Testing Services
Adhesion Testing
Independent, calibrated testing that measures bond strength between waterproofing membranes and substrates — before delamination or failure becomes a building defect.
NATA Accredited • AS/NZS Compliant · Calibrated Equipment
What is Adhesion Testing?
Adhesion testing measures the force required to detach a waterproofing membrane from its substrate. When a membrane loses bond, it can blister, delaminate or allow water ingress at the point of failure. Adhesion testing identifies these risks before they become costly building defects.
Waterproofing Integrity conducts adhesion testing to Australian and international standards, using calibrated equipment and trained technicians. Results are documented and reported, giving builders, developers and asset owners an objective record of membrane performance.
Testing is non-destructive in most applications and can be carried out on newly installed membranes, existing systems under investigation, or membranes being assessed prior to remediation.
Adhesion Testing Methods
Fit-for-purpose testing methodologies calibrated to your project conditions.
Pull Off Adhesion Testing
Pull-off testing, also known as tensile adhesion testing, is the most widely specified method for waterproofing membrane assessment. A metal dolly is bonded to the membrane surface and a calibrated hydraulic instrument applies a perpendicular tensile force until failure. The result is recorded in megapascals (MPa), with the failure mode noted – whether adhesive (membrane to substrate), cohesive (within the membrane body) or substrate-side.
- Compliant with ISO 4624 and AS 4858
- Provides quantified bond strength result
- Failure mode analysis included
- Suitable for cementitious, sheet and liquid-applied membranes
Peel Adhesion Testing
Peel testing is used to assess the adhesion of flexible sheet and liquid-applied membrane systems. A strip of membrane is peeled from the substrate at a controlled angle and rate, with resistance measured in newtons per millimetre (N/mm). Peel testing is particularly useful for identifying localised bond failures and is commonly specified during defect investigations on balconies, podiums and wet areas.
- Measures peel resistance across membrane surface
- Identifies localised delamination patterns
- Works through most flexible membrane types
- Suitable for balconies, podiums and wet area installations
Cross Cut Adhesion Testing
Cross‑Cut Adhesion Testing (AS 1580.408.1): Verify Coating Bond Quality. Simple Test, Clear Results.
Our Cross‑Cut Adhesion Testing service provides a quick, non‑destructive method to verify whether your liquid‑applied coating or membrane has properly bonded to the substrate beneath. The test, conducted to AS 1580.408.1, uses a precision cutting tool and adhesive tape to check how firmly the coating remains attached.
- Confirms surface preparation and coating compatibility
- Identifies weak adhesion before performance issues occur
- Ideal for multi‑layer systems and remedial work
- Fully compliant with Australian Standard AS 1580.408.1
Mortar Adhesion Testing
Mortar Adhesion Testing (ASTM C1857): Ensure Structural Bond Integrity. Confidence in Every Repair.
Repair mortars and overlays are only effective if they bond strongly to the substrate. Our Mortar Adhesion Testing service, performed to ASTM C1857, measures the true pull‑off strength of the repair interface – confirming the quality of surface preparation, product compatibility, and workmanship.
- Quantifies adhesion strength in MPa (not just a visual check)
- Identifies weak bonding or contamination between layers
- Provides clear data for structural engineers and warranty documentation
- Essential for both new repairs and diagnostic investigations
How It Works
01
Site Assessment
The membrane system, substrate condition and project requirements are reviewed. Test locations are agreed based on the scope of inspection or investigation.
02
Equipment Setup
Dollies or test strips are prepared and bonded to the membrane surface in accordance with the applicable standard. Equipment is calibrated prior to testing.
03
Testing
Tests are conducted systematically across the nominated locations. Adhesion values and failure modes are recorded for each test point.
04
Report & Results
A written test report is issued with all results, failure modes, photographic records and an independent assessment against the applicable standard or specification.
ISO 17020
NATA Accredited
Zero damage
Non-Destructive
Same day reporting
Available on request
When to Use Adhesion testing
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New Construction
Quality assurance testing on freshly applied membranes before tiling or backfilling.
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Existing Buildings
Diagnostic investigation to locate breaches causing water ingress without destructive methods.
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Maintenance Programs
Scheduled integrity checks to maintain warranty compliance and building performance.
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Over Tiled Surfaces
Vector mapping can detect breaches through tiles on balconies, podiums and rooftops.
Request Adhesion Testing
Tell us about your project. We’ll have the right specialist in touch shortly.
Common Questions about Adhesion Testing
How quickly will someone get back to me?
Our SLA is under 4 hours during business hours. Most enquiries receive a call within 2 hours. After-hours submissions are actioned first thing the next business day.
Do you work nationally?
Yes. We have offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane with specialists covering all states and territories.
What does an initial consultation involve?
We will discuss your project, understand the scope, and recommend the right service, whether that is a design review, inspection program, testing, or defect assessment. There is no cost or obligation for the initial conversation.
Do you provide waterproofing installation?
No. We are 100% independent consultants. We design, inspect, test, and advise. We never install. That independence is what makes our advice trustworthy.
What size projects do you work on?
Everything from single-dwelling remediation to multi-tower developments. Our client base includes tier-1 builders, major developers, and individual asset owners.
What accreditations do you hold?
We are NATA accredited for waterproofing testing and members of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing (AIW). Our team includes qualified building inspectors and registered engineers.
How are your fees structured?
Fees depend on scope, complexity, and service type. We provide a clear proposal with fixed pricing before any work begins. No hidden costs.
Can I send you plans or documents before our call?
Absolutely. After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions for sharing project documentation securely.