Delamination

In this video, we uncover delamination on an older roof—where the membrane has separated from the substrate. Once water gets into that void, it rarely stays put. Moisture can migrate through the assembly for several reasons:

Thermal cycling: daily heating and cooling causes the roof system to expand and contract, creating movement and pressure changes that can “pump” moisture farther from the original entry point.

Vapor pressure: trapped moisture can convert to vapor and build pressure, driving moisture into new areas of the assembly.

Capillary action: water can wick along interfaces, seams, fasteners, and porous materials, spreading laterally.

Gravity: water follows low points and slopes, often traveling to drains, edges, and transitions before it becomes visible.

Wind and pressure differentials: shifts in building pressure and wind effects can help move air and moisture within voids.

That’s why delamination is a serious condition: what begins as one localized breach can evolve into widespread moisture migration, recurring leaks, and escalating repair costs—often showing up far from the original entry point.