Q: What is thermal imaging?
A: Thermal imaging or infrared thermography is a process that detects radiation in objects. Infrared radiation is emitted by all objects. The amount of radiation emitted by an object increases with temperature, therefore thermography allows us to see variations in temperature and produce images of that radiation called thermal images.
Q: Does thermal imaging produce radiation like an x-ray?
A: No, the thermal imaging camera does not emit any radiation above a normal camera or other electronic device. It does detect thermal radiation in objects that all objects give off including people and animals.
Q: What is thermal imaging used for?
A: It is used for moisture detection, heat loss, air leakage and detecting many other defects in buildings that will show up on a thermal image but the naked eye cannot see. In addition, it can be used to analyse mechanical, plumbing, process and electrical systems without destruction pin pointing a known problem or predicting a future problem.
Q: Why is thermal imaging used for building mold detection?
A: Thermal imaging is a fast, non-invasive method to discover moisture intrusion within a building. The image analysis will help us to better identify materials with moisture problems even when hidden. It also detects areas with air leaks or poor insulation that may allow condensation to form. Since most indoor moisture problems will result in mold, it is important to detect all elevated moisture levels in a building.
Q: What kind of equipment is used in thermal imaging?
A: Specialized camera equipment called a thermal imaging camera or an infrared camera is used to take the thermal images. Other measuring devices are used to set certain parameters and record environmental conditions during the survey. The images are analysed with thermal imaging software by a Certified Thermographer to produce a report.
Q: How do I book a Thermal Imaging Survey with ABM Environmental?
A: Call us at (604) 568-5177 or fill out the Online Assessment Form.