Infrared Scanning and Roof Systems

I’ve been talking a lot about using infrared scanning to locate roof leaks in the past months but with spring just starting and with all the storms that accompany it, I thought it would be a good time to answer a question about thermal imaging and types of roof systems.

Does Infrared imaging work on all types of roof systems?

The answer is mostly yes with the only real exception being roofs that employ masonry elements like terracotta tiles or pre-formed concrete tile as an outer (or top layer). Most roof systems use a series of layers applied to an insulation panel, or insulated roof deck and single ply materials like shingles. Built-up, layered or single ply roof systems provide the best targets for an infrared camera because they are in direct contact with the insulated component of the system allowing it to detect the any inconsistencies in the heat exchange rate between the roof and the evening air. Masonry roofing components hold the heat of the day much longer and release their heat at a much slower rate which often masks the rate of transfer from the insulation to the roof deck making wet areas harder to find.

Keep in mind that while masonry roofing materials do not lend themselves to infrared scans, my infrared cameras can be very effective in finding construction defects in masonry wall systems. If you’re wondering if Thermal Imaging can help you find a possible roof leak in your building or are considering adding Thermal Imaging to your yearly maintenance program, give me a call! Is it time to schedule your infrared inspection?

Interested in learning more? Call me at 803-328-2889 and let’s talk!

IR Infrared Services provides top quality thermographic service at a competitive price to commercial users in North Carolina and South Carolina. For more information, visit us on the web or follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/infraredscans. We are proud to offer the very best thermography services in North Carolina and South Carolina!

THERMAL IMAGING AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Overheated Electrical Systems are A Major Cause of Commercial Fires!

Are you prepared for fire? Did you know that one-third of all commercial fires are traced to electrical failure? A commercial building can have dozens of points where electrical wiring connects to supply apparatus and equipment and every one of those points can cause heat buildup. Junction boxes, electrical outlets, breaker panels and connections to equipment that need electricity to operate all have the potential to develop problems. Over time lug nuts that hold wiring in place and wire nuts used to connect two or more wires together can become loose or cracked causing dangerous heat to build up or even cause electrical sparks inside your walls. Add to that electrical equipment heating up because of worn bearings, drive shafts that are out of balance or terminal blocks that are cracked or dirty and you can see the potential for real trouble.

Thermal Imaging Can See What Can’t Be Seen!

With Thermal Imaging I can see through your walls, look behind electrical panels and inside your equipment to find those potential problems. By scanning your building and equipment I can develop an overall thermal picture of your location and then by looking at that picture point out the hot spots allowing you to have them repaired before the fire alarms begin to sound. A yearly Thermal Scan can be a powerful weapon in your maintenance and safety arsenal. Give me a call and let me show you how inexpensive it can be to unleash the power of thermal Imaging for your business. Is it time to schedule your infrared inspection?

Interested in learning more? Call me at 803-328-2889 and let’s talk!

IR Infrared Services provides top quality thermographic service at a competitive price to commercial users in North Carolina and South Carolina. For more information, visit us on the web or follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/infraredscans. We are proud to offer the very best thermography services in North Carolina and South Carolina!

Preventing Mold in Commercial Buildings

“MOLD!!!!!” It’s a word that can turn even the strongest heart into a trembling mess…..and for good reason. A mold problem can be very expensive to remedy and cause a number of health issues for you, your employees and customers. Thermal imaging can help you find out if you have a mold problem or if conditions exist in your building that can lead to mold development.

WHAT CAUSES MOLD TO GROW?

All mold needs to get a foothold on your property is moisture, heat and a dark place to get started. Modern buildings are full of construction materials that can make a wonderful home for mold; drywall, insulation, ceiling tiles and wood products all provide a porous surface for mold to attach.

Now we need a water source. There are two ways for water to get into a building; the most common way is through a roof leak or through gaps in the exterior caulking or chinking around windows or places where different types of building materials meet (i.e. brick and siding). Water can form inside the building itself due to lapses in the insulation blanket around your building or around HVAC ducts.

Moisture is introduced into the inside of every building simply because people are there. As we exhale, moisture is picked up by the air and rises with the heat. If your building is properly insulated that moisture is pulled back through the HVAC system and carried away. The problems start when the insulation has fallen out of place or is torn and the moisture comes into contact with surfaces that are either colder or warmer than the air temperature causing it to condensate and drip on to those building materials that I mentioned earlier.

HOW CAN THERMAL IMAGING HELP?

Thermal Imaging can locate areas that are prone to growing mold or where it may already have started by (1) Spotting the temperature differences caused by weaknesses in the insulation blanket, (2) Locating the temperature differences in wet and dry building materials, or (3) finding the areas where your building is losing conditioned air to the outside.

Remember, when it comes to the health of your building, "What you can't see, can hurt you!" Is it time to schedule your infrared inspection?

Interested in learning more? Call me at 803-328-2889 and let’s talk!

IR Infrared Services provides top quality thermographic service at a competitive price to commercial users in North Carolina and South Carolina. For more information, visit us on the web or follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/infraredscans. We are proud to offer the very best thermography services in North Carolina and South Carolina!

Protecting Your Investment From Insurance Claims

Can Infrared Scanning Protect You From Insurance Claims? The Surprising Answer!

We all know that insurance can bring great peace of mind…..at a price. We also know that avoiding claims and possibly lowering the amount of money we spend for that peace of mind is downright delightful. Whether you are a building owner or a General contractor building a commercial, industrial or institutional facility or bock multi-family building you know the importance of protecting your property as well as your financial health. Thermal imaging offers you an inexpensive tool to help with that protection and decrease your liability.

 Yearly Thermal scans can identify possible weaknesses in your building’s roof systems, insulation blanket and electrical systems; they can even help you to identify areas of potential mold colonies. If you’re leasing, a thermal scan can let your tenant know about possible dangers from over heating equipment he may have employed in your building. Thermal imaging can also be of service to the general contractor that is completing a new facility by giving you a new tool to use as part of your final inspection procedures.

Due Diligence?

I can hear you asking, “I’ve done my due diligence. Why should I spend another cent above and beyond?” Or “The county conducted their Final Inspection and I have my certificate of occupancy; that’s all I am required to do.”  Both statements are true but for just a little expense you CAN go above and beyond which could save you in both dollars and aggravation. A thermal scan not only informs you of trouble spots but could also lower you insurance rates. You can establish a history of going the extra mile to insure that your building is safe which could be invaluable in the case of a future lawsuit. Your lawyer will love you!

Interested in learning more? Call me at 803-328-2889 and let’s talk!

IR Infrared Services provides top quality thermographic service at a competitive price to commercial users in North Carolina and South Carolina. For more information, visit us on the web or follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/infraredscans. We are proud to offer the very best thermography services in North Carolina and South Carolina!