What is Thermal Imaging?
Infrared cameras see very small variations in temperature, in a range that is not visible
to the human eye. This technology allows us to inspect in superior detail and answer
questions rather than assume or estimate the condition of your home.
Why is it important to you and your inspection?
Until now, a home inspector could only report on what they see, which can be thought
of as about 33% of a house. That leaves a lot of possible problems uncovered. Infrared
imaging captures an entirely different spectrum of information not visible to the human
eye. This adds approximately 33% more information to you as a buyer and that's
extremely valuable in your decision to purchase a safe and comfortable home for your
family. That remaining 33% can only be found by completely removing drywall and
flooring to visually inspect and test every hidden component of a home. One day a new
technology may be available to see this, and you can be sure we'll be the first to have it.
Can anyone do infrared thermal imaging?
A common misconception in thermal imaging is that the camera does all the work.
Unfortunately unless you are certified as a thermographer and trained to identify thermal
anomalies most of the issues that the camera sees will go undetected.
Our inspectors are certified level 1 thermographers and registered with the American
Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) SNT-TC-1A(2006) www.asnt.orgLet's look at some pictures that really describe this better than words:
What is missing here? No insulation between the studs
This panel appears to be fine. A dangerously overheating circuit
Nothing to see here? Except for a substantial roof leak.
Naked eye sees nothing wrong. The IR camera sees a leak.
Heated tile is a great luxury. And you can see that it is working.
BC House Reports