Certified
Thermographer - I.T.C. - #9866
About Infrared Thermography
Thermography is the use
of an infrared imaging and measurement camera to ‘see‘ and ‘measure‘ thermal
energy emitted from an object. Thermal, or infrared energy, is light that is not
visible because its wavelength is too long to be detected by the human eye; it's
the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we perceive as heat. Unlike
visible light, in the infrared world, everything with a temperature above
absolute zero emits heat. Even very cold objects, like ice cubes, emit infrared.
The higher the object's temperature, the greater the IR radiation emitted.
Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot. Infrared thermography cameras
produce images of invisible infrared or ‘heat‘ radiation and provide precise
non-contact temperature measurement capabilities.
FLIR BCAM SD
How Do Thermal Imaging Infrared
Cameras Work
An infrared camera is a
non-contact device that detects infrared energy (heat) and converts it into an
electronic signal, which is then processed to produce a thermal image on a video
monitor and perform temperature calculations. Heat sensed by an infrared camera
can be very precisely quantified, or measured, allowing you to not only monitor
thermal performance, but also identify and evaluate the relative severity of
heat-related problems.
Moisture Intrusion at Window
We
have added Infrared Thermal
Imaging to our Mold Inspection and EIFS Inspection services. We
use this tool mainly to locate and pinpoint sources of leaks and water intrusion
in buildings and roofs thus eliminating the need for destructive source finding.
Using Thermal Infrared Imaging method is the most effective method of locating
moisture. It is most effective when performed shortly (within a few days or
weeks) after a leak occurred and less effective when no moisture remains in the
building material.
Moisture Intrusion behind Siding
How does it work?
The camera senses the difference in
temperatures, down to fraction of a degree, and displays the differences in a
gradient gray scale on the display. We can determine where the water intrusion
is located and confirm the findings with a probe moisture tester when needed.
With Infrared Thermal Imaging we can quickly inspect a large building, a
multi-unit apartment or hotel to determine where the moisture problems are
located. No
need for destructive exploratory inspections by opening walls and ceilings to
look for leaks! If it’s wet the camera will find it!
Wet
Floor Decking
Other uses for Infrared Thermography
Missing or damaged wall and ceiling insulation
For non-destructive
detection of areas of missing, moisture-laden or otherwise damaged insulation in
walls, crawlspaces and attics, or around doors, windows, electrical outlets and
other access plates, Infrared technology can't be beat! All of these problems
can increase a building’s energy costs by allowing cold air to enter the
building and heated air to escape in the winter, and the reverse in the warmer,
summer months.
Faulty Electrical and Mechanical Components
Infrared cameras are very
effective at detecting overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, and loose electrical
connections, which all will generate heat, and can pose serious fire hazards.
Construction Defects.
The use of EIFS (Exterior
Insulation and Finish Systems), stone, stucco and brick veneers as facades on
residential, as well as commercial buildings, invites the possibility of water
intrusion if they are not properly installed. Infrared cameras can detect or
verify moisture infiltration in these weatherproofing ’barrier’ systems, often
the result of insufficient details such as inadequate or improperly applied
flashing or sealants. In addition, IR can monitor and track moisture migration
paths within the wall cavity.
Call 253-209-0878 for
Inspection Fee Information
(fee’s are based on project requirements)
