We can see what you can't.
Let us show you the value thermal imaging adds to the home inspection. Included with every inspection at no extra charge.
Thermal imaging (also known as an ‘IR Scan’) is an advanced, non-invasive technology that enables the home inspector to identify moisture intrusion, hot spots and/or energy loss inside a home which can’t be revealed using conventional inspection methods or even the naked eye!
How does it work?
Infrared (IR) cameras detect temperature variations among and between building materials. For example, when looking at a wall, the camera will detect the temperature of the drywall and contrast it using either color or shades of black and white relative to the temperature of the wood stud behind the drywall. Then, if there is water in there somewhere, it will determine the temperature of the water as well. Looking at the photo to the right, the camera uses color to illustrate the temperature difference between the drywall (red/warmer) and the supply register's metal (blue/cooler -- in this case, the air conditioning is on).
Using Thermal Imaging in a Home Inspection
At the end of the home inspection, your inspector will go through the entire house one more time with the infrared camera and scans each room (floor, walls and ceiling). If there are any significant temperature variations illustrated via color (or in shades of black/white/grey), then the home inspector will know that there is something potentially going on behind the surface which needs closer examination. If we suspect water intrusion or a leak of some kind, we'll use two kinds of moisture meters to verify that water is actually there (or not!)
Detecting Moisture Intrusion
Thermal imaging helps identify moisture (such as plumbing and roof leaks) that can lead to deterioration of wood and mold growth. If our home inspectors suspect a leak as revealed from an IR scan, then they will use a moisture meter to verify the presence of water. With the right tools, we can identify and verify a leak without having to open a wall or ceiling!
Detecting Electrical 'Hot Spots'
Thermal imaging locates hot spots that can lead to electrical and mechanical failure and/or fires, such as overloaded/undersized circuit breakers and overheated equipment and components.
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Detecting Energy Loss
Thermal imaging identifies areas of energy loss such as inadequate/missing insulation in walls and ceilings. Why pay higher energy bills when you don't have to?
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