A professional home inspection can save you thousands of dollars before purchasing a new home. Most often, it’s the issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye that can cause the most costly damage. There are a variety of techniques I use, but when it comes to spotting problems hidden behind walls, I have to rely on my technology.
As a professional home inspector in Edmonton, I make it a priority to invest in up-to-date technology that helps me identify issues that aren’t always visible to the human eye (and may not be covered under a home warranty). One of the most important tools I use in every inspection is my infrared thermal imaging camera.
Before we dive into exactly what this tool does, it’s important to keep in mind that I use thermal imaging as a supplemental tool for home inspections. There are many other methods for testing and observation that cover more ground, but thermal imaging provides a unique second look at high-risk areas.
What is an Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera?
Thermal imaging cameras scan a specific area of a home and provide an image of temperature distribution across a surface. They do this using electromagnetic waves. Our eyes are able to detect visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum, but thermal cameras can detect additional infrared radiation light on the spectrum.
Why Do Home Inspectors Use Thermal Imaging?
The camera allows me to conduct thorough but non-invasive home inspections. This means I won’t be modifying or taking apart anything in the home. The camera allows me to look into walls, foundations, and other hard-to-see areas without destroying anything.
Here are four examples of issues I can spot with a thermal camera that would’ve otherwise gone undetected:
1. Drafty spots around windows and doors.
Leaky seals around windows and doors are often major culprits for temperature loss and increased energy bills in your home. The infrared camera can take a snapshot of your windows and doors to see where cold air is seeping in. In some cases, this is a quick fix that simply requires seals. In other cases, it might require new doors and windows, which can be a major investment.
2. Poor or uneven insulation in attics and walls.
Insulation in attics and walls can break down over time. There also may be unusual activity that disturbs insulation, such as mice tunneling through it. My camera allows me to see all the breaks in the insulation, where they are, and whether they’re a major issue.
3. Cracks in the foundation of a home
Cracks in the foundation of a home can lead to major problems in the future, and they are more common than you might think. In finished basements, I can use the thermal imaging camera to scan the walls and floors, identifying any areas where there may be cracks letting cool air and water seep through.
4. Leaks, moisture, or condensation that may lead to mold growth
Whenever I’m inspecting a home, one of my top priorities is checking for mold growth. Since I’m not able to physically check every inch of a home for mold, I often use my camera to scan for cold spots that may indicate water, moisture, or condensation. These areas are primed for mold growth (if there isn’t already mold growing there), so dealing with them sooner rather than later can prevent mold from growing and spreading.
How Much Does Thermal Imaging Cost in Edmonton?
Thermal imaging is a part of every home inspection I provide, and it’s included in the cost. On your inspection report, you’ll see images taken from the cameras as well as descriptions of the diagnosis and recommended solutions.
If you’re worried about a particular area of your home, or if you’re about to purchase a new home, get in touch to schedule your home inspection today with one of Edmonton’s most trusted home inspection companies. I’ll be happy to show you how the equipment works as well as examples of past inspections and infrared photos.
