Frequently asked questions
What is thermography?Is thermography related to EcoEnergy audits?
Can thermal imaging (infrared) cameras see right through the walls in my home?
Is infrared Thermography safe?
How does infrared Thermography detect moisture?
Does your infrared camera detect the presence of mold, ants or any other household invaders?
Where can thermal imaging be used for predictive and preventative maintenance?
Will the infrared camera work in total darkness?
How long does an infrared scan take and when will I have my report?
Should a newly constructed home be inspected?
Can I accompany the Thermographer during the inspection?
What is included in the report?
Why should I have my home inspected with an infrared camera?
What is Thermography? [Top]
Thermography accurately measures the surface temperatures of an object using an infrared camera. These cameras "see" heat based on the visible light spectrum. A home scan image displays precisely the temperature variations of a buildings walls, ceilings and floors. The resulting images (thermograms) are analyzed to help determine if insulation, electrical, moisture and structural issues exist. They also serve as a quality control in newer homes.
Is thermography related to EcoEnergy assessments? [Top]
Thermographic scans are commonly used during an ecoEnergy assessment in conjunction with a blower door test. The blower door exaggerates air leaks, causing them to appear as black streaks (wisps) on the infrared cameras screen. However, even without the blower door test the cameras can still be used to determined exactly where the insulation is missing and, to a lesser extent, where the air is exiting the building.
Can thermal imaging (infrared) cameras see right through the walls in my home? [Top]
Absolutely not. Although it does appear as if you are looking directly at components within the wall cavity, what you are actually seeing are the temperature differentials on the surface of the wall due to material or moisture conducting temperatures directly onto the wall that is being scanned. Infrared cameras can not see through clothing or windows either.
Is infrared Thermography safe? [Top]
Yes. It is non-invasive and does not require removing materials (ceilings, walls, floors, etc.) in order to detect concealed issues. Infrared cameras use the visible light spectrum to which every person is exposed to, and therefore is 100% safe to be used around children and pets.
How does infrared Thermography detect moisture? [Top]
As moisture evaporates it creates a cooling effect similar to getting out of the shower and standing under a fan. This cooling effect is clearly displayed on the infrared cameras monitor in blueish colours, varying in shades from cooler to warmer. We then interpret the readings of this cooling effect directly to you.
Does your infrared camera detect the presence of mold, ants or any other household invaders? [Top]
An infrared camera does not detect the presence of mold or insects. It can however be used to look for areas that retain moisture and therefore leave a different heat pattern (signature) than the surrounding environment. Since mold usually grows in areas where above average moisture resides it is possible to locate it and mark it for further inspection. A concentrations of insects is usually only indicated as a heated area and again is marked for further inspection.
Where can thermal imaging be used for Predictive and Preventative maintenance? [Top]
There is no perfect building and most all will have issues that are unknown to the occupants until scanned. We will show you how these issues can be corrected and can actually detect potential issuesbefore they become dangerous. The most typical infrared scanning will detect hidden structural deficiencies, moisture intrusion, unknown electrical faults, and energy issues.
Will the infrared camera work in total darkness? [Top]
Absolutely. Lighting is not required when scanning your building. An infrared camera operates solely utilizing heat information and most objects will present a different thermal signature to their surroundings, only translating heat signatures into coloured light for viewing purposes. It can be placed in a room with total darkness, and although your infrared results will not be impeded, however the operator may have difficulty!
How long does an infrared scan take and when will I have my report? [Top]
An average size home (2,000 square feet) can be scanned in approximately 1.5-2 hours. It will then take 2-3 hours back at the office to generate the IR report. The results are then emailed to you for your perusal within 24 hours. These times may vary slightly depending on the size, age, condition of the home being scanned and how many images are needed to identify any issues in a particular home.
Should a newly constructed home be inspected? [Top]
Absolutely! "New" does not guarantee perfection. IR scans have been performed on many newly constructed homes and a perfect home has yet to be found. There will be issues no matter what, and with our thermal imaging cameras we can find out to what extent. Locate those issues now, before you close or your warranty expires and eliminate any problems that are not visible to the naked eye.
Can I accompany the Thermographer during the inspection? [Top]
Absolutely. It is always strongly recommend that you walk right alongside. We will point out the areas in question, show you the IR screen and give you options on how it can be properly corrected. Also, feel free to ask us any questions that you may have. This will assist you in obtaining the most benefit from the infrared inspection and you will gain the most understanding of the many systems that make up your home.
What is included in the report? [Top]
You will receive a comprehensive report with an inventory of all scanned images in an email generally within 24 hours of inspection. It will provide in clear written detail all the thermal anomalies that have been detected, as well as recommendations for repair.
Why should I have my home inspected with an infrared camera? [Top]
Your home is likely to be the largest investment you'll make in your lifetime. While living in this home, you want to know up front where hidden defects are lurking, defects that could be expensive to repair should you wait too long. As well, thermal discrepancies that are corrected now will pay for themselves within the first couple years. Keep your home comfortable and safe while protecting your investment.