What is an Infrared scan?
During a home inspection, an infrared scan (or thermal imaging) is an advanced, non-invasive technology that allows the inspector to show buyers things about the home that can't be revealed using conventional inspection methods.
Why should a home inspection include an Infrared Scan?
Buyers can use all the help they can get in the buying process. Infrared thermal imaging cameras spot small, but key changes in temperature in different areas of a house, identifying problematic areas that the naked eye never could, and some that a visual inspection could only hypothesize.
What are the most common issues identified during an Infrared Scan?
Moisture is one of the biggest issues that gets revealed during the inspection which includes hidden sources of mold, roof leaks, and areas conducive to termites and pests. Electrical problems can be revealed, heat & energy loss, foundation cracks, structural concerns, missing insulation, ventilation glitches and more. Let's go through a couple of typical problems we find with the camera, which can potentially save the home buyer a bundle of money.
Roof Leaks/Water Intrusion
Water will typically give up its heat at a slower rate than its surrounding roofing materials because of its high thermal capacity, with just one image any areas that have accumulated moisture can be seen.
Electrical Faults
Identifying the source of electrical problems quickly and accurately will allow for solutions to be reviewed before closing, preventing possible injury (life safety) and property damage. The image will have bright yellow, orange or red patterns wherever there is a defect to the electrical system, making it easy to spot and put on the list of repairs.
Structural Defects
Scanning walls, floors and ceilings with the camera will show differences in temperature and conductivity which reveal possible missing structural components and potentially damaged portions of these components.