Why use infrared thermography?

Infrared thermographic cameras can assist in moisture intrusion inspections. The camera detects temperature differences, which is helpful in detecting water inside walls, under flooring, hidden in ceilings, etc.

About Infrared Thermography

Thermography is the use of an infrared imaging and measurement camera to "see" and "measure" thermal energy emitted from an object. Thermal, or infrared energy, is light that is not visible because its wavelength is too long to be detected by the human eye; it's the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we perceive as heat. Unlike visible light, in the infrared world, everything with a temperature above absolute zero emits heat. Even very cold objects, like ice cubes, emit infrared. The higher the object's temperature, the greater the IR radiation emitted. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot. Infrared thermography cameras produce images of invisible infrared or "heat" radiation and provide precise non-contact temperature measurement capabilities. Nearly everything gets hot before it fails, making infrared cameras extremely cost-effective, valuable diagnostic tools in many diverse applications. And as industry strives to improve manufacturing efficiencies, manage energy, improve product quality, and enhance worker safety, new applications for infrared cameras continually emerge.

What is an infrared/thermographic camera and what defects will/will not be uncovered using this specialized instrument?

Moisture in building materials can destroy structural integrity and nurture mold. The first step in moisture problem remediation is to quickly and accurately locate and remove all sources of moisture. Infrared cameras instantly show you what's wet and what's dry. IR cameras can instantly find the ultimate source with little or no physical disassembly of the premises and minimal disturbance of inhabitants.

Scope of Infrared Moisture Survey

If this service is purchased we will perform a non-invasive infrared survey of the readily accessible walls, ceilings, and floors. Specifically, we will observe and document using natural and infrared photography areas requiring further investigation. All findings should be confirmed by specialists. Infrared technology measures surface temperature only; window, floor and wall coverings may prevent accurate assessment of these areas. We do not remove floor and wall coverings or move furniture, open walls or perform any type of destructive inspection. This infrared survey is not a mold survey. Infrared surveys can be used to find moisture which is a necessary element for mold growth to occur but will not directly detect the presence of mold.

Scope of Infrared Electrical Survey

If this service is purchased we will perform an infrared survey of the readily accessible electrical service panels. We will observe a

representative number of wall switches and outlets. We will observe and document using natural and infrared photography areas requiring further investigation. All findings should be confirmed by specialists. Infrared technology measures surface temperature only; if panel covers are not removed for safety reasons or other these areas are not consider readily accessible.

Scope of Infrared Insulation and HVAC Survey

If this service is purchased we will perform a non-invasive infrared survey of the readily accessible walls and ceilings. A survey of floor insulation cannot be effectively performed using IR. We will observe HVAC flues and chimneys from the interior for proper clearance from combustible materials. We will observe the return air temperature versus the supply temperature and document its range as acceptable or requiring further investigation. Specifically, we will observe and document using natural and infrared photography areas requiring further investigation. All findings should be confirmed by specialists. Infrared technology measures surface temperature only; window, floor and wall coverings may prevent accurate assessment of these areas. We do not remove floor and wall coverings or move furniture, open walls or perform any type of destructive inspection.