Use of Infrared Thermography in Testing Building Envelopes

By Alan Trauger

Moisture in building materials can destroy structural integrity and nurture mold. The first step in moisture problem remediation is to quickly and accurately locate and remove sources of moisture. Infrared cameras instantly show you what’s wet and what’s dry. IR can instantly find the ultimate source with little or no physical disassembly of the premises and minimal disturbance of inhabitants.

Infrared thermography can provide remarkable, nondestructive information about construction details and building performance. Often the problems, as well as their causes and consequences can not be seen until after costly damage has already been done. Typically, at this stage or point the only recourse may be extensive and costly reconstruction.

The major building applications for IR technology are:

• Excessive Energy Use due to missing or damaged insulation, or insulation that is performing inadequately. It is essential to know the type of insulation in the building and construction details, including how the insulation was installed.

• Air Leakage Locations can be excessive and account for up to half of the energy consumed to condition buildings. Adequate air exchange is essential to the health of a building. Sometimes the root cause of excessive leakage can be poor design and or construction which allows air to move across the thermal perimeter.

• Moisture intrusion and damage due to leaks or condensation especially walls and roof areas. Building designs and technologies have caused tighter thermal envelopes and have trapped moisture in impermeable building materials.

• Poor HVAC distribution or performance caused by design and installation problems resulting in excessive energy use and uncomfortable buildings.

• Finding Termite Infestations

• Verification of Construction Details or structural performance. Great success has been accomplished to verify proper reinforcement in concrete masonry buildings, as well as concrete filled grouted cells.

• Water leaks from pipes in either walls or slabs

* Delamination of Fascade Materials

• “Sick Building Syndrome”, mold growth and health related issues.

• Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) construction is particularly susceptible to water intrusion causing mold growth and wood decay problems.

A great value of infrared thermography is that it enables building owners, architects, contractors, and inspectors to locate problems, verify building performance, and validate solutions. The primary return on investment in building thermography is gaining a higher level of assurance that the building will perform as intended and occupants will be more comfortable, often at a lower cost.

Alan Trauger is a Building Consultant that performs property condition assessments for residential and commercial properties. An experienced and knowledgeable problem solver, understanding processes and issues related to building structures and their systems. An expert witness, trainer, and educator. To view past newsletters on construction and buildings: http://newsletters.alantrauger.com/
To review authors bio, qualifications, and interest in receiving future email newsletters: http://www.alantrauger.com

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