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Building Science is the use of thermal imaging cameras as a non-invasive means to inspect, diagnose and monitor the condition of buildings. Through thermal imaging, structural anomalies may be revealed, and much more easily addressed than by conventional inspection methods, leading to cost and time savings and a safer building environment. Using thermal imaging cameras, also known as infrared (IR) cameras, for thermal imaging to assist with building diagnostics has greatly increased the speed and accuracy of locating trouble spots, and made ongoing building maintenance and repair a much easier endeavor. Professionally trained thermographers, using thermal imaging cameras, create thermal images that allow them to see what's behind the scenes (or in this case, the walls), for a comprehensive and in-depth view of a building's condition. Thermal imaging is used in the building science industry to great effect to monitor, locate and repair many otherwise hidden conditions such as heating and cooling loss through improperly insulated areas, moisture damage and mold growth from plumbing or rain water issues, termite damage or potential electrical problems. Prior to the use of thermal imaging technology, building inspection consisted of removing ceiling, floor and wall panels to visually inspect suspected problem areas - a very time consuming and costly process, or direct-contact monitoring equipment requiring considerable time to "scan" all surfaces being surveyed with limited use in hard to access areas. With the advent of thermal imaging, structures may be inspected via a non-contact method, and any issues diagnosed through noted differences in temperature from building operation norms. Industry applications for thermal imaging are numerous and include: - Insurance inspection for post-casualty damage assessment from fire or flooding
- Predictive maintenance for facilities managers and building owners
- Structural and internal troubleshooting for building restoration firms
- Competitive advantage & accurate results for building inspectors
Today, insurance companies, builders, contractors, restoration firms and professional thermographers routinely use thermal imaging cameras as part of their jobs - to inspect buildings for safety and structural issues, and as part on an ongoing maintenance program. FLIR Systems is proud to be the world leader in Thermal Imaging.
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