Infrared Inspections
Gold Key offers thermal imaging inspections to help home buyers identify potential problems and verify the performance of certain components that might not be apparent in a standard home inspection. Our inspectors are infrared certified and use specialized equipment to measure heat energy.
How is Infrared Technology used in a Home Inspection?
Infrared (IR) is a safe and non-invasive technology that can help home inspectors identify potential problems that may not be visible to the naked eye. IR cameras detect temperature differences, which can indicate the presence of moisture, air infiltration, pest infestation, and other issues. Home inspectors can then use this information to further investigate these potential problems.
What types of problems can a home inspector detect with an IR camera?
Water Intrusion & Moisture
- Roof leaks
- Plumbing leaks
- Wet basements
Air Infiltration
- Insulation gaps
- Air leaks
- Penetration in ceiling (ie. Smoke detectors, ceiling light fixtures)
- Weather stripping around windows and doors
- Wall switches
- Attic access
- Hot spots in attic
Components
- Heated floors
- Heating systems
- Electrical problems
Thermal Imaging Limitations
Although thermal imaging is a far better diagnostic tool than the naked eye, it does not guarantee 100% accuracy. Further testing or evaluation will be necessary and, sometimes, removal or destruction of components may be required to validate findings.
- Thermal imaging measures the surface temperature and thermal distribution of solid objects.
- Infrared cameras use heat not x-rays to detect potential issues. The cameras cannot see behind walls or other components in a home.
- An inspector who uses thermal imaging must understand the limitations of thermography as well as the importance of preparing a home for proper testing. An inspector must also be able to interpret the images. Inspectors who are Infrared Certified have had the proper training.