Roofing Hygrometric Analysis
How Do You Detect Hidden Moisture Beneath a Roofing Membrane?
A roof can appear perfectly watertight on the surface while containing trapped moisture that silently degrades the insulation and the substrate.
Gestion Defcor performs independent roofing hygrometric analyses for condominiums, institutions, and property managers in Montreal, on the South Shore, and across Quebec — precise detection, documented report, better-informed decisions.
Detect hidden moisture before it compromises your entire roof.
How Hygrometric Analysis Works
Hygrometric analysis works on a simple principle: water conducts electricity, dry materials do not. By passing an electrical signal through the roofing system, the device instantly identifies areas where moisture is present — without opening the roof, without demolition, without approximation.
What the Method Can Detect:
- Saturated insulation beneath an apparently intact membrane
- Progressive moisture retention zones
- Unresolved older infiltrations
- At-risk sectors before a resurfacing project
Why Hygrometry Goes Further Than Thermography
Infrared thermography detects temperature differences — a useful method, but sensitive to weather conditions, time of day, and stray heat sources on the roof. A buildup of debris can warm under the sun and indicate moisture where there is none.
Gestion Defcor uses the Tramex Dec Scanner, a device that sends an electrical signal through the roof surface. Where moisture is present, the signal responds differently, allowing affected areas to be located with precision, without opening the roof.
| Hygrometry | Thermography | |
|---|---|---|
| Detects actual moisture | ✓ | Indirectly |
| Sensitive to weather conditions | Minimally | Yes |
| On-site results | ✓ | ✓ |
| Risk of false positives | Low | Higher |
Situations Where This Analysis Is Particularly Useful:
- Before a Resurfacing Project: Targeting the zones to remove rather than replacing everything
- After a Repaired Infiltration: Confirming that the moisture has not spread
- Before a Real Estate Transaction: Validating the true condition of the system in place
- During a Roof Inspection: Complementing the visual diagnosis with measured data
What the Mandate Includes
- Methodical hygrometric scan of the entire surface
- Mapping of identified suspect zones
- Report with photos, observations, and recommendations
- Clear direction on the next intervention steps
Don't replace what can still be saved.
