Infrared Camera Thermal Imaging
Infrared light or thermography is the use of an infrared imaging and measurement camera to “see” and “measure” thermal energy that’s emitted from an object. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot.
In a construction setting, builders and their crews can use infrared images to locate the places where heat is leaking from a building, and identify ways to improve their installation of windows, door, insulation and airsealing.
Power Smart worked recently with Certified Energy Advisors and select builders to test the usefulness of infrared technology. The results were immediate. As soon as the builder saw the accompanying photo from their project, they identified that a quick fix of caulking the sill plate/floor intersections would improve comfort and reduce energy costs for the eventual homebuyer. Other opportunities were found around windows and doors and by top plates in exterior corners.
If you’re looking for inexpensive ways to improve the energy efficiency of your next build, consider utilizing infrared imaging at the pre-drywall stage of your model home or first build. The discoveries you make can be communicated to your crews and implemented throughout the project.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Infrared Thermography?
Infrared Thermography is a technique that uses specialized imaging equipment to create visual images of heat. This is especially useful to determine the energy efficiency of a building and to detect problems that cause heat and energy loss.
What does Thermography show?
An infrared camera detects heat being emitted from the surface of any object. Thermography is a very effective way to see areas of missing or low insulation, moisture intrusion and to find the source of uncomfortable areas in your home due to air leakage.
Will Thermography damage my house?
Walls and ceilings are examined in a non-invasive and non-destructive way to discover where heat loss or moisture build-up is occurring. No holes have to be drilled to get a reasonable impression of what is happening within the building structure.
Why should I use Enersaver Solutions Inc. as my Thermography testing provider?
Combining infrared Thermography with other techniques can produce better results. Using a blower door to create air pressure changes in the building is the only effective way to look for air leakage which can be a major reason for heat loss and moisture problems. Enersaver Solutions Inc. is one of the few local companies that combine the infrared camera and a blower door during a Thermography evaluation to give the best information. Our trained infrared technician uses an FLIR infrared camera specifically designed for building applications. The blower door and other tools such as moisture meters are used depending on the problem being investigated.
When should I schedule my appointment?
For most building problems, the best time to image is during the colder months when there is a significant difference between inside and outside temperatures, which makes for clear and crisp images. During the warmer months, Thermography is more effectively performed at night when temperatures naturally drop.
What does Thermography cost?
VerdaTech offers different packages to fit individual situations and needs. We are able to offer the service in combination with the Eco Energy evaluation or as a standalone service. Prices will vary according to individual requirements and desired tests.