Infrared Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections
Home inspections are an important process for anyone buying or selling a home, or homeowners maintaining their property. For a more in-depth evaluation, some home inspectors use infrared thermal imaging in home inspections. The images taken by an infrared camera may reveal vulnerable areas of the property that a homeowner or home buyer should address moving forward.
How Does Infrared Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections Work?
An infrared camera is used in a variety of applications, and that includes infrared thermal imaging for home inspections. Problems can be detected relating to moisture leaks, heat loss, missing insulation, damaged or missing framing, problems with the overall structure of the home, and even a broken seal within a double-paned window. The thermal imaging camera displays variances in temperatures to help reveal hot and cool areas in a home. By capturing these levels of infrared light, you can identify potential issues otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
Concerns with Moisture
A leak in a home is a big problem, even if it is just a few drops per minute. That little bit of moisture can quickly lead to mold growth, rotting framework, damaged ceilings, and destroyed flooring. Infrared thermal imaging in home inspections can detect even the smallest of leaks before they become a bigger issue. While the repair might be simple now, ignoring it could turn it into a costly project down the road. This inspection will include looking for potential roof leaks, wet insulation, plumbing concerns, and other moisture issues.
Excessive Hot Spots
A hot spot within a home often points to something like faulty electrical work or overheating equipment, which can be a dangerous fire hazard for a home. Investigating a hot spot further involves looking at circuits, outlets, wiring, and wired equipment. Bringing in an inspector that uses infrared thermal imaging in home inspections can help reveal electrical hazards.
Explanation of Results
Once a thorough investigation has been done using infrared thermal imaging, you will receive a report detailing the findings. A good home inspector will make sure that you understand the information that is being presented to you and advise you on how to best address the problems. It is important to remember that a home inspector can only diagnose problems that are occurring right now. They cannot predict or report on what might happen to a home in the future if an issue is not present at the time of inspection.
For more information contact Inspec-Pro Home Inspection at 613.606.1901 or email us at inspec-pro@outlook.com.