Thermal Imaging During Gainesville Commercial Inspection

Thermal imaging is a great tool to use for a Gainesville commercial inspection to look for anomalies that cannot be easily identified by a visual only assessment. Thermal cameras use color schemes to show differences in the surface temperatures of materials and objects they the sensors are pointed at. Using this technology, areas can be identified that have temperature anomalies that are commonly associated with water and air issues. Localized issues have commonly been identified using thermal imaging that were not able to be seen visually due to a variety of reasons. For example, we inspected a retail space last year and after completing our visual assessment, we ran thermal imaging and was able to see an anomaly on the ceiling at the drop tiles. Further investigation revealed a duct opening that was not cut in the ceiling tile and was leaking conditioned air into the un-conditioned space above. The area was not visibly damaged and without thermal imaging, we would not have seen this issue. Here are some of the most significant areas we use thermal imaging on our Gainesville area commercial inspections.

Electrical Assessments

Inspection of electrical panels and systems can be very hazardous to inspectors. High voltage electricity can cause significant injury and death. Thermal imaging has aided in making electrical inspections safer by being able to observe temperature anomalies in electrical panels. Overheating breakers are a common as well as overheating conductors. Electrical components have temperature rating. For example, modern conductors are rated to 90 C. Overheating can result in damage and/or electrical fires. Using thermal imaging, we can safely inspect these systems for overheating.

HVAC and Ductwork Thermal Imaging Assessments

Thermal imaging on a Gainesville commercial inspection is very useful for HVAC systems such as in the example we already mentioned. All exposed ductwork is scanned with a thermal camera to identify areas where conditioned air is leaking out of the ductwork. This is common at deteriorated seams in plenums. Further, thermal imaging can also be used to show where a builder or remodeler did not cut the drywall for a supply grill. These locations show up as hot or cold spots on walls or ceilings. While it is uncommon to find a missing supply duct not opened, it has happened and the mixture of cool, conditioned air in hot, humid attics has been known to result in microbial growth.

Plumbing Assessments

One of the major benefits to thermal imaging during a commercial inspection is the identification of water issues. Water that is currently leaking will quickly show up on a thermal camera because fo the rapid heating or cooling of the materials the water is in contact with. In-wall plumbing leaks, water heater leaks, plumbing supply, fixture, or drain leaks under sinks are all common finds with thermal imaging. While some of these issues can be identified visually, we’ve found leaks on downstairs ceilings more than once that were not visually evident.

Thermal Imaging Roof Assessments

As we all know, old roofs can leak. One of the best times to perform a thermal imaging assessment of ceiling and attic areas is right after a strong rain event. Much like for plumbing, water from rook leaks will show up on a thermal camera quickly if recent. These assessment are beneficial when there are high ceilings, attic spaces, and areas where roof slopes meet walls (common areas for water intrusion).

Energy Efficiency Assessments

Energy efficiency standards have continued to increase of the years. Using thermal imaging, we can detect locations where exterior air is leaking into the building. Areas around windows and doors are common for drafts. Further, missing insulation over attic access covers and walls and ceilings will commonly display on a thermal camera. Since insulation can be difficult to see visually, especially in walls, using thermal can be very beneficial. Thermal camera are a key tool to performing an energy audit!

While we work with large corporate clients, our primarily client base is local business owners and small business. As business owners, your goal is to make a smart financial investment in your company. Our goal is to help you by providing all the information we can to help you assess your investment and plan for future costs. As Florida, and particularly Gainesville and Alachua County, continue to grow, Greenwood Building Inspection and Consulting will be here to provide the most thorough and detailed commercial building property inspections to all our clients throughout North Florida.

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All Commercial Building Property Inspections Are Completed To The Standards of Practice Outlines by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association.