A critical component to any effective mold investigation is an accurate assessment of moisture sources in the home.  However, traditional moisture meters rely on the use of either destructive, penetrating moisture meters that puncture holes into building finishes, or less accurate non-penetrating surface moisture meters. Infrared thermal imaging (“IR”) provides an excellent alternative to traditional moisture meters.  Through the use of specially-designed infrared cameras, indoor environmental professionals (IEP) can quickly and efficiently identify a range of building deficiencies, without the need for destructive testing that can result in costly repairs.

Infrared cameras use the concept of emissivity to detect the amount of infrared radiation emitted (“reflected”) by a building component.  The higher the temperature of the building component, the more infrared radiation it emits.  Special software inside the camera can convert emissivity readings to surface temperature readings, and a live image of the building component being measured is displayed on an LCD screen.  This provides tremendous information for the investigator, and often permits the IEP to locate “hidden” mold reservoirs by showing wet building components.

Using an IR camera, the IEP can locate numerous sources of moisture intrusion.  Roof assessments can be conducted from both a roof-top and attic space to identify leaking roof components, which may lead to attic or living space mold damage.  The building envelope can be inspected to pin-point moisture intrusion into the home through windows, doors, and even exterior finishes such as brick or stucco (which are difficult and costly to assess using traditional moisture meters).  Inside the home, the IEP can use IR cameras to efficiently identify wet areas from plumbing leaks, ice damming, slab and foundation cracks, moisture condensation, and other sources.  IR cameras can also be utilized to locate areas in the home that may have insufficient or missing batt or blown-in insulation; few other tools exist that do this as well or easily as IR.  Infrared imaging provides a safe, effective way to evaluate electrical components as well, such as overloaded circuits or faulty outlets.

Indoor environmental investigators are often posed with considerable challenges that make locating hidden moisture sources and mold reservoirs extremely difficult.  If not found promptly, the health of building occupants may be negatively affected. Infrared thermal imaging helps identify these reservoirs quickly, efficiently, and in a cost-effective manner.

 

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