Thermal Imaging
Infrared Scanning
Although some people promote the magic of themal imaging cameras, they cannot see behind walls and other structures. Anything with a temperature above absolute zero emits heat. A thermal camera is able to detect this heat and create a thermal image based on that information. A qualified professional then examines the thermal image and assesses what's potentially going on behind the surface that’s causing the temperature variations in the thermal image.
Thermographic imaging cameras can detect serious problems that are invisible to the naked eye, such as:
- plumbing leaks
- air duct leaks
- moisture intrusion
- inadequate or non-existent insulation
- heating and cooling losses
- abnormal heat from an appliance or
electrical system - unwanted animals
- poor construction
If these problems go undetected they can cause further damage to your home.
An Inspector should:
- Explain the limitations of thermal imaging, including the fact that, as with any type of inspection, it can’t predict future conditions. However, a roof that is experiencing moisture intrusion which has been detected through thermal imaging will very likely lead to serious structural issues, if left unaddressed.
- Explain the capabilities of thermal imaging and how it can benefit your clients. Do you have marketing materials to give your clients that outline the various conditions that can be detected through infrared technology?
In terms of energy loss, an IR camera can detect:
- heat loss and air infiltration in walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors;
- damaged and/or malfunctioning radiant heating systems;
- air-conditioner compressor leaks;
- under-fastening and/or missing framing members, and other structural defects that can lead to energy loss; and
- broken seals in double-paned windows.
In terms of detecting moisture intrusion, an IR camera can locate:
- plumbing leaks;
- hidden roof leaks before they cause serious damage;
- missing, damaged and/or wet insulation; and
- water and moisture intrusion around penetrations and at the foundation and building envelope that could lead to structural damage and mold.
IR cameras are equally effective at locating hot spots in the home, including:
- circuit breakers in need of immediate replacement;
- overloaded and undersized circuits;
- overheated electrical equipment and components; and
- electrical faults before they cause a fire.
Additionally, based on the color gradients that thermal images provide, an inspector can locate:
- possible pest infestation, as revealed by energy loss through shelter tubes left by boring wood-destroying insects;
- the presence of intruders, such as rats, mice and other larger pests hiding within the structure and detected because of their heat signature that the IR camera captures; and
- dangerous flue leaks, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning of the home’s residents.
| Barrie Home Inspector | Cell Phone: (705) 795-8255 |
| Stollar Blvd, Barrie | Inspection Scheduling: (888) 818-8608 |
| Alliston, Barrie, Orillia, Simcoe County | Email: Click here to contact us |
| WETT Inspections |
