Detect facade leaks with our team. We at Ultrices Leak Detection show where water is entering and document it in a clear report for repairs and insurance purposes.
Using thermography, moisture measurement, endoscopy, a smoke test, and a dye test, we detect facade leaks in masonry and brickwork, cracked joints, sealant joints at window frames, cavity walls, lead flashing, window sills, and rainwater drainage.
If you see rings near the window frame or sill, we show the source and the solution. We have a 5 out of 5 Google review score, read our results in detecting facade leaks.
Table of contents
Detecting facade leaks clearly explained
Detecting facade leaks means specifically identifying where rainwater or condensation penetrates the building envelope and why this happens. With facade penetration, water seeps into the cavity through porous masonry or hollowed-out jointing. With rain penetration, water enters through gaps around window frames or defective water barriers. Cavity wall leakage occurs when moisture remains in the cavity or drains inwards through thermal bridges or faulty expansion joints. At Ultrices Leak Detection, we combine building physics with measurement data so you quickly know what is going on and what the solution is. We work nationwide for private and business clients with 15 years of experience and an expert report within three days. Without demolition work, with a 99 percent success rate and no-cure, no-pay policy.
Causes of facade leakage and recognizable signs
- Porous masonry and aged jointing: water penetrates the peel during heavy rain, resulting in discoloration and wet spots
- Poor connections around window frames: Failing sealant joints or water sills according to NEN EN 1027 lead to water ingress under wind pressure
- Defects in cavity and water barriers: sagging or missing lead flashing and clogged open weep holes cause cavity water to penetrate inwards
- Structural cracks and expansion joints: cracking at lintels and balcony supports causes capillary water transport
- Internal sources: condensation caused by thermal bridges or a leaking rainwater drain in the cavity looks like a facade leak but has a different source
Our method for detecting facade leaks without breaking.
- Intake and context: we discuss complaint patterns and KNMI weather situations during damage, such as wind direction and heavy rain
- Structural inspection: we check pointing, window frame joints, lead flashing, expansion joints, roof edges, and balcony supports
- Instrumental measurements: we combine thermography, endoscopy, moisture measurements, and data logging for objective data
- Targeted simulationWe perform a water test and smoke test according to the principles of NEN EN 1027 and NEN EN 12155 to physically reproduce the leak.
- Analysis and report: you receive a clear expert report with photos, infrared images, measurement tables, and repair advice tailored to insurers
Leak detection process request
Techniques and equipment we use
- Thermography and infrared facade scan: with FLIR cameras, we visualize cold plans and moisture trails so you can see where water or air leaks are located
- Endoscopy in the cavity: through a small inspection opening, we check water barriers, open weep holes, anchors, and contamination such as mortar protrusions.
- Water test and smoke testWe test connection details such as frames and expansion joints with controlled water loading and airflow for repeatable results.
- Moisture and salt measurements: using capacitive and resistance sensors, we determine moisture percentages and hygroscopic salts to distinguish between condensation penetration and a pipe leak
- Ultrasonic and dye tracersWe follow leak paths along gap seals and sealant joints and link this to building physics models from TNO and TU Delft.
Types of facades and risk zones in case of leakage
- Traditional cavity masonry: attention to open weep holes, water barriers at window frames and penetrations, plus correct drainage of the cavity
- Facade frames and facade elements: inspection of rubber seals, sealant joints, stop profiles, and water deflectors in accordance with the performance requirements of NEN EN 1027
- Ventilated facades: risk of water blowing in during strong winds and insufficient rear ventilation or leaky bottoms
- Balcony and roof edge connections: transition details subjected to high loads from wind and water where cracking quickly leads to leakage
From diagnosis to recovery advice and insurance
With Ultrices leak detection, you get no guesswork, but a substantiated diagnosis that leads to smart repairs. We link measurement data to repair options such as hydrophobic impregnation with vapor-permeable systems, repairing sealant joints and lead flashing, or clearing open expansion joints, including advice on preventing future rain penetration. Our report aligns with policy conditions, and we work with insurers to ensure your claim runs smoothly, with guaranteed coverage where applicable. Thanks to VCA VOL and NEN 3140, we work safely and professionally, boasting a 5 out of 5 Google star rating and being one hundred percent risk-free. Call or WhatsApp 085 2505 217 or email info@Ultriceslekdetectie.nl for quick assistance; our emergency service will be on-site within an hour when it really matters.
