Unveil Hidden Building Issues with Thermal Imaging Surveys
When it comes to maintaining the health and efficiency of your building, thermal imaging surveys are an invaluable tool. These surveys utilise infrared technology to detect temperature variations, revealing hidden issues that are invisible to the naked eye. From identifying energy losses to spotting water leaks and structural defects, thermal imaging surveys provide a comprehensive diagnostic solution.
We have over 15 years of experience carrying out premium building thermographic surveys throughout England and Wales in support of industrial and commercial applications, our thermal imaging reports contain the required information to satisfy Construction and Insurance Companies, Facility Managers, Building Control and BREEAM Assessors.
Thermal Imaging Surveys to Commercial Buildings
Thermal imaging, also known as thermography, is a technique that captures infrared radiation emitted by objects. Unlike visible light, infrared radiation is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by thermal cameras. These cameras convert infrared radiation into an image that displays temperature variations, with different colours representing different temperatures. This allows for the identification of thermal anomalies that could indicate potential problems within a building, such as excess Heat Loss due to damaged insulation, moisture Intrusion due to water leaks, electrical Faults due to overheating electrical components and faulty wiring and Structural Defects due to compromised structural integrity.
Our thermal imaging surveys to commercial buildings, can provide extremely useful information about the thermal performance of the building envelope at minimal cost. We are the first port of call for many surveyors, if they need a thermal imaging defects survey.
An infrared survey can be undertaken to establish more than just heat loss; it can also be utilised for:
- Building energy efficiency – a heat loss thermal survey is essential as it identified where the biggest energy cost-savings can be made.
- Damp walls and ceilings and floors – water ingress, sources of dampness, leaks in flat roofs or roof lights.
- Water leaks – leaks in the buildings water systems.
- Thermal bridging areas – missing or ineffective insulation at door and window reveals, as well as door and window heads.
- Missing or damaged insulation – areas where poor workmanship leading to missing or damaged insulation causing cold spots within floors, walls and roofs.
- Air infiltration – cold draughts into the building through the building envelope that can excess draughts leading to an unpleasant environment for building occupants.
- Excess Air leakage paths – warm air escaping through the building envelope that wastes valuable energy or struggling to keep the building cool in summer.
Thermal Imaging House Surveys to Reduce Heat Loss
Our thermal imaging house surveys can provide extremely useful information about the thermal performance of your property. A thermal camera survey can be undertaken to establish more than just heat loss, it can also be utilised for:
- Energy efficiency – a heat loss thermal survey is essential as it identified where the biggest energy cost-savings can be made.
- Damp walls and ceilings and floors – water ingress, sources of dampness, leaks in flat roofs or via chimneys.
- Water leaks – leaks in under-floor heating systems or behind concealed pipework in walls, ceilings and floors.
- Thermal bridging areas – missing or ineffective insulation at door and window reveals
- Missing or damaged insulation – areas where poor workmanship leading to missing or damaged insulation causing cold spots.
- Air infiltration – cold draughts into the building through the building envelope that can excess draughts leading to an unpleasant environment.
- Air leakage paths – warm air escaping through the building envelope that wastes valuable energy.
BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys
Thermal imaging surveys have become a core component of BREEAM—the world’s leading environmental assessment and rating system for buildings. BREEAM establishes the benchmark for excellence in sustainable building design, construction, and operation. Both BREEAM New Construction and BREEAM Domestic Refurbishment programs acknowledge the importance of thermal imaging surveys, awarding credits for assessments conducted by a Level 2 certified thermographer.
For over a decade, APT Sound Testing has been providing professional BREEAM thermal imaging surveys to ensure insulation continuity in buildings. To meet the exacting standards of BREEAM, our infrared inspections are carried out by Level 3 certified thermographers, using state-of-the-art, high-resolution FLIR thermal imaging cameras to deliver precise and reliable results on every project.
BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys
Thermal imaging surveys have become a core component of BREEAM—the world’s leading environmental assessment and rating system for buildings. BREEAM establishes the benchmark for excellence in sustainable building design, construction, and operation. Both BREEAM New Construction and BREEAM Domestic Refurbishment programs acknowledge the importance of thermal imaging surveys, awarding credits for assessments conducted by a Level 2 certified thermographer.
For over a decade, APT Sound Testing has been providing professional BREEAM thermal imaging surveys to ensure insulation continuity in buildings. To meet the exacting standards of BREEAM, our infrared inspections are carried out by Level 3 certified thermographers, using state-of-the-art, high-resolution FLIR thermal imaging cameras to deliver precise and reliable results on every project.
What is Thermal Imaging?
Thermal imaging, also known as thermography, is a technique that captures infrared radiation emitted by objects. Unlike visible light, infrared radiation is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by thermal cameras. These cameras convert infrared radiation into an image that displays temperature variations, with different colours representing different temperatures. This allows for the identification of thermal anomalies that could indicate potential problems within a building, such as excess Heat Loss due to damaged insulation, moisture Intrusion due to water leaks, electrical Faults due to overheating electrical components and faulty wiring and Structural Defects due to compromised structural integrity.
Understanding Thermal Imaging Surveys
What is a Thermal Imaging Survey?
- Definition: Thermal imaging surveys use infrared cameras to capture temperature differences within a building. to ensure we only collect the best data, we only use the highest resolution and sensitise thermal imaging cameras.
- Purpose: They help identify anomalies such as heat loss, moisture intrusion, electrical faults, and structural defects.
- Technology: Infrared cameras detect infrared radiation emitted by objects, creating thermal images that reveal temperature variations within the building envelope.
Benefits of Thermal Imaging Surveys
- Non-Invasive: These surveys are non-destructive and non-invasive, allowing for thermal imaging inspections without damaging the building.
- Quick and Efficient: Thermal imaging provides instant results, making it a very time-efficient diagnostic tool.
- Comprehensive Analysis: They offer a detailed analysis of the building’s condition, highlighting areas that need attention, so targeted remedial works can be undertaken.
Top Reasons to Choose Our Thermal Imaging Surveys
- Accurate Detection: Identify hidden issues such as heat loss, moisture, and electrical faults with high precision.
- Energy Efficiency: Pinpoint areas of energy loss to improve insulation and reduce energy bills in your building.
- Preventive Maintenance: Detect potential problems before they escalate into costly repairs and catastrophic failure.
- Non-Invasive: Conduct thorough inspections without damaging the building structure.
- Improve Health & Safety – Inspections can be undertake without the need for mechanical access and working at height.
- Quick Turnaround: Receive detailed reports quickly, enabling timely targeted action.
- Certified Technicians: Our team consists of Level 3 certified professionals with extensive experience in thermal imaging.
- Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art high resolution infrared cameras for accurate diagnostics, along with bespoke thermal imaging software.
- Comprehensive Reports: Our detailed thermal imaging reports include hi resolutions thermal images, with severity rated defects and actionable recommendations.
- Cost-Effective: Save money in the long run by identifying issues early to reduce repair costs and improve energy efficiency.
- Customer Satisfaction: We prioritise customer satisfaction and strive to exceed your expectations with our services.
The Thermal Imaging Survey Process: What to Expect
Step 1: Initial Consultation
- Assessment: We begin with an initial consultation to understand your needs and assess your buildings requirements.
- Scheduling: Our team will work with you to schedule a convenient time for the survey, usually early morning before sunrise to prevent solar loading.
- Thermal Imaging Checklist: We always send out an informative checklist to help your site teams correctly prepare the building/s for the thermal survey.
Step 2: On-Site Survey
- Preparation: When we arrive at site, we will have a quick inspection of the building to make sure it’s ready for the inspection. Our technicians will also calibrate their cameras and set up their software in readiness for the survey.
- Survey: We will carefully conduct a comprehensive thermal imaging survey, capturing images of various areas within the building.
Step 3: Analysis and Reporting
- Analysis: The captured thermal images are carefully analysed to identify temperature anomalies.
