Nspectr Services

What is InfraRed Thermography; and how will it or could it assist in your home inspection? First of all, InfraRed Thermography is not x-ray and can not see through any materials. It only displays the surface temperatures or radiated heat. The amount of heat radiated however is dependant upon the materials, colours, etc and can at times provide information that can be misleading if not properly understood or interpreted. There as as many misunderstood infrared pictures in the field as there are accurate ones. Why? Well because often times a home inspector will purchase an infrared camera and begin work the next day. They have no experience, no training and no certifications. Proper use and more importantly interpretation of thermography images requires all three.

When properly trained and certified an inspector using a thermal imaging camera will provide valuable assistance in finding potential problems one could not see with a naked eye.

We believe thermal imaging works, and are so convinced we have actually taken courses from:

InterNACHI.

Home inspectors who use Infrared Cameras will often refer to this as Thermal Imaging. It is often used to assist in location of hidden deficiencies. These often will include missing insulation, hot spots on electrical panel and moisture penetration.

It is true that InfraRed Thermography or Thermal Imaging can assist with locating electrical related problems, finding areas with missing, damaged or wet insulation, locating heat loss in building envelope, potential moisture intrusion, plumbing leaks, problems with HVAC or damaged radiant heating piping.

It is also prone to many errors in data interpretation and accurately understanding what is seen. However when performed by a Certified inspector Infrared Thermography or Thermal Imaging is a non-invasive tool to assist in finding potential issues which warrant further investigation.