Five Signs You Shouldn't Overlook During the Rainy Season

Rain, humidity, solar radiation, and temperature changes are among theto which to which buildings in the country and whichcan contribute to the gradual deterioration of roofs and roof coverings. According to the Climate Forecast throughAugust–October 2026, published by the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI), precipitation patterns vary by month and region; therefore, conditions must be assessed on a region-by-region basis throughout the country, where intense heat is observed in the Ecuadorian highlands and the onset of rains in the coastal region.

Given this situation, preventive maintenance takes on special importance, particularly in homes exposed to frequent rain or moisture buildup. Concrete slabs, metal roofs, fiber-cement roofs, gutters, and joints with walls all have areas that must be inspected periodically to identify potential sources of leaks.

According to a qualitative study conducted by Grupo Ekos for Imptek, 80% of formal waterproofing projects report the application and use of products as a preventive measure.

A small crack may seem harmless; however, continuous exposure to water can lead to the gradual ingress of water and, as a result, moisture moisture through the roof. The first signs usually appear inside the home, in the form of stains, peeling paint, mold, or persistent odors. By that point, the water may have already reached other parts of the building.

“In Ecuador, we find different types of roofs and weather conditions, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution for all roofs. Before performing any waterproofing: it is necessary iidentify the source of the leak. Additionally, it is important to consider the conditions of the surface in order to choose the appropriate system for each case,” explained Sebastián Prado, manager of the Waterproofing Unit at Saint-Gobain Imptek.

Five Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Before and during rainy periods, checking certain parts of the roof can help you detect problems early:

1. Cracks and fissures
Even small openings can allow water to seep in when rainfall is frequent or prolonged.

2. Deteriorated joints and connections
The junctions between walls and roofs, as well as the spaces around pipes, skylights, antennas, or other elements installed on the roof, require special attention.

3. Clogged gutters, drains, and downspouts
The buildup of leaves, dirt, and debris can prevent water from draining properly and cause overflow.

4. Areas Prone to Water Pooling
The constant presence of water on a slab or roof can accelerate the deterioration of materials and increase the risk of leaks.

5. Internal Signs of Moisture
Stains, peeling paint, mold, or persistent odors may be signs that water has already entered the building.

Every roof requires a different solution

Not all roofs are in the same condition or require the same type of repair. The solution must be determined based on the type of roof, the material, and the extent of the damage.

Asphalt strips, such as Alumband, can be used to address specific problem areas and seal leaks, including: seams, joints, or cracks. Meanwhile, complementary waterproofing coatings complementary, such as asphalt cement, require prior evaluation and preparation of the surface, as well as application in accordance with the manufacturer’s technical specifications.

It is also important to avoid makeshift repairs that merely hide the problem temporarily without addressing its root cause. An improper repair can make it difficult to identify the leak, affect the adhesion of other materials, or create “hidden points” where water to enter.

With 47 years of experience in the Ecuadorian market, Saint-Gobain Imptek emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of preventive maintenance in buildings. Regularly inspecting roofs helps identify and address minor damage, protect the interior of homes, and help extend the service life of the materials.

Before a leak reveals the problem, inspecting the roof can make all the difference. Prevention begins with a thorough inspection, identifying the source of the potential leak, and selecting a solution compatible with the characteristics of each surface.

About Saint-Gobain:

A global leader in lightweight and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures, and distributes materials and services tailored to the residential, non-residential, and infrastructure markets. Its integrated and innovative solutions deliver sustainability and performance to its customers. The Group is guided by its purpose: “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME.”

• €46.4 billion in sales in 2025
• 161,000 employees, operations in 81 countries  
• Committed to achieving zero net carbon emissions by 2050  

For more information about Saint-Gobain, visit us www.saint-gobain.com and follow us on X @saintgobain.

About Imptek:

Imptek-Chova del Ecuador S.A. is an Ecuadorian company belonging to the Saint-Gobain Group with 46 years of experience in the waterproofing, road construction, and light construction markets.

Its commitment to quality and innovation, its implementation of processes, its national and international certifications, its qualified staff, and its environmentally responsible practices are just some of the reasons why it ranks among Ecuador’s 1,000 most important companies. Since 2021 and to date, it has been a Great Place to Work®-certified company to Work. Imptek has been exporting its products for 30 years to more than 9 countries in Latin America.

• $25 million in sales by 2025
• 120 employees, offices in 1 country
• Committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050

For more information about Imptek, visit us: http://www.imptekcorp.com and follow us on  LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram ,YouTube and TikTok.