Why is Thermal Imaging also called Thermography?
Thermography is the use of a thermal imaging camera which detects infrared radiation in which the camera then converts the infrared radiation to a visual image called a Thermogram. The thermogram is a visual image which represents temperatures of the surface being viewed.
Thermal cameras measure surface temperature differences of the element being examined. Thermal cameras do not see through walls or other building elements.
Surface temperatures being tested are influenced by the presence of things inside walls such as termites, moisture or other materials. This may allow identification and presence of termites to wall cavity areas, moisture or other anomalies present in building structures.
The use of thermography for detection of air leakage, moisture leaks and defective or missing insulation are common applications in the building assessment. When conducting a thermal imaging survey of buildings, your consultant is looking for thermal anomalies which may relate to a building defect.
Why we are your first choice
Our consultants are highly trained in thermography and we are one of the pioneers, and industry leaders in using this technology for building and termite inspections.
Two of our consultants were the first Australians to be accredited, as Building Science thermographers. Two of our Thermographers have had training with the – University of Melbourne Private training which meets compliance for to ISO 9712 and ISO 18436.7.
Infrared Cameras are an effective tool of choice for leading professionals in the detection of:
Termite activity
- With standard pest inspections, reporting is restricted to those areas visible with the naked eye.
- Moisture meters are used; however, it is not practical to check all wall or ceiling surfaces with a moisture meter.
- Thermal image camera inspections can extend the inspection boundaries using non-invasive, environmentally friendly technology.
- Termite activity gives off heat and moisture, which may be detectable on wall surfaces using a thermal camera.
- Most termite activity is hidden in wall cavities and is not visible until termites reach the roof void, particularly if the structure is on a concrete slab.
- By the time termites reach the roof void they have usually caused considerable damage to the wall framing timbers on the way up.
Moisture problems
Roofs, showers, penetrating damp to wall and ceilings which may relate to wood decay damage to timbers.
Waterproofing problems
- Below ground rooms and balconies.
- Source of moisture – associated with hazardous mould and fungi.
- Insulation and thermal defects – including missing or poorly installed installation.
- Leaking pipes – Infrared is extremely effective in locating leaking pipes.
Electrical Problems
Elevated temperatures of meter board components can be scanned to check for potential failures.
Energy Assessment
A survey can be conducted to test for missing or poorly installed insulation. Identification of air leakage to the external envelope can be identified. Scans of solar voltaic panels can be checked for defects.
Structural defects
Identification of concealed structural elements or missing elements.
If you would like to know if thermal imaging or thermography can be used for a certain application, please contact our office for further details.
Image 1: Termites located to the wall around the window to the wall
Image 2: Heat loss to external envelope of an indoor heated pool complex.
Image 3: Water leakage to the ceiling from the 
upper-level bathroom shower