A thermal imaging scan is an important add-on to any home inspection. It identifies temperature variations that indicate issues hidden to the naked eye.
For example, insulation that has settled over time may have gaps that are causing energy loss. Also, significant wood destroying insect activity is often visible on the thermogram.
Heat Loss
When insulation is missing or sagging, a thermal imaging scan shows it in a way that’s impossible to see with the naked eye. Infrared images also show problems that might otherwise be hidden behind stucco or other materials. Thermal imaging is a growingly popular tool among attic professionals for the ability to identify problem areas in places that can’t be reached with other tools.
A thermal image can show moisture intrusion in walls and ceilings and identify leaks and other problems that might not be apparent during a limited visual home inspection. An example of this is shown in the photo above, where the thermal image reveals a darker color right at the wall-floor interface in a modern cinder block basement. This suggests a possible wet spot in the foundation that may need attention.
An infrared scan can also reveal problems with window seals and door gaskets. These can result in drafts, loss of energy efficiency and potentially harmful toxins entering the living spaces. Thermographic imaging can also identify thermal bridges, where uninsulated gaps or cavities allow heat to escape through the building envelope. Addressing these issues can save energy and improve comfort.
Thermal imaging can be used to identify a wide variety of problems, including broken seals in double-pane windows, water intrusion around penetrations and at the building envelope, plumbing leaks, electrical faults and overheating electrical components. Because the interpretation of infrared images can be challenging, it’s important to hire a qualified professional who understands what they’re seeing. A re-inspection after repairs are made can verify that the problems were resolved.
Moisture
Moisture can be a big problem in insulation installations. It can rot or degrade the materials, damage the building structure and cause electrical problems. When moisture is detected, a certified home inspector can use the thermal imaging camera to identify the moisture and determine what action needs to be taken.
In some cases, the moisture may be obvious from a visual inspection. In other situations, the water intrusion or energy loss may be hidden behind walls. Using the thermal imaging camera, the home inspector can detect areas where the insulation is wet or damaged. These areas can often be easily identified and corrected – potentially saving thousands of dollars in potential future damages.
The thermal imaging camera can also be used to detect broken seals on double-pane windows, plumbing leaks and overheating electrical just to name a few. This is a great benefit to homeowners, who may not have any idea they have a problem without opening up their wall and looking inside.
Although thermal imaging is a powerful tool in the hands of a certified home inspector, it can’t find every problem. Some issues cannot be detected through IR because they do not exhibit significant temperature variations. For example, mold and asbestos do not show up on the IR images. Regardless, a qualified home inspector should always recommend further testing or invasive techniques in conjunction with the use of thermal imaging to ensure a thorough assessment.
Electrical Issues
An experienced IR inspector can identify problems with electrical wiring or plumbing pipes that might otherwise be difficult to locate. This technology can reveal heat patterns that might indicate a faulty electrical circuit, overheated heating elements, or other potential safety hazards that may not be apparent with just a visual inspection.
During an IR inspection, an experienced insulation contractor can check the integrity of an attic’s insulation installation by checking for gaps or areas of uneven coverage. This can help homeowners address energy waste and improve indoor comfort. It can also help prevent expensive repairs or replacements caused by aging insulation or severe weather.
In addition to revealing air leaks and drafts, thermal imaging can be used to detect moisture intrusion that could lead to mold and rot, as well as other structural damage. This can be particularly useful for detecting areas of condensation around a fireplace or chimney flue that might not be visible during a limited visual home inspection.
It’s important to note that, although a thermal scan can detect moisture and other issues, it cannot see through walls or other obstacles. It is also not a foolproof tool for identifying some problems, such as asbestos or mold. It is best used in conjunction with other inspection techniques to provide a more complete assessment of a property’s condition.
Mold
Mold is a common issue that impacts insulation. It can lead to high energy bills, moisture damage, and a host of health issues. Thermal imaging can spot issues with mold in insulation installations. The spores of mold can cause allergic reactions in people that are sensitive to them. This can include sneezing, itchy eyes, and respiratory problems. It can also aggravate asthma and other chronic respiratory diseases in certain people.
The spores of mold can also make it difficult for some people to breathe. This is especially true for those with existing breathing issues such as asthma. Mold spores can irritate the lungs and cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain in these individuals.
If you suspect that your insulation is contaminated with mold, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. You can also check with a professional to determine the best course of action for remediation.
Moisture intrusion in insulation can be a major issue that can lead to rot and even structural damage. The leaking water can also promote the growth of mold, mildew, and other harmful organisms. Thermal imaging can help detect moisture by spotting areas where the insulation is colder than it should be. This may indicate a water leak, a condensation problem, or other issues that require immediate attention.