What is a thermographic inspection?

January 29th, 2023

Infrared thermography technology is very useful when inspecting buildings. Indeed, it can detect problems invisible to the naked eye, such as heat loss problems in the roof and walls. It is a very useful technique to detect anomalies that can threaten the integrity of buildings. The following blog post will attempt to explain what thermography is and some of its benefits.

What is thermography?

Thermography, or commonly referred to as infrared thermography, is the technique of providing a thermal image of a scene, primarily in relation to a residential building, through infrared analysis. The captured image is called “thermogram”. Infrared thermography is useful for detecting many building problems. For example, it can detect problems with the electrical system or heat loss such as leaks in the insulation of a building. Thermographers use infrared cameras to assess thermal anomalies in buildings from both inside and outside the house.

We can find devices that give only the results in images, without temperature measurement or on the contrary only the thermal measurements. Here are some machines used in the domain :
– Infrared thermometers : without contact, temperature measurement device, measuring only the thermal state.
– Thermal camera : measuring device for thermography. The thermal camera provides measurements with images.
– Thermal imager : thermal imaging device, provides images without measurements.
– Radiometer : device for measuring radiation flow (directional and partial flow).

What are the advantages?

This type of technique is useful in a variety of situations that would otherwise be very difficult to identify. Thermographic cameras can quickly determine defects in the pipe so that you can repair exactly where the problem is detected without having to destroy everything around it. The cameras can also detect heat loss, so they can detect insulation and ventilation problems. If the insulation has fallen out at the bottom of the wall and the top is empty, the camera can see the insulation without having to open the entire wall. Rodents, insects, or other pests can also be detected because they do not give off the same heat as the building materials. On the same basis, thermal imaging devices are very useful for detecting mold and rot. If you want to discover more about the advantages of having an inspector who offers this service, discover this section: Thermographic inspection.

Don’t hesitate to consult our experts before buying or selling a house, or if you have problems that are difficult to identify with the naked eye. Qualitam’s experts are always happy to help you achieve peace of mind in a safe home and to explain in detail the benefits of this advanced technology.

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