Home inspections are an integral part of selling or buying a home. Homeowners selling a property benefit from a professional inspection because it increases the chances of a good offer. Buyers order an inspection to understand the state of the property better. Before you hire a professional to assess the house, ask if they offer thermal imaging in home inspections.
Why Use Thermal Imaging in Home Inspection?
Infrared cameras are used during a thermal inspection to examine the property. With this technology, it is possible to identify temperature variations that might indicate issues that are invisible to the naked eye.
Uses of Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections
It can be challenging to spot specific issues with a house on the surface. That is where thermal imaging cameras are helpful. These devices allow inspectors to thoroughly inspect your walls, floors, and ceilings to see details about your home. The infrared camera offers a picture of the heat signature of an area. This information can help an inspector assess the property.
Here are a few examples of how thermal imaging is used in home inspections.
1. Pest Detection
Pests such as termites cause significant damage to your home and furniture. Additionally, they are challenging to detect until they have already formed large colonies on your property. Termite nests and mud tubes can create irregular heat patterns on walls. An infrared camera can detect temperature differentials that indicate a termite or rodent infestation.
2. Energy Efficiency
If the home is not energy-efficient, monthly bills are high. Drafty windows and doors allow air leaks. If your home is poorly insulated, heat escapes, forcing your HVAC unit to work harder. Thermal imaging cameras can find areas of energy inefficiency. It is easier to boost energy efficiency if your inspector identifies areas that need improvement.
3. Detect Water Leaks with Thermal Imaging During Your Home Inspection
Moisture problems in the home lead to mold and water damage. The worst part is that many homeowners go for months without knowing about leaks. If you opt for a thermal inspection, you can catch moisture issues before the repairs become extensive and costly. On an infrared camera, moist areas will appear in a different color, indicating a temperature difference. These images help the inspector locate the source of the leak.
4. Electrical Issues
Over time, the electrical wiring in a home can deteriorate, leading to hot spots and other hazards. If left unattended, these wiring problems can lead to house fires. Thermal imaging during an inspection can locate hot spots and pinpoint the exact location of the problem.
Thermal imaging during a home inspection is a great way to spot problems you cannot detect with other inspection methods. The inspector will provide accurate and detailed feedback about the property’s condition. Hire a professional home inspector who uses infrared imaging. A thorough home inspection will be worth the investment.
MD Inspections offers professional home inspection services to Houston, Spring, The Woodlands, and most surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment.