Infrared Roofing Inspection

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

Many roofs need to be replaced prematurely due to moisture damage from leaks and improper installation. Thermal infrared inspections are non-contact, non-destructive testing procedures. This technology is used in finding damaged portions of roofing structure so they can be repaired before water damage rots the entire roof.

How Infrared Roofing Inspection Works

An infrared camera allows a professional to scan large areas of roof from a distance. Infrared roof inspection works on the principle that different materials in the roof have different thermal mass. In the daytime, the sun heats the roof structure. After the sun sets, the roof begins to cool. If there is a leak in the roof membrane, the insulation inside the roof will become wet. The wet insulation has a higher thermal mass than the rest of the dry roof structure. As a result of this difference, the wet areas will retain heat energy longer than other areas providing the infrared inspector with a clear picture of the damaged area. The temperature difference between damaged and dry roof is very small. Because of this, it is vital that you have an experienced professional perform your inspection.

-- Tips courtesy of ServiceMagic.com