Why choose Ultrices leak detection
- Without hacking or breakingNon-destructive measurements limit nuisance and save repair costs.
- Fast turnaround time: expert report within three days and free quote within 24 hours
- Top-of-the-line equipment and expertise: FLIR thermography, endoscopy, and water tests applied with building physics substantiation
- No cure, no pay: no solution, no payment with a 99 percent success rate on location
If you want to see practical tips and live images immediately during thermography and an infrared facade scan, check out our page. Thermography for facade leakage or read how we locate leaks with maximum precision at Leak detection on the facadeRequest your free price indication at the same time via Free facade inspection quote within 24 hours and schedule your research.
Practical example
An apartment in Rotterdam had recurring mold spots around the window frame on the west facade. Thermography revealed cold streaks at the reveal. Using a wind-pressure water test, we simulated driving rain and observed inflow through a broken damp-proof course. Endoscopy in the cavity showed a sagging lead flashing and clogged weep holes. The recommendation was to repair the lead flashing, clear the cavity drainage, and renew the sealant joints. After execution, the interior walls remained dry, even during heavy downpours.
This is how you work with us
- Schedule an intake: you share complaints, photos, and address, after which we offer a time slot within an hour
- On-site executionWe perform measurements and simulations and capture everything in images and measurement data.
- Report and advice: you receive a clear report with recovery scenarios and priorities
- Coordination with insurer: we provide additional supporting documents where necessary for smooth processing
- Aftercare and warranty: after repair, we check whether the facade performs as watertight again
Frequently asked questions
How to locate a facade leak quickly and without demolition
We start with a structural check of jointing, expansion joints, lead flashing, window frame connections, sealant joints, roof edges, and water barriers. Next, we use thermography, moisture measurements, endoscopy in the cavity, a smoke test, and where necessary, a controlled spray test. This way, you find the source of penetrating damp or infiltration without any demolition or breaking, with a 99 percent success rate.
A real-world example: a damp interior wall under a window sill turned out to be caused by a torn lead flashing and open weep holes. With IR imaging and endoscopy, the situation was clear within an hour. If you want to see how this works non-destructively, take a look. our method for facade leak detection without demolition. In case of emergency, we are available 24 hours a day.
Facade leaks only when it rains: what is the cause and what can you do now?
Rain-related leaks are often caused by porous masonry, worn pointing, hairline cracks in facade details, damaged water barriers at lintels, leaky window frames and sealant joints, or a clogged cavity with wet insulation. During strong winds, water enters the cavity through weep holes and cracks. Sometimes it looks like condensation, but the timing and location of the stains betray rain penetration.
If possible, temporarily seal open joints and seams with tape as an emergency measure and limit ventilation loss inside. Call us for an urgent inspection; we are on-site nationwide within an hour. If you would like to delve deeper into rain penetration and our test setup, read how we specifically demonstrate rainfallThis is how you prevent permanent moisture damage, mold, and peeling plaster.
What does facade leak detection cost and what do you get in terms of report and insurance?
The investment depends on the type of facade of the residential or commercial building, accessibility, and the required test combination. You will receive a clear quotation within 24 hours, and we work on a no cure, no pay basis. Our certified VCA VOL and NEN 3140 specialists deliver a complete expert report within three days, including measurement values, IR images, endoscopy photos, and a root cause analysis.
The report contains repair advice, an estimate of consequential damage, and passages requested by insurers. We liaise daily with policy departments and provide advice on coverage for each situation. If you want to handle your claim smoothly, view our insurance-proof facade leakage reportWith 15 years of experience and five-star reviews, you receive 100 percent risk-free help.
How do you distinguish penetrating damp from leakage through the cavity wall or window frames?
Penetrating damp manifests as wet spots that follow the direction of the rain, often without a clear source near window frames. Cavity or window frame leakage more frequently results in brown streaks under lintels, wet skirting boards around window frames, or moisture around connections. Condensation primarily causes dull mold edges in cold corners, detached from showers.
We demonstrate the difference with a combination test including thermography, moisture profiles, a smoke test from the cavity, and a targeted spray test per detail of the water barrier, jointing, and window frame. This eliminates misdiagnoses and allows for targeted repairs. If you want to know for sure where the moisture is located inside first, view our approach with objective moisture measurements on the interior wallUltrices leak detection works without breaking open and guarantees coverage.