In this paper learn the findings of an investigation about a very different—and unusual—thermal pattern discovered on windows in the home of one of the authors. The cause is related to the loss of some of the insulating argon gas installed in the window during manufacturing. The authors also discovered the problem was not uncommon for certain types of windows and as they age the issues usually become more pronounced and, in some cases, result in a total failure (implosion) of the window.

When you consider which infrared camera specifications are most important to the building thermographer, thermal sensitivity and resolution are often at the top of the list…and rightfully so. Aside from focus, these two fixed equipment specifications have the greatest impact on the quality of your thermal image. So when buying an infrared camera, it is important to make sure both are sufficient for your needs and applications.

Thermal imaging is successfully used to help identify potential moisture problems in low-slope roofs. This paper will address the various reasons for inspecting a roof, the conditions needed, how an infrared inspection works, and the types of thermal patterns detected. The limitations of the technology as well as alternative test methods including aerial IR inspections are also covered. Conditions permitting, a qualified operator who follows proper inspection standards is able to evaluate a low-slope roof for moisture quickly and efficiently with infrared.

This paper will look at the issue of the methodologies for detection of the presence of moisture and determination of the various sources from which it accumulates in building assemblies. The end objective for IRT based moisture detection inspections is not to just identify that moisture is present but to determine its extent and source. Accurate assessment of the source(s) and root cause of the moisture is critical to the development of a permanent solution to the problem.

This paper will discuss the limitations of utilizing thermal imaging as a building diagnostic tool, the appropriate and separate methodologies that should be employed for heat, air and moisture deficiencies, the various standards and protocols should be followed, and the complementary quantitative and verification tools that should be used in conjunction with thermography. This paper will try to be as subjective as possible by referencing Canadian and International standards related to building inspections using thermography. This includes historical, current and in-progress standards from National Master Specifications of Canada, ASTM, RESNET and ISO.

Thermal imaging is not just a cold-weather tool that is only used during the winter. Great images and valuable data can be captured year-round, especially during the summer months, and in warm-weather climates, where energy efficiency concerns are also just as prevalent. Thanks to a continuous improvement in the quality and sensitivity of infrared cameras on the market, inspections are also possible during the “off season” of spring and fall when weather conditions are less than ideal or when the recommended temperature parameters of accepted industry standards are not being met. This paper will address how to approach using IR during warm weather conditions or when temperature differences were seemingly less than adequate.

The structures we live and work in are susceptible to quality and performance problems during construction and maintenance that can impact performance and may, in some cases, render them dangerous. Infrared thermography can provide remarkable, nondestructive information about construction details and building performance. This paper discusses the numerous applications for the technology currently being used to inspect building envelopes. These include validation of structural details, verification of energy performance (conduction and air leakage), location of moisture intrusion, and the identification of structural and system degradation of roofs and facades.

Using infrared to help locate moisture problems in buildings, while effective in the right conditions, can be a challenging application for a thermographer. The moisture in question within a structure could be at the surface or, even more difficult, interstitial, making detection close to impossible in certain situations. Additionally, an infrared camera alone is not able to detect and confirm the presence moisture (or mold for that matter). Instead it is used to locate thermal patterns that may be associated with the presence of moisture. It is the task of correlating that thermal signature with a moisture meter where infrared imaging brings the greatest benefit to thermographers conducting moisture investigations. In order to do that successfully, a thermographer needs to understand what conditions are required and the types of patterns they are likely to encounter.

Thermal imaging is an essential tool for anyone involved with home weatherization. This paper covers how infrared is utilized to inspect residential homes for heat loss and gain, outlining how crews can use it during the audit, while at the job site and for quality assurance. Also covered is how infrared, when used with a blower door, can provide home performance professionals with a comprehensive assessment of a building’s thermal performance, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively. Featured too is information on what type of thermal imager one should consider for this field and the specifications to consider when purchasing a system.