Find problems that are invisible to a conventional home inspection.
Thermal imaging, also called an infrared home inspection, uses a special infrared camera to detect differences in temperature across a surface. Thermal imaging is incredibly effective because it allows us to see problems that are difficult or impossible to see with the naked eye. Problems that would go unnoticed in a normal home inspection. Using the equipment and interpreting the data requires a properly trained and certified inspector.
Thomas Moore, from True Home Inspections LLC, has become a Certified Residential Thermographer (CRT). The CRT certification is nationally recognized by the American Society of Home Inspectors and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Home inspectors successfully completing the CRT certification requirements learn about the science of thermal imaging, methods of heat transfer, and thermal capacities. They also learn about the limitations of thermal imaging and how to avoid false readings. By becoming a Certified Residential Thermographer, a home inspector can provide a more thorough home inspection by detecting electrical, moisture, energy issues, and even pests, such as termites and bees, which the naked eye can't see.
We can find problems before you can see them, when they're significantly less expensive to fix. By the time you can see the problem yourself, the damage would be much more extensive. Thermal imaging is especially useful for discovering the following problems:
An inefficient home means a constant drain on your wallet. Energy loss can occur due to poor or missing insulation, poor construction, or even flaws in the home's design. We'll check for indications of energy loss through walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, the attic, and more. We also check for damaged or malfunctioning radiant heating, if present. We'll make sure your home isn't needlessly burning through cash.
Thermal imaging is one of the most effective methods for detecting moisture problems. We can often find thermal evidence of moisture penetration from the roof or basement, as well as plumbing leaks, before they've caused enough damage to be visible to the naked eye. Since thermal imaging does not detect moisture directly, we use a moisture meter for verification.
Naturally, thermal imaging is very effective for finding hot spots inside a home. These can range from electrical issues to insulation problems or dangerously hot pipes (which pose a burn risk to children). Electrical problems are of particular concern, as they indicate a wiring problem of an overloaded component, which poses a major fire risk.
True Home Inspections provides thermal (infrared) imaging for home inspections in the Triangle Area, Wake Forest, Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Garner, Knightdale, Rolesville, Youngsvill, and surrounding communities. If you have any questions, give us a call at (919) 608-4893 or send us an email.