Carl Brahe
Infrared Imagery, or thermography, can seem to look into and through building structure and in a way this is true. Infrared cameras detect surface temperature of most materials. Some, like glass, reflect infrared light making it difficult to make thermal images of these materials. Heat travels through most building materials and affect the surface temperature. If a wall, or roof, has moisture in it the surface temperature will vary according to the amount of moisture behind it. Commonly used IR cameras detect temperature differentiation of .15°F and display the results in varying colors or monotone shades. Some common uses in commercial building inspections are shown below.
Water heater half full of sediment from mineral deposits
Contractor tried to cheat on insulation install in block wall thinking no one would be able to see
Roof leak seen from inside
Radiant heat lines in bathroom floor
Water leaking through foundation
Loos connection overheating in breaker panel
Heat bleeding onto the cold night air from all over house
Missing insulation in cathedral ceiling