During the inspection of a building, our approach occasionally incorporates the use of thermal scanning, which differs from the complete thermography of a building. This process is implemented when signs of disorder are present or in specific situations, such as a cathedral ceiling, which prevent us from observing the attic. The use of thermal cameras is conditioned by external circumstances, notably the temperature differential between the interior and exterior of the building. A sufficient temperature gap is crucial for detecting anomalies such as a lack of insulation, among other problems that could be identified through thermal imaging during this punctual but significant inspection in the life of a building.
Thermal cameras, also known as thermal detectors, operate by detecting the heat emitted by objects. Unlike traditional cameras that capture visible light, thermal cameras perceive infrared radiation, which is emitted by all objects based on their temperature. This technology allows for the visualization and measurement of temperature variations on the surface of objects without direct contact, thus offering a thermal image where hot and cold zones are distinguished by different colors or shades of gray.
Thermal detectors are divided into two main categories: those with direct detection, which require cooling to increase their sensitivity, and those with thermal detection, which use microbolometers to detect temperature differences without the need for cooling. The latter, thanks to their ability to convert variations in electrical resistance due to the absorption of thermal energy into images, are particularly suited for integration into portable devices such as the thermal cameras used during our inspections.
The operation of a thermal camera begins with the capture of the infrared energy emitted by the surfaces of objects. This energy is then focused by an optical lens onto an infrared detector. The detector converts the energy into an electrical signal, which is processed by a microprocessor to generate a visible image on the camera’s screen. This image, called a thermogram, reveals the temperature variations of the observed scene, thus allowing for the detection of structural anomalies or insulation defects not visible to the naked eye.
By integrating thermal scanning into our inspections, we leverage this advanced technology to provide a more in-depth analysis of properties, identifying potential problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. However, the accuracy of this method depends heavily on environmental conditions and the operator’s skill in correctly interpreting the thermal images. This is why our team is trained to effectively use this technology, taking into account its limitations and ensuring that conditions are favorable for a successful thermal inspection.
An infrared camera is a tool that a building inspector can use at every inspection. It is not infallible, but it can help the inspector to locate problems that they might not be able to see with the naked eye.
