Roof & Planter Boxes

Yes — flat roof and low-pitch roof waterproofing is a core external service, using torch-on bituminous systems, TPO, or liquid-applied membranes depending on the roof type and usage.

We carry out roof membrane replacement, roof leak diagnosis, and new flat roof waterproofing on residential and commercial properties across Melbourne. System selection depends on the roof substrate (concrete slab, timber deck, metal), the level of foot traffic expected, and UV exposure. For concrete flat roofs, torch-on bituminous systems (SBS modified bitumen) or liquid polyurethane systems are typically appropriate. For timber substrates, TPO or EPDM sheet systems are preferred. We also carry out waterproofing and flashing renewal around all roof penetrations — skylights, pipes, HVAC bases — which are among the most common sources of roof leaks.

We use two-part polyurethane and cementitious liquid membranes for internal wet areas, and sheet membranes (TPO, EPDM, reinforced polyurethane) for external applications, selecting the product for the specific application.

Product selection is driven by the application, substrate type, exposure conditions, and expected movement — not by margin. For internal wet areas (showers, bathrooms, laundries), we primarily use two-part polyurethane or cementitious-modified liquid membranes from suppliers including Ardex (W Series) and Mapei (Mapelastic range). For external applications (balconies, flat roofs, planter boxes), we use sheet membranes — TPO, EPDM, or reinforced polyurethane — where UV resistance and consistent thickness are priorities, or torch-on bituminous systems for flat roof applications where specified. All products used carry current Australian technical data sheets and are sourced from Parchem, Ardex, Mapei, or Sika depending on the application.

Quality waterproofing membranes installed correctly to AS 3740-2021 typically last 10–25 years, depending on the product type, UV exposure, substrate movement, and maintenance.

The service life of a waterproofing membrane depends on several factors: the membrane type (sheet membranes in external applications typically outlast liquid-applied systems in high-UV exposure), the quality of the original installation, the extent of substrate movement over time, and whether maintenance items like sealant joints have been renewed at appropriate intervals. Residential shower waterproofing typically lasts 10–15 years before remediation is warranted. Balcony membranes in direct sun may require inspection after 10 years. The key factor is correct installation — a high-quality product applied over a poorly prepared substrate, or with inadequate detailing at junctions, will fail prematurely regardless of its rated life.

Water coming through an internal wall after rain indicates an external waterproofing or flashing failure — do not seal internally, protect against further damage, document with photos, and arrange an inspection.

Water appearing on an internal wall during or after heavy rain is always an external failure — water is getting in through the building envelope. Common sources include: failed or absent flashing at window heads and sills; cracked or missing external render; failed sealant at external junctions; gutter overflow or blockage; balcony or roof drainage failure directing water against the wall; and in older Melbourne brick homes, through-wall moisture penetration where the external render or paint has broken down. Do not attempt to seal the internal face with waterproof paint or filler — this traps moisture in the wall and typically worsens the damage. The entry point and the visible wet patch are rarely the same location — water tracks along structural elements.