Thermography is a non-destructive defect testing technique that can pinpoint moisture, electrical and energy efficiency issues in homes and buildings. Building eValuate are certified level 1 thermographers.
Building eValuate uses a Flir infrared camera as a supplementary tool for our building diagnostics services. Infrared thermography is the quickest and most definitive way to detect moisture, energy losses and electrical issues in your home. Thermal camera investigations are non-destructive and can provide you with valuable information on a variety of structural issues. We provide thermal photography services to private homes, commercial buildings and schools.
What can a thermal camera detect in my home?
- Moisture in wall structures
- Rising and lateral damp problems
- Building envelope leaks
- Mould in inaccessible cavities
- Water migration
- Water damage on internal decks
- Thermal signatures of latent moisture
- Poorly installed or inadequate insulation
- Air leaks in the building envelope
- Pipe location prior to drilling
- Electrical overloads
- Substandard sealing work
How does a thermal camera work?
All objects emit heat. This heat (thermal energy) is not visible to the human eye and needs to be measured under the infrared spectrum. A thermal imaging camera measures this heat and constructs an image of the emissions.
How do I know my house has mould or rising damp?
Rising and lateral damp is a major problem in many Tasmanian buildings, especially those built on steep sites with habitable rooms below ground level. Unfortunately, many buildings are constructed with sub-standard waterproofing and drainage systems in place. Damp problems can be costly to repair, but can lead to structural damage and health issues if left unchecked. Building eValuate uses a combination of inspection techniques and tools to definitively determine the cause and source of moisture ingress.
How can I find leaks or blockages in my water pipes?
Thermal imaging is an effective tool to locate and check pipes and ducting for leaks and blockages. This is a non-invasive process that is used when water pipes are concealed in floor or wall cavities.
How can I stop our electrical systems overheating?
Points of high resistance in electrical circuits usually show no visible signs of malfunction – until the component fails. When an electrical system is under load, high resistance in circuits creates heat imbalances that are detectable with a thermal camera. This process of component heating can take place over a long period – early detection and identification is the most critical step in avoiding costly shutdowns and repairs or a potential fire risk.
How can I monitor for thermal electrical faults?
Thermal electrical faults can be caused by poor or loose connections, loose crimps or poor contacts. Predictive inspections of electrical systems are often mandatory in commercial maintenance programmes. Thermographic surveys are conducted when the electrical systems are operating and under load. When faults have been detected, issues can be identified and rectified once a programmed shut down has been scheduled. This will save time and money.
Building eValuate’s thermal inspection tools
- FLIR B60 Infrared camera
- Moisture meter (communicates with camera)
- Video borescope