- Report Generation: We generate a detailed report with thermal images and our findings.
Step 4: Actionable Recommendations
- Solutions: Based on the survey results, we provide actionable recommendations to address identified issues.
- Follow-Up Surveys: We offer follow-up services to ensure the effectiveness of the implemented solutions.
Common Issues Identified During Thermal Imaging Surveys
- Heat Loss: Gaps in insulation, poor seals around windows and doors, and structural weaknesses.
- Moisture Intrusion: Hidden water leaks, dampness in walls and ceilings, and roof leaks.
- Electrical Faults: Overheating electrical components, faulty wiring, and circuit overloads.
- Structural Defects: Cracks in walls, foundation issues, and compromised structural integrity.
Tips to Improve Building Efficiency and Safety
- Improve Insulation: Enhance insulation to prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency within the building envelope.
- Seal Gaps: Regularly inspect and seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings.
- Fix Water Leaks: Address moisture issues promptly to prevent mold growth and structural damage.
- Maintain Electrical Systems: Regularly inspect and maintain electrical systems to prevent faults and hazards. Also prevent critical asset failure.
- Monitor HVAC Systems: Ensure heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are functioning efficiently.
- Conduct Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic thermal imaging surveys every 6-12 months, to monitor building health.
- Upgrade Materials: Use high-quality building materials to enhance durability and efficiency.
- Implement Preventive Maintenance: Develop a preventive maintenance plan to address potential issues early and prevent catastrophic building failure.
- Educate Occupants: Raise awareness among occupants about energy-saving practices and building maintenance.
- Seek Professional Help: Rely on APT’s professionals with Level 3 thermal imaging certification, for accurate diagnostics and effective solutions.
Why thermal imaging can improve Health & Safety
Thermal imaging improves health and safety on site, by reducing the chance of falls from height etc:
- Remote Inspections from ground level: it is widely known that falls from height, is one of the biggest causes of serious accidents in the construction and maintenance industries. Thermal imaging allows for inspections to be conducted from the ground or other safe locations. This reduces the need for personnel to climb ladders, scaffolding, or use aerial lifts to inspect high or hard-to-reach areas.
- Identifying Issues Early: By detecting problems such as leaks, insulation failures, or electrical faults from a distance, thermal imaging can help plan maintenance activities more effectively by targeting the specific areas. This means that when working at height is necessary, it can be done with a clear plan and the right equipment, minimising time spent at height.
- Enhanced Safety Planning: The detailed thermal images provide valuable information that can be used to plan safer access to higher areas, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Frequent Monitoring: Regular thermal imaging surveys can be conducted without the need for scaffolding or other height access equipment, allowing for more frequent monitoring and early detection of potential issues.
By incorporating thermal imaging inspections into regular maintenance and inspection routines, organisations can reduce the need for undertaking extensive working at height surveys, thus reducing the chance of falls etc.
Recommended Building and Environmental Conditions
To enable us to undertake an accurate thermal imaging survey to your building, the building must be prepared as follows:
- All external doors, windows etc. must be closed throughout the survey.
- Temperature difference across building fabric >10°C at the time of the thermographic survey.
- Temperature difference across building fabric >5°C for 24hrs preceding the thermographic survey.
- The external envelope surfaces to be free from solar gain.
- No precipitation just prior to or during the thermographic survey.
- Wind speed to be less than 10mph during the thermography survey.
- Ensure all building envelope surfaces to be inspected are dry during the thermographic survey.
- Ensure there are no material stacked on floors, walls or ceilings during the survey.
Thermal Imaging Applications for Different Building Types
Thermal Imaging for Residential Buildings
In residential buildings, thermal imaging is used to identify insulation deficiencies, air leaks, and moisture problems. Homeowners can use thermal images to prioritize home improvement projects, ensuring that their homes are energy-efficient and safe. Thermal inspections can also be part of regular home maintenance, providing peace of mind and protecting the value of the property.
