Benefits Of Thermal Imaging In Home Inspections

Thermal imaging also known as thermography, or infrared thermography is a technology often misunderstood. While this isn’t new technology, it continues to make significant advancements, making it increasingly valuable for home inspections. In this article, we will discuss what it is, and how it aids in performing a more thorough home inspection.

What Is Thermal Imaging?

Thermal Imaging is the use of a specialized camera equipped with a sensor that detects light that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Light comes in varying wavelengths. While humans see light waves in the visible light spectrum, all objects on Earth emit infrared radiation that cannot be seen. Here is a short article that explains the electromagnetic spectrum, That’s where a thermal camera comes in. Contrary to common beliefs, thermal imaging does not allow us to see through walls. Rather, it allows inspectors to view an image of those varying levels of radiation emitted from the surfaces of objects. Through these images, we can learn a lot about a home, including clues on what might be going on behind the walls. This allows us to offer an even better home inspection for our clients.

What are the benefits of Thermal Imaging?

There are a number of benefits of Thermal Imaging in an inspection, they include but aren’t limited to:

1. Help spot potential leaks and moisture issues– Water is a much better thermal conductor than most materials. This allows us to view differences in surface temperatures that could indicate a damp/ wet area. We verify these findings through secondary inspection techniques and try to identify the source of the water. Thermal imaging allows us to discover moisture issues that we may not have found otherwise, potentially saving you substantial costs in repairs.
2. Detecting potential structural defects– Thermal imaging allows us to find missing/ damaged structural elements. Home inspections are visual and noninvasive, meaning we never tear open walls or ceilings, but with the use of a thermal camera, we can see much more than the naked eye.
3. Discovering Pest Infestations– Insects and other living organisms emit heat. When they are nesting in your walls or ceilings, that heat is conducted to the surface and can often be seen on our thermal cameras. This allows us to help find pest infestations in need of remediation.
4. Energy Efficiency/ Heat Loss– One of the most valuable aspects of thermal imaging is the ability to identify air leakage and insulation deficiencies. We can see areas where air is entering or leaving your home as well as areas that have insufficient/ no insulation. We can suggest corrections that could save you money and make your home more comfortable.
5. Electrical Defects– When electrical components get too hot, they could potentially cause a fire. Thermography helps us identify electrical components that are defective so that they can be corrected.
6. HVAC Issues– HVAC is critical to a comfortable home. With thermal imaging, we can discover leaking air ducts, under-insulated air ducts, and other issues with the HVAC.

Wrapping Up

Thermal Imaging is extremely valuable to a home inspection. While it isn’t magic, it certainly seems that way. Simply owning a thermal camera does not enable you to identify defects effectively. It requires proper training and practice to interpret thermal differences effectively. At Holston Home Inspections we are Certified Infrared Thermographers, so you can trust the results of our thermal inspection. Use the link below to schedule your inspection today!