Water damage can severely affect buildings, decrease property value, and even pose a health risk due to the spread of mold. It is crucial to reach out to experts, such as Full Spectrum Environmental, to deploy the latest techniques in water damage detection and prevent further damage to your home.
Evolution of Water Damage Detection
In the past, professionals used invasive procedures such as drilling holes in walls to check for moisture or ripping up carpets to check for water damage during an inspection. However, in the 21st century, infrared imaging has taken over, making water damage detection easier and less invasive.
Infrared imaging is a technology that allows us to see what the eye can’t see. It works by detecting the infrared radiation that objects give off as heat. All things emit some level of heat, even if they are at the same temperature as their surroundings.
When a substance such as drywall, wood, or concrete in a commercial or residential building becomes saturated, it will impart a ‘cooler’ reading than a substance not saturated with water. This heat signature displays a difference in color, allowing professionals to detect water damage much faster and easier than simply using an invasive humidity reader.
Inspectors, such as Brett Brunsvold with Full Spectrum Environmental, use infrared imaging devices after the wake of hurricanes in Florida, saving valuable time and resources.
The storms caused significant water damage to many buildings, making it difficult for inspectors to identify the extent of the damage. However, with the help of infrared imaging, they were able to detect water damage and take necessary steps to prevent further damage.
Advantages of Infrared Imaging for Detecting Water Damage
Compared to traditional water damage inspection techniques, infrared imaging has many benefits. Firstly, it is a non-invasive method; inspectors no longer need to rip up carpets or drill holes in walls to check for water damage.
Instead, they can use an infrared camera to scan the area and detect any spots that are cooler than they should be. As a result, the inspection process is made more efficient and saves time and resources.
Secondly, infrared imaging has the ability to detect hidden water damage. These hidden moisture sources can be found using infrared imaging, allowing inspectors to identify and address the problem before it becomes more severe.
Thirdly, using infrared imaging is a safe and environmentally friendly method for water damage detection, as it is a non-destructive method that does not require the use of harmful chemicals or invasive procedures.
Another advantage is that it is fast and efficient. With infrared cameras, inspectors can scan more areas in less time. This is especially helpful in urgent situations when there is no time to waste, such as in the wake of a flood or hurricane.
Infrared imaging is exceptionally accurate, allowing professionals to detect moisture hidden behind walls, floors, and ceilings, allowing inspectors to pinpoint the source of the problem with great accuracy.
Homeowners should always opt for inspection services with infrared imaging to detect water damage, saving time, money, and resources. It is also less of a headache for property owners, as they will not have to go through the process of tearing apart their property for water damage detection.