Thermal Imaging for Commercial Buildings
Thermal imaging plays a crucial role in maintaining the performance and safety of commercial buildings. It is used to inspect HVAC systems, electrical panels, and roofing systems. By identifying potential issues early, building managers can schedule maintenance and repairs to minimise disruptions and extend the lifespan of building systems.
Thermal Imaging for Industrial Facilities
In industrial facilities, thermal imaging is used to monitor critical equipment and machinery. It helps in detecting overheating components, insulation failures, and other issues that could lead to equipment failure or downtime. Thermal inspections contribute to the overall efficiency and safety of industrial operations.
Case Study: Improving Building Efficiency with Thermal Imaging
Background
A commercial building in London, England, was experiencing high energy bills and frequent complaints about indoor comfort from occupants, such as excess draughts and cold spots. The management suspected heat loss and their surveyor contacted us for a thermal imaging survey.
Survey Process
We conducted a comprehensive thermal imaging survey, focusing on identifying areas of heat loss and moisture intrusion through the building envelope i.e. walls, ceilings, floors and doors and windows.
Findings
The survey revealed significant heat loss through poorly insulated walls, ceilings and gaps around window and door frames. Also, a small leak was discovered within the roof.
Solutions Implemented
- Insulation Improvements: Enhanced insulation was installed in walls and ceilings.
- Sealing Gaps: Sealed gaps around windows and doors using high-quality materials.
- Roof Repairs: Addressed roof leak and improved roofing materials.
Results
The building’s energy efficiency improved significantly, leading to lower energy bills and enhanced indoor comfort for occupants, leading to much fewer complaints.
Why Choose APT for your Thermal Imaging Survey
There are many reasons why APT are chosen to undertake surveys for companies such as Mace and Public health England, here are just a few.
- Highly Qualified Thermographers: APT employs Level 3 certified thermographers, the highest level of certification available. This ensures that the surveys are conducted by experts with advanced training in predictive maintenance and inspection practices.
- Advanced Equipment: APT uses large format FLIR thermal imaging cameras with 45-degree lenses, providing high-resolution and sensitive imaging capabilities. This allows for the detection of even the smallest temperature variations, ensuring comprehensive and accurate results.
- Comprehensive Reports: APT provides detailed reports that include thermal indexing formulas for fault diagnosis, qualification, and severity grading. These easy-to-follow reports help in identifying and addressing issues effectively.
- Rapid Defect Detection: We have the experience to quickly identify hidden problems such as water leaks, moisture, electrical issues, and structural defects before they become major issues. Early detection allows for timely repairs, minimising disruption and costs.
- BREEAM Certification: APT’s thermal imaging surveys meet the requirements for BREEAM certification, which can be beneficial for building projects seeking sustainability credentials and credits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How often should I conduct a thermal imaging survey?
- A1: It is recommended to conduct a thermal imaging survey annually, or whenever you suspect issues such as heat loss or moisture intrusion.
Q2: What are the signs that I need a thermal imaging survey?
- A2: Common signs include high energy bills, frequent indoor comfort complaints, visible moisture or mold, and unexplained electrical issues.
Q3: How long does the thermal imaging survey process take?
- A3: The on-site survey typically takes a few hours, and you can expect the detailed report within a few days.
Q4: Are thermal imaging surveys safe?
- A4: Yes, thermal imaging surveys are non-invasive and safe for both occupants and building structures.
Q5: Can thermal imaging surveys detect all types of issues?
- A5: While thermal imaging surveys are highly effective in detecting heat loss, moisture, and electrical faults, they may need to be complemented with other diagnostic methods for a comprehensive assessment, such as our combined blower door/thermal imaging service.
Why you should use a Level 3 Thermographer
Highly qualified Level 3 thermographer’s usually produce better quality and more technically consistent inspections. Level 3 thermal engineers have the ability to troubleshoot, calibrate equipment, interpret data, and create reports.
It also allows our thermography engineers to develop bespoke inspection procedures and severity criteria for our clients, as well as interpreting relevant codes, and manage a client-based thermography program, including overseeing and providing training and testing, and calculating the return on investment for the program.
