THERMAL IMAGING

THERMAL IMAGING

Moisture in building materials can destroy structural integrity and nurture mold. The first step in moisture problem remediation is to quickly and accurately locate and remove all sources of moisture. Thermal Imaging cameras instantly show you what’s wet and what’s dry. IR cameras can instantly find the ultimate source with little or no physical disassembly of the premises and minimal disturbance of inhabitants.

Thermal Imaging infrared cameras are the inspection assets preferred by building experts for fast, reliable, accurate building diagnosis in the entire range of building problems, from post-catastrophe fire and flood investigations to chronic leaks and moisture problems.

The ability to detect and measure thermal energy emitted from an object is known as thermography. The tools of the trade are called infrared cameras, and they translate the invisible infrared spectrum into thermal images that we can see and track via thermography.

Light that is not visible because its wavelength is too long to be detected by the human eye is referred to as thermal or infrared energy – and is the electromagnetic spectrum range that we perceive as heat. Everything with a temperature above absolute zero emits heat, which means that it may be tracked and measured via thermography. (Even ice cubes, emit infrared.) More and more IR radiation is emitted, as an objects temperature increases. Infrared thermography allows us to see, and measure, what our eyes cannot.

Many applications depend upon the precision and accuracy of the images and temperature readings from infrared thermography cameras. The images produced, clearly showing invisible infrared or “heat” radiation via thermography, aid in such diverse areas as medical and scientific research and development, building diagnostics and manufacturing product quality.

Thermal Imaging Scanner

One last note – Often I’m asked if Thermal Imaging will find mold? Thermal Imaging DOES NOT FIND MOLD. It helps identify areas with possible hidden water or moisture. Mold typically grows in areas with the right temperature, right relative humidity (RH) and the right food (cellulose type products i.e drywall, cardboard, wood etc.) So where there is water or moisture there can certainly be mold.

DASH Inspection Services uses a FLIR ThermaCAM infrared camera which is lightweight and rugged for use in the field.

Thermal Imaging of Pic to the right, notice blue areas, poss water damage
Picture of thermal imaged area - no indication of water
Thermal Imaging of Pic to the right, notice blue areas, poss water damage
Picture of thermal imaged area