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Essential uses of Infrared Thermography

1. Helping to source water intrusion from within walls, ceilings, floors, and other substrates in conjunction with other test methodologies.
2. Assists in identifying potential locations of water leaks at interior finishes.

In our case, performing Infrared Thermography Scans during one of our tests is most essential in sourcing water intrusion within building walls, flat areas, windows, and doors.  Thermal images can help, to an extent, identify potential water intrusion conditions by detecting thermal patterns and anomalies that may not be visible to the naked eye.

One benefit of performing an infrared scan during preliminary water intrusion testing is that it may help reduce the need for a more destructive, full-scale forensic investigation. However, infrared scanning should be treated as a screening tool only and not as conclusive proof of water intrusion. It is always recommended to have interior surfaces opened at locations experiencing active leakage. The more access openings provided, the better the opportunity for direct observation; however, at a minimum, some limited openings should be made so more reliable data can be collected during testing.

Disclaimer: The use of infrared technology does not replace the need for physical verification of water leakage. Physical observation is ultimately required for test personnel to determine whether a condition should be classified as active leakage. Infrared images are to be used as a supplemental tool only during the investigative testing process.

Destructive access is always a factor that should be considered during a water intrusion investigation. In many cases, it becomes less a question of if interior access will be needed, and more a question of when and to what extent.

The value of using infrared imaging during preliminary water intrusion testing is that it can assist in identifying thermal anomalies and narrowing a suspected leak path or affected area to a smaller region. This may help reduce the amount of overall destructive access needed during the investigation.

In simple terms, thermography is another useful tool utilized by our team during the testing process. However, thermal imaging has a known potential for false positives and false negatives and should never be relied upon as the only source of information when determining the presence, location, or source of water leakage, whether the suspected issue involves a surface, component, or concealed substrate condition.

For this reason, infrared imaging is best used in combination with controlled water testing, direct observation, site conditions, visual evidence, and, when appropriate, interior openings at active leakage areas.

What is Infrared Thermography?

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Infrared energy or radiation not visible to the human eye is emitted from everything. The infrared camera helps us to see these thermal images as it displays this infrared energy and variation in temperatures as color, within the camera.

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It’s the differences in color that allows us, the operators to see cooler temperature things like water within walls or warmer temperature things such as heat, in the case of electrical issues.

When Do I Need an Infrared Thermographic Scan

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As an alternative to the old methods of sourcing water intrusion issues which is simply a wait and see approach, the use of thermal imaging may cut down water intrusion sourcing by more than half the time it takes otherwise.  We prefer to use a hybrid style of testing that combines all of our tools and mixes in some pre-selected areas that have been opened in combination with our infrared cameras and moisture meters along with our exterior water spray equipment.

Before the use of infrared on water intrusion tests, one would have to either wait for the water to penetrate the interior of the building, or an operator would use a moisture meter alone to literally scan an entire area for elevated moisture readings.  Combining infrared scanning helps identify potential water intrusion as a

Infrared scans are a very helpful tool to aid in the visual observation process, especially when it comes to sourcing water intrusion. Some other areas where the use of infrared technology is helpful:

1. Identifying electrical hazards
2. Locating missing insulation in ceilings or walls
3. Air Leakage Testing for energy efficiency of a home

Are you Qualified?

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Our test managers and technicians are all versed in the uses of infrared technology, but more importantly, we are laboratory trained to utilize thermal imaging technology in conjunction with the use of our exterior spray equipment to source and identify potential leak locations.

How Do I Request for an Infrared Thermographic Test?

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It is already included with most Forensic Water Leak Detection Services, so you are covered.

When we test a home or building, it is standard operating procedure for our team to bring infrared cameras to assist with the testing process. No special request is necessary.

That said, we still recommend having some interior surfaces opened at areas experiencing active leakage. This allows for direct visual observation during testing and helps detect water sooner rather than waiting for water to travel through multiple concealed layers or building materials.

The more access openings provided, the better. At a minimum, limited and precise openings should be made at critical leak areas. Infrared scanning can then be used as a helpful screening tool to review adjacent areas and support the overall testing process.

How Do I Contact You For Los Angeles Infrared Thermography Inspections

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WIS is available to perform infrared water intrusion testing throughout the entire State of CA in addition to AZ and NV.  Be sure to give us a call for your project.