Orlando and Central Florida Infrared inspection services

Infrared inspection (thermography) can be defined as the detection and measurement of emitted thermal energy (heat). This is enabled by the use of an infrared camera which translates the invisible infrared spectrum into a visual format, or thermal image.  This thermal image can then be interpreted to provide a noninvasive and nondestructive method of identifying building defects and deficiencies.

In addition to finding problems, infrared inspections are useful for clearance purposes and also to confirm that previously determined issues have been properly corrected or remediated.

Examples of infrared inspection applications:

• Water intrusion: scanning interior surfaces of a building with an infrared camera can reveal excess moisture due to plumbing leaks, roof leaks, leaks around windows, etc.  Wet areas of building materials cool when energy is transferred during the water evaporation process; therefore, a wet (“cooler”) area will stand out from the surrounding dry (“warmer”) surface.
   

• Insulation deficiencies: appreciable temperature differences, due to variations in thermal energy (heat) transfer, allow for detection of deficient or missing insulation when scanning ceiling and wall surfaces.
   

• Roofing leaks: scanning roof coverings can reveal water intrusion and accumulated moisture below the surface. Due to its thermal properties (high thermal capacity), water typically gives up heat at a much slower rate than the surrounding roof materials. The areas of accumulated moisture can therefore be detected when scanning the roof surface.  This type of roof inspection is best done in the evening or early nighttime after thermal energy imparted during the daytime is transferred or released.
   

• Electrical systems: deficiencies within the electrical system can be made visually apparent by use of an infrared camera.  For example, a deficient connection between electrical components can result in resistance which will manifest in an apparent temperature elevation when compared with similar types of connections under similar load conditions.
   

• Structural issues: differences in thermal capacity, conductivity, and other intrinsic qualities of building structural components can allow for their detection when scanning walls, floors, and ceilings with an infrared camera. Under the right conditions, missing structural components, and portions of structural components which are damaged (to the extent that their intrinsic qualities are significantly changed), can be detected.

Infrared inspections are performed by a Certified Building Science Thermographer.  Please contact us concerning your specific inspection needs. 

ITC/BSI (Infrared Training Center / Building Science Institute) Certified Building Science Thermographer. This is the primer training source for infrared camera related evaluation of buildings, both residential and commercial. #32939

Florida State Licensed / Certified One-And-Two Family Dwelling Inspector. This is a full scope residential code inspector license encompassing evaluation of the Building, Electrical systems, Plumbing systems, and Mechanical systems. #BN002465

International Code Council (ICC) Certified Residential Combination Inspector. This is a full scope residential code inspector certification encompassing inspection of the Building, Electrical systems, Plumbing systems, and Mechanical systems. The International Code Council is the organization that develops codes upon which the Florida Building Codes are based. #5185695

American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Member. The most recognized national home inspection association. #210905