Infrared (thermal imaging) is an advanced, non-invasive technology which involves using a FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) camera, Infrared Camera (IR), or videos to check the outside or inside of a building or home. It allows the inspector to show homeowners things about their homes that can’t be revealed using conventional inspection methods. Thermal imaging looks for areas of moisture that may lead to leaks and structural damage, it can detect abnormally hot electrical connections or components, and as a tool to help detect heat losses and air leakage in building envelopes by checking the effectiveness of insulation in a building’s construction. Thermal imaging can scan the plumbing and see if there is a leak. It allows the inspector to find heat and temperature anomalies and investigate more. Did you know that the infrared camera can pick up active nests of wood destroying insects? They radiate heat and then the infrared camera captures it. This is an area an inspector cannot see without opening up the walls or without using this type of technology.
