FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BUILDING INSPECTIONS
How Is Infrared Thermography used for a Building Inspection?
Thermal testing of the building envelope is used to identify a wide variety of issues. The main issues we find are moisture intrusion, inadequate or incorrectly applied insulation, air leakage from building pressure or exterior pressure, poor or faulty moisture barriers, and construction defects.
Do You Perform Building Envelope Infrared Inspections from the Ground?
Depending on the height of the building and accessibility, we can use ground thermal imaging equipment combined with an aerial thermal drone to reduce risks and get the best data possible.
How Are You Able to See Insulation Defects with Infrared Imaging?
The visibility of insulation through a thermal scan depends on the exterior and interior temperatures. If the temperatures are different, the missing or failing insulation is typically quite clear as it allows the transfer of heat much faster.
How Important is the Insulation in the Building Envelope?
The insulation within the building envelope is the buildings main component of energy efficiency. Once the insulation is compromised via moisture, movement, or simply being missing from repairs or install, it creates a domino effect of negative situations. The building loses its ability to maintain temperatures at an optimal level. The HVAC system must work harder to maintain the buildings environment. The HVAC systems components lose lifespan due to overworking. Costs of energy and maintenance increase.
What Are the Effects of Moisture Intrusion in Walls?
Moisture intrusion into walls can come from several areas that can be identified by infrared thermal imaging. The moisture once inside will saturate insulation reducing its R values, rot wooden structures, rust metal components, damage interior drywall, and create a mold issue.