disruption is needed should a repair be necessary. Timely detection can minimize damage caused by hidden moisture.
The IntegriScan Low Voltage Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) scanning system is designed to confirm waterproofing membranes are free of breaches, holes, or seam voids and can be used to locate active leaks. As the IntegriScan Platform is moved over the roof it interacts with Detec's TruGround® Conductive Primer, which provides the required conductivity for valid ELD testing.
Both systems were tested and certified to FM Approvals Standard 7745 for Liquid Leak Detection. This examination standard tests and certified products designed to prevent and mitigate potential damages associated with both water and hydrocarbon leaks. In addition to roof leak detection systems, the scope of this standard includes spot, linear, and area detection, as well as systems that learn water usage patterns. These systems can be either wired or wireless and can take action to shut off valves automatically to further limit the damage.
There are many examples when liquid leaks, particularly through and then below roofing systems, have caused significant damage to facilities resulting in lost productivity and significant damage. Often, unless hindered by timely detection, these leaks can remain unseen and not be addressed for a significant amount of time as they are not immediately visible above or below the source of the leak.
Given the complexity of these types of products, collaboration between the FM Approvals' Building Materials and Electrical Systems teams has been crucial to the execution of these approvals. "Bringing together the expertise of the two groups really added to the value of FM Approvals," notes Phil Smith, FM Approvals' Vice President and Building Materials Manager. "End users can be confident these approved systems effectively detect leaks and will not impair the performance of the underlying roof system as all assemblies are required to meet both FM Standard 7745 and FM Standard 4470 for Roof Covers."
If your organization manufactures or is in search of roof leak detection solutions, please visit the Approval Guide and contact Phil Smith (Vice President, Manager, Building Materials) or Jim Marquedant (Vice President, Manager, Electrical Systems).