Infrared Thermography

Infrared Thermography

What is it?

Infrared Thermography is the process of acquisition and analysis of thermal information from non-contact thermal imaging devices.

Common Misconceptions

Infrared cameras cannot:

• See through clothes
• See through walls
• Detect the source of moisture leaks
• Detect the source of mold

What can it do?

Infrared cameras can detect:

• Insulation deficiencies
• Air infiltration and exfiltration issues
• Materials that have been impregnated with moisture
• Loss of gas from high efficiency windows
• Presence of insect nests and live vermin
• Electrical hazards/overloading
• Poor workmanship
• Building defects by observing how heat flows through walls and surfaces

How does it work?

An Infrared camera detects the energy given off of an object. Typically, the hotter an object is, the more energy is given off. This energy is converted by the Infrared camera to a visible representation, in varying colors of shades of grey or color. This allows users to see a graphical representation of the different amounts of energy that an object is emitting.

What are the benefits of having an Infrared scan on a building?

In addition to the items listed under the “What can it do?” heading, an infrared camera can be used in conjunction with other building diagnostic tools to calculate possible heat loss numbers for structural components such as walls.

R value can also be determined when the temperature conditions are suitable for conducting these types of measurements.

Benefits to clients include increased energy efficiency and resulting cost savings. Structures can be  made more efficient by detecting areas of energy loss that may not be visible to the eye.