When you are employing a thermographer, you should check to see that they incorporate the high specifications possible for their inspections, firstly, are they certified to Level 3, and do they use large format (high sensitivity) FLIR thermal imaging cameras?
Their specification should include:
- Level 3 thermographic certification
- Level 3 qualified thermographers
- High resolution/sensitivity FLIR cameras with 45-degree lenses
Why you should use a Level 3 Thermographer
Why insurance companies request Infrared Surveys?
Many insurance companies require thermal imaging surveys for buildings, especially for electrical systems. These surveys help ensure that the building’s electrical systems are functioning properly and safely, which can reduce the risk of fires and other hazards.
Our thermal imaging reports have been set up to satisfy the requirements expected by insurance companies, facility managers and safety auditors. Our thermal imaging survey reports usually comprise of the following four sections:
- Introduction/Report Summary – This section provides details on the survey carried out along with summary of the overall findings.
- Main Body Report Pages – this section explains where faults/anomalies are identified, an individual report page is produced providing a description of the fault, its severity and recommended remedial action.
- Condition Monitoring Assessment – this section provides an understanding of condition of the building that was reported during previous surveys – an ongoing assessment if you will.
- Appendices – This section provide a checklist along with images of item inspected during the survey. This provides an auditable record of what was inspected, together with the building condition at the time of the survey.
The dynamic combination of Blower Door & Thermal Imaging
Not many people are aware of the importance of combined blower door and thermal imaging surveys to identify building defects. We are UKAS/ATTMA accredited to undertake air tightness testing, and our thermographers are trained to Level 3.
Combined blower door and thermal imaging surveys are highly effective at identifying issues in buildings for several reasons:
- Enhanced Detection of Air Leaks: The blower door system creates a controlled airflow by depressurising the building, which exaggerates thermal anomalies caused by air infiltration or exfiltration. This makes it easier for the thermal imaging camera to detect and visualize air leakage paths in the building envelope.
- Improved Accuracy: By using both methods together, you can see thermal defects more clearly due to the increased pressure difference (and temperature differential) over the building fabric. This allows for more accurate identification of issues that might not be visible under normal conditions.
- Comprehensive Analysis: The combination of these two techniques provides a more thorough analysis of the building envelope. It helps identify air leakage paths, areas with poor insulation, thermal bridges, and other defects that can lead to energy loss and comfort issues.
- Targeted Remedial Actions: With a detailed understanding of where air leaks and thermal defects are located, remedial actions can be accurately targeted. This ensures that repairs are effective and efficient, addressing the root causes of the problems.
- Compliance with Regulations: This combination helps ensure that buildings meet air tightness and energy efficiency standards required by building regulations and BREEAM etc.
By leveraging the strengths of both blower door tests and thermal imaging surveys, you can achieve a more thorough and accurate assessment of your building’s thermal performance and air tightness.
How much does a Thermographic Building Survey cost?
This is a very common question with a very easy answer, it depends on various factors, such as:
- The survey location
- The type and size of building
- The amount of buildings
- The preparation required
- Is it just an external survey, it internal and external
- Potential access issues that may slow down the survey
- The projected survey time and equipment required
- The location and travel costs/time
- The deliverable: in other words, what is type of reportage is required
- Does it need to be undertaken by a Level 3 thermographer
For instance, an infrared house survey in London, will be a lot cheaper than a commercial survey in Scotland.
Once you have informed us your requirements – using the above to factors – please let us know and we will try to forward an accurate fee proposal on the same day.
Contact us today for your thermal imaging survey
Ready to unveil hidden issues and improve your building’s efficiency? Contact Darren today to schedule your thermal imaging survey. Our team is here to provide you with the best solutions for a healthier, more efficient building.
- Phone: 07775 623464 /
- Email: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
- Website: www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk
Ensure the health and efficiency of your building with our professional thermal imaging surveys. Detect hidden issues early and take the necessary steps to protect your assets and improve indoor comfort.
If you need any additional details or specific information, feel free to let me know, or download our thermal imaging checklist today.