Roof Leak Investigation Case Study: Chestnut Hill Shoppes
Find Out How We Identified The Leak Source At Chestnut Hill Shoppes
The Problem
In November of 2022, Roof Consulting Services, Inc was contacted by Acadia Realty to assess ongoing leaks at one of their properties, Chestnut Hill Shoppes in Philadelphia. The roof was installed in 2021 and had experienced intermittent leaks since its installation.
The installing contractor assessed the condition and provided immediate repair—however, the tenants reported that minor leaks continued. The installing contractor claimed the leaks could be attributed to the poor state of the adjoining shingle/roof area, which was not included in their replacement scope.
RCS was asked to investigate the leak and determine whether the source was covered by the contract.
The Results
RCS inspectors met with facility maintenance and the contractor to review the active leak areas and examine previous repairs.
Isolated water testing was performed for five hours, starting at the base of the rising wall/low-slope system and working up the wall onto the adjoining shingle roof assembly. Interior leaks were discovered at numerous locations along the eave of the shingle roof assembly, and temporary stop-gap repairs were implemented by the contractor onsite.
The Solution
RCS concluded that the newly installed system was watertight; however, the secondary shingle roof system adjoining the low-slope roof area was deteriorating and in need of replacement. Temporary repairs were implemented onsite to prevent further disturbance to the building tenants, and a budget for the replacement of the shingle roof system was provided to the building owner.
Overall, Chestnut Hill Shoppes saved thousands on a potential roof replacement and finally discovered what the issue had been with their roofs. Best of all, we drafted a plan they could present to a contractor for long-term repairs.
