How Thermal Imaging Can Save You Money and Energy in Your Construction Projects

Drone thermography plays so many roles in the construction industry. Combining UAV and infrared (IR) capabilities, the technology can be used to:

• inspect work
• monitor and maintain systems
• diagnose problems early
• assess and help improve energy efficiency
• verify proper installation of mechanical systems like HVAC

UAV thermography has many advantages over handheld IR technology.  Because it can be deployed remotely, thermal imaging using drones can quickly assess large areas, keep technicians safe, and provide images of otherwise inaccessible spaces.  For these reasons and more, it’s the perfect technology to capture thermal images of the interior or exterior of tall buildings or huge structures like factories.

How Thermal Imaging Works

Without getting too technical, UAV thermography provides an image that can be used to quickly see temperature variations of objects.  The data collection process is non-destructive and non-contact, meaning that it can be accomplished safely without requiring work stoppage.

Every object emits electromagnetic radiation, which is on the same spectrum as the light we can see with the naked eye.  Though invisible, this electromagnetic energy, also known as a heat signature, can be detected by infrared sensors.  A thermal imager converts the heat signature into an electronic signal, which can then be used to create an image.

Thermal images can be in color or monochromatic gray levels representing temperature gradients.  Cool colors like purple and blue correspond to cool temperatures; warm colors like red and yellow represent heat.

A thermal sensor, or infrared camera, when combined with a visible light camera, can create very clear images showing things like heat being lost under a door, overheating electrical components, or water leaks.

Why Should Builders Use Thermal Imaging

New construction projects involve the installation of complex equipment such as steam lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC, and other mechanical systems. Given the fact that so many moving parts leave a lot of room for construction error, it pays to use thermal imaging to verify your work.

Thermal imaging is an excellent diagnostic tool.  By detecting potential wiring or plumbing problems early, for example, issues can be corrected before the equipment is inaccessible behind walls or under flooring.  Loose wiring and overloaded circuits can easily be pinpointed on a thermal image as can water leaks.

Problems with mechanical installations can also show up on thermal images.  Friction causes heat, for example, which can be an indication of stress or impending malfunction.  The ability of thermal imaging to quickly spot problem areas saves labor and causes less disruption.

Once repairs have been accomplished, thermal imaging can be deployed again to verify that the fix was effective and the system is working properly.

For construction projects where work is warranted, it is in your best interest to verify and document that the initial project was completed properly with all systems in working order.   Use it to document proper electrical wiring, plumbing, mechanical installation, and more to avoid having to eat expensive repair costs down the road.

For remodels or restoration projects, thermal imaging has additional uses.  While it cannot detect mold, thermography can identify cool spots that indicate moisture leaks, which can harbor mold or fungus.

Thermal imaging shows the frame structure behind plaster walls and can illustrate thermal bridging.  Considering that studs can make up 25% of a home’s walls, a quarter of the average house is uninsulated.  If the goal is to provide better energy efficiency, understanding a building’s structure can help in planning solutions.

Use Drone Thermography on Your Next Construction Project

Darling Geomatics has a longstanding reputation for excellence in all types of 3D imaging and UAV technology, including thermal imaging.  Rely on their decades of expertise on your next construction project. Darling Geomatics’ expert team of ITC certified thermographers provide accurate, reliable, actionable information that can save you money.