First-time home buyers need all the help they can get when buying a home- and thermal imaging inspections can play a key role in the process.
Infrared thermal imaging cameras detect small but significant variations in temperature in different areas of a home.
They can help homeowners and inspectors recognize problem spots in HVAC systems, roofing, windows, doors and insulation that the naked eye can never see.
What Infrared Thermal Imaging Reveals In A Home Inspection
Moisture is a huge problem that can be revealed using thermal imaging systems during home inspections. Moisture problems come in many forms - roof leaks, hidden troves of mold, leaky pipes and wooden beams with termite nests are some of the most common.
By highlighting temperature changes between dry and wet surfaces, thermal cameras make spotting moisture issues simple - and provide photographic evidence to boot.
Electrical issues can also be revealed by thermal imaging systems - including heat and energy loss, structural concerns, foundation cracks, ventilation glitches, missing insulation, and rodent infestations.
Let’s discuss some of the most common issues we can discover with a thermal camera that will save you money.Roof Leaks
Water will generally give up its heat at a slower rate compared to its surrounding roofing materials due to its high thermal capacity.
Thus, we can see with just one picture if any regions contain moisture.
This is best done in the evening when the temperature outside starts to fall.
The roofing material will have released heat showing up purple or blue on the image, while wet materials will still be warm and show up as orange or red on the image.
The image on the top right reveals a bad leak in winter, displaying blue as the cold infiltrates the warm house.
Electrical Faults
ID’ing the source of electrical problems precisely & quickly can add huge value to a home while preventing property damage and injury.
Thermal images will reveal yellow marks wherever the electrical systems are damaged, which makes it simple to find and place on the list of renovations/repairs needed.
Structural Defects
When scanning ceilings, floors, and walls with a thermal camera, we can detect differences in temperature and conductivity that tell us about hidden missing structural elements and damaged components.
In addition to missing insulation, many homes will reveal moist basement walls that can be a potential source of mold.
Information from thermal imaging inspections is beneficial to the owner or prospective buyer of a home.
However, it’s also worth noting that house inspections have their limits. The results must be interpreted by a specialist who knows about possible sources of error in measurements such as reflected heat, dry areas, and the limit of surface readings.
When purchasing your dream home, make sure that it doesn’t have hidden problems by demanding a thermal image home inspection.
Home sellers do not want unexpected issues (particularly the easily fixable type) arising and scaring off a potential customer when they complete the inspection.
Even current homeowners with no intentions of selling would benefit from getting a thermal inspection completed. Infrared Technology is a fantastic addition to a visual inspection.
It does not negate the requirement for an inspector with knowledge and experience of all systems that make up a home.
As always, choose wisely!
