Thermal Imaging Inspections
The thermal imaging camera is a tool that can help find additional issues that could not be detected with a visual only inspection.
Thermal imaging is included with all full inspections.
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.
Some anomalies will still defy explanations with secondary means and are then left to destructive inspection/testing means that are not a part of a normal home inspection.
Thermal imaging cameras are 100% safe for occupants.
They do not emit any harmful radiation. They only detect temperature anomalies.
