Infrared Thermal imaging

Thermal (or infrared) imaging is a technology that can help provide important information about areas of the home that are usually inaccessible. When used in conjunction with conventional inspection methods and tools, thermal imaging allows the inspector to dive deeper into these areas and may reveal information about the condition of the home that is not normally visible to the naked eye.

As with the other tools and technologies used in a home inspection, thermal imaging does have its limitations. A thermal imaging camera DOES NOT allow an inspector to "see through walls." Instead, it can detect minor differences in surface temperatures. These variations will show up as "hot" or "cold" spots on the camera that may indicate hidden issues that could be overlooked using traditional inspection methods.

See how thermal imaging can detect moisture under the carpet?

Some issues that a thermal image camera can help reveal include:

Missing, improperly installed, or settled insulation
Water intrusion hidden behind walls or other areas
(by detecting the difference in temperature between a wet area and the surrounding dry areas)
The source of water intrusion
Wood destroying insects
(Heat generated by active infestations can often be detected with a thermal imaging scan.)
Plumbing leaks in pipes or fixtures
(Infrared camera scans around plumbing fixtures and of pipes behind walls can help determine if there is any active leaking.)
Leaks in HVAC ductwork that can cause energy loss or condensation
(Heat and cooling losses cause furnaces and air conditioners to consume additional energy to maintain a set temperature.)
Faulty electrical wiring, breakers, and fuses
(Thermal imaging can detect abnormal heating associated with high resistance or excessive current flow.)

It is very important that your inspector be properly trained in how to use the camera and interpret the images. Joe Loyd is Infrared Certified through the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) to use thermal imaging photographs to point out potential issues.

We include thermal imaging services with every inspection to help provide you with extra information about the condition of your home.

Residual moisture from a previous leak under the kitchen sink. Not visible to the naked eye.