Thermal Imaging

Thermal Imaging

Thermal Imaging

What Is Thermal Imaging 
Thermal Imaging uses infrared technology to detect minimal differences in temperature. Every material has a unique thermal signature, also known as the "heat signature," which is a visual illustration of the external temperatures that object or person is exuding. Thermal signatures are not constant, however, and can change due to environmental pressures. When moisture, heat, cold, or even wood-destroying insects are introduced to a structure or object, the effects of these elements and/or organisms disrupts the thermal signature.  
 
These changes can be either subtle or dramatic, but with thermal image technology, the thermal signatures are detectable where they would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye. Note that, although thermal imaging devices are referred to as "cameras," they are more sensors than a camera. These devices simply detect temperatures and visualize them in a way that is easily understandable to the observer. Once restricted to applications in military use and scientific research, thermal image scanning & technology is now being applied to the inspections of residential and commercial structures as well.  Since these tools are non-invasive, they can quickly and safely reveal suspected issues in a given structure. This significantly reduces the amount of time dedicated to a single inspection, and eliminates the need for destructive investigation practices, in some cases.
 
What Thermal Imaging Is Not
Though this technology has existed for quite some time, its lack of integration into the daily lives and activities of the average person has made it challenging to gain a thorough understanding of what it truly is. Many people still cling to misunderstandings of what thermal imaging is and its applications, so below are a few things that this technology is often mistaken for:
  • Moisture Meter: Since moisture meters and thermal imagers present environmental data in a similar fashion, many people often get the technologies confused. A thermal imager simply identifies thermal anomalies, and it provides no information on an object's moisture levels.
  • X-ray Vision: It does not provide the user with an immediate Superman S on their chest with the ability to see inside walls. Thermal imagers detect information based on the heat emitted from an object, not by seeing into the object's internal structures. 
Additionally, many homeowners feel that the accuracy of the technology lends it to be an invincible solution to complications affecting components of residential systems. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Although thermal imaging significantly improves the ability of technicians to detect problems in your home, it is not a silver bullet. It allows technicians to identify issues that would not otherwise be detectable, especially when combined with other technologies. Still, it is not a total risk eliminator and should not be viewed as such.
 
How Is Thermal Imaging Used In A Home Inspection?
Many areas of the home can be scanned with thermal imaging technology to improve their condition and functionality. Such areas include:
  • Insulation: This is a common problem found in areas of the home where insulation is not visible, such as walls, cathedral ceilings, etc. Noticeable temperature differences due to differences in the amount (or a lack) of insulation allow for the identification of deficiencies at these sites.
  • Structural issues: Differences in thermal capacity, conductivity, and other qualities of building structural components can be detected when scanning walls, floors, and ceilings with an infrared camera. This could point to plumbing leaks, rodents burrowing in walls or ceiling insulation materials, underfloor heating components, and plumbing materials.
  • Electrical systems: Deficiencies within an electrical system can be made visually apparent by the use of an infrared camera. For example, a faulty connection between electrical components can cause resistance, causing temperatures to rise in circumstances wherein they would otherwise be stable.
Why Add Basic Thermal Imaging To A Home Inspection?
Combined with traditional home inspection techniques, the thermal imaging inspection methods reveal substantially more of the house than can be perceived by the naked eye and conventional inspection tools. Unfortunately, even with a powerful flashlight, many complications can go unnoticed. Our basic thermal scans can reveal several current and potential issues. Still, you must recognize that this is not a full home energy audit. 

Thermal Imaging With ProPrecise Property Inspections
Occasionally, we will allow limited use of thermal imaging cameras in our standard inspections, free of charge. The purpose of this equipment is variable and is based, in part, on:
  • The availability of equipment
  • The weather
  • The type of home
  • Type of inspection being performed  
For a small fee, however, you can have a more in-depth thermal scan included in your home inspection. 
An added "Basic Thermal Scan" of the home will include an inspection of the following areas in the home:
All exterior walls
  • Ceilings
  • Door
  • Floor heating
  • Ducts  
Note that this service may not always be available, and at times, it may not be a suitable option for inspection. It's best to perform thermal scans primarily when temperatures fluctuate inside of the object or area in question, rather than varying external temperatures. Hot summer or cold winter days are the best examples of such conditions.
 
To get an accurate thermal scan of your home, call ProPrecise Property Inspections. Our technicians will work with you to determine the areas in your home that need to be inspected and provide you with the tools you need to make your home stronger and safer for years to come.
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