Advantages of Thermal Imaging for Building Envelope Inspection

Infrared (IR) thermal imaging is the measurement of surface temperatures. However, to the trained eye it is much more than that. Thermal images, when analyzed by an expert, can provide valuable insight to many problems in a building that would otherwise be difficult to identify or diagnose. Three common types of deficiencies that thermal imaging can be used to assess are water infiltration, air leakage, and insulation.

With the advent of drone technology, large areas can be scanned all at once during a building envelope inspection. IEI possesses a drone capable of thermal imaging, and Trey Thomas PE, Project Manager with IEI has a sought-after FAA-issued daylight waiver in his name that allows him to fly the drone during the window of time where hot spots are most visible. Trey has used the thermal imaging capabilities of the drone to great results, saying that it has improved his on-site efficiency many times over. Additionally, the drone footage can conveniently be brought back to the office for further study/analysis.

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Innovative Engineering Inc. has specialized in building envelope inspection for 25 years. IEI’s engineers have extensive experience with various methods of inspection. Additionally, their Certified Remote Pilots comply with FAA Part 107, and also hold a daylight operations waiver which allows them to fly at night, maximizing the effectiveness of thermal imaging. If you feel that it is time to address any problems with your building envelope, give IEI a call today. They will be happy to show you how spending pennies on engineering can save you dollars on construction and maintenance.