Infrared Imaging Reveals Hidden Defects and Dangers

Carl Brahe

Infrared Imagery, or thermography, can seem to look into and through building structure and in a way this is true. Infrared cameras detect surface temperature of most materials. Some, like glass, reflect infrared light making it difficult to make thermal images of these materials. Heat travels through most building materials and affect the surface temperature. If a wall, or roof, has moisture in it the surface temperature will vary according to the amount of moisture behind it. Commonly used IR cameras detect temperature differentiation of .15°F and display the results in varying colors or monotone shades. Some common uses in commercial building inspections are shown below.

Water heater half full of sediment from mineral deposits

Contractor tried to cheat on insulation install in block wall thinking no one would be able to see

Roof leak seen from inside

Radiant heat lines in bathroom floor

Water leaking through foundation

Loos connection overheating in breaker panel

Heat bleeding onto the cold night air from all over house

Missing insulation in cathedral ceiling

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