FAQs about Infrared Building Envelope Surveys

An Infrared Building Envelope Survey is typically used to locate an existing problem or document the condition of a building. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ’s about Infrared Building Envelope Surveys) for property managers, building owners, contractors and/or architects.

– How does an Infrared Building Envelope Survey work?
– What kind of problems can be identified during an Infrared Building Envelope Survey?
– Should the Infrared Envelope Building Survey be performed from the interior or the exterior?
– What are the Required Site Conditions for an Infrared Building Envelope Survey?
– What standards apply to Infrared Building Envelope Surveys?
– What should your report include?
– Why should you use Jersey Infrared Consultants?

How does an Infrared Building Envelope Survey work?

Infrared thermography is a form of non-contact, non-destructive testing used to detect and document thermal patterns associated with either the presence of latent moisture and/or air infiltration or exfiltration. Our high-resolution infrared imagers detect infrared energy emitted from the building surface and convert it into an image, which is displayed on a monitor screen.

Depending upon the purpose of the Infrared Building Envelope Survey and the existing conditions, the survey may be performed form the interior and/or the exterior of the building. The time of day and the site conditions may also vary depending on the purpose of the Survey.

When an area with an unusual temperature pattern is located, the thermal image is recorded, along with a detailed description of the location of the anomaly. The thermogram, control photograph, and area information are compiled into a report that is available in hardcopy and digital formats.

The two most common problems identified during an Infrared Building Envelope Survey are missing or damaged insulation, and the presence of latent moisture.

Missing or damaged insulation can result in air leakage. Air infiltration/exfiltration can occur at numerous locations within Infrared Building Envelope Survey FAQS by Jersey Infrared Consultants a building envelope through seemingly insignificant cracks or openings that are not properly caulked. Air infiltration can be detected when Surveys are performed from the interior of the building; exfiltration may be detected from the exterior of the building.

The presence of latent moisture within the building envelope results in conduction losses. Under proper weather and site conditions, our Infrared Building Envelope Surveys can detect and document evidence of latent moisture within building sidewalls including EIFS.

When deciding whether to perform an Infrared Building Envelope Survey from the interior or the exterior of the building, many factors should be considered. The most common considerations include:

What is the purpose of the Survey?

Quality Assurance
LEEDS Certification Documentation
Location of possible problems
Identification of a specific problem

What is the site access?

Are there any security restrictions?
What is the line-of-sight to the areas to be inspected?

Does the budget and project time frame allow detailed interior access?

It is important to remember that Required Roof Site Conditions will vary depending on the purpose of the survey, as well as interior versus exterior access.

The experienced staff of Jersey Infrared Consultants will work with you to define your specific project and which approach may best fit your needs.

The success of an Infrared Building Envelope Survey is dependent on many conditions. These conditions vary somewhat depending on the purpose of the survey, as well as interior versus exterior access. No matter what the purpose of the survey or the vantage point of the survey, a direct line-of-sight to the target surfaces is absolutely necessary. For detailed information on site requirements for different types of Infrared building Envelope Surveys, please see our Required Site Conditions.

Standards that apply to Infrared Building Envelope Surveys are authored by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), Roof Consultants Institute (RCI), and Infraspection Institute. They cover topics including procedures, applications, certification of personnel, equipment use and performance standards, and safety. Following these standards will help ensure quality results from your Infrared Building Envelope Survey. A list of standards followed by Jersey Infrared Consultants can be found at Infrared Building Envelope Standards.

According to industry standards, reports should be clear, easy-to-understand, and available in written and/or digital formats. The report will include the following sections:

Introduction covers the procedures followed and provides information to assist understanding the report including basic description of the concept behind performing the Survey.

Thermographer’s Comments will discuss the areas surveyed, weather conditions leading to and during the survey, overview of findings of the surfaces surveyed, discussion, prognosis and recommendations.

Problem Areas should be documented with a Thermogram and control photograph with a description that includes the following information:

Accurate description of the Location
Ambient Temperature (°C and/or °F)
Site Conditions
Description of the anomaly and any related information

Why should you use Jersey Infrared Consultants?

The high standards we set for service and reliability have earned us a reputation for excellence. All Infrared Building Envelope Surveys are performed by Infraspection Institute Certified Level III Infrared Thermographers^® using state-of-the-art equipment with direct traceability to the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Jersey Infrared Consultants’ safety compliance, background check, and drug screening programs are a part of our commitment to providing an unequaled level of client care and quality service. Our reports are clear, easy-to-understand, and comprehensive. They meet or exceed all current industry standards and are delivered in a timely fashion in both written and electronic formats.

Since 1984, we have successfully completed Infrared Building Envelope Surveys at some of the highest profile buildings throughout the United States. In addition to being full time thermographers, our staff regularly conducts training classes, publishes technical articles, and participates in continuing education, enabling us to remain THE firm to hire for your Infrared Building Envelope Survey.