FAQ
Technology leak detection — FAQ
Common questions from BC property owners, facility managers, engineers, and construction professionals. Don't see your question? Call us at 604-239-9934.
- Serving all of BCSince 1999
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- 25+ yearsFamily-operated
- 10,000+ propertiesInspected
- What is the most accurate leak detection technology?
- There's no single 'most accurate' technology — accuracy depends on the type of leak, pipe material, depth, and environment. We typically combine 2-3 methods and cross-reference results for maximum accuracy.
- Is leak detection technology safe?
- Yes. All our technologies are non-invasive and emit no harmful radiation. Thermal cameras are passive (they read heat, they don't emit). GPR uses low-power radio waves comparable to a Wi-Fi router. Tracer gas uses a safe 5% hydrogen / 95% nitrogen mix.
- Can you detect leaks through concrete?
- Yes. GPR penetrates concrete up to 45cm with high resolution. Thermal imaging detects temperature differences through slab surfaces. Acoustic correlation hears pressurized leaks through concrete.
- How deep can GPR see?
- Depth depends on frequency and soil: 1.6GHz (concrete, ~45cm), 400MHz (underground, 2-4m), 200MHz (deep subsurface, 5+m). Wet clay reduces depth; dry sand and rock are excellent.
- What's the difference between thermal imaging and moisture mapping?
- Thermal imaging detects surface temperature differences caused by moisture. Moisture mapping uses multiple sensor types (capacitance, conductivity, IR) to create 3D moisture distribution maps in building assemblies.
- Can drone thermal imaging replace a roof walk?
- Yes — and it's safer. A drone thermal survey covers thousands of square feet in one flight, identifies wet insulation, and eliminates fall risks. No scaffolding, no rope access.
- How accurate is acoustic correlation?
- Typical accuracy is within 30cm over pipe runs up to 1km. Accuracy depends on pipe material, pressure, soil conditions, and the correlator model. Our Gutermann AquaScan and Sebakmt correlators are industry-leading.
- What equipment brands do you use?
- FLIR thermal cameras, Gutermann and Sebakmt acoustic correlators, GSSI GPR systems, HIKMICRO thermal, RIDGID inspection cameras, Zonescan permanent monitoring, and specialized tracer gas detectors.
- Which technology is best for underground leaks?
- Acoustic correlation is the gold standard for pressurized underground pipe leaks. GPR confirms pipe location and depth. We use both together for maximum accuracy.
- Which technology finds slab leaks?
- Combination approach: GPR maps the in-slab plumbing, thermal imaging finds the temperature anomaly from hot water escaping, and acoustic correlation confirms the pressurized leak — all non-invasive.
- Can you detect leaks without any technology?
- Visual signs (stains, dampness, mould, warm floors) can indicate a leak exists, but they can't tell you exactly where. Our technology pinpoints the source within inches — no exploratory demolition.
- What is the newest leak detection technology?
- Permanent acoustic monitoring (Zonescan and similar) is the fastest-growing technology — always-on sensors provide early warning before damage occurs. We also deploy AI-enhanced acoustic analysis for pattern recognition.
- How do you decide which technology to use?
- It depends on pipe material, location (buried, in-slab, in-wall), pressure, accessibility, and the type of leak suspected. We combine methods when needed — thermal + acoustic + GPR is our most common combination.
- Do you need access to both sides of a wall or slab?
- Not always. Thermal imaging works from one side. GPR works from the surface. Acoustic correlation needs two access points on the same pipe. We adapt our approach to your access constraints.
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