Detecting moisture intrusion problems is an excellent application for thermal imaging or infrared (IR) cameras.  Moisture intrusion may be identified through basic visual inspection if it has lead to obvious defects, such as staining or mold growth.  By the time visible evidence has presented itself, however, significant damage may have already been done.  In many cases, moisture or water intrusion may have been developing for a while before obvious signs become apparent.  By employing thermal imaging we can locate moisture issues before they become large problems and lead to serious damage, as well as gather details in cases where moisture intrusion has already become obvious.

 

Advantages:

 

Using an infrared camera provides certain advantages in locating moisture problems.  Thermal patterns created by latent moisture become readily apparent when viewed through an IR camera, even when they are not visible to the naked eye.  This is because the IR camera sees the apparent temperature difference between wet spots and building materials.  Water intrusion and excessive moisture within walls, under floors, and above ceilings will show up in the thermal image.  Water intrusion implies that the house has been compromised somewhere, perhaps through the roof, in the basement, or as the result of a mechanical or plumbing leak. 

 

Thermal imaging can help Bradenton Home Inspections inspectors locate the sources and extent of moisture intrusion. 

 

Here’s a list of its advantages.

• It's time-saving.

• It's easy to set up.

• It allows examination of areas that are not visible to the naked eye.

• It allows examination of areas that are difficult to access, such as tall ceilings.

• It allows for larger areas to be examined quickly.

• It helps locate sources of moisture intrusion.

• It helps determine the extent of moisture intrusion.

• It allows the user to trace the moisture intrusion through other affected areas.

• It provides visual documentation of moisture intrusion.

• It identifies moisture without the need for direct contact in potentially unsanitary areas, such as behind toilets.