5 Things You Didn’t Know About Thermal Imaging for Leak Detection
Thermal Imaging is commonly employed in building inspections to identify energy inefficiencies, water leaks and insulation issues. It helps us to visualise temperature differences and potential issues within building structures.
In situations where a water leak is suspected but the exact location of the leak is unknown Thermal Imaging technology can help identify the location.
With pipes often being hidden under floors or within walls, getting to the source of the leak can be difficult without advanced solutions such as Thermal Imaging. Using this method means that expensive work such as pulling up floors and floorboards or other damage to the property can be avoided.
At Rainbow Restoration, our Leak Detection experts use the latest specialist equipment to enable them to quickly identify the location of the leak so that access can be made and repairs carried out swiftly to prevent any further water damage.
Five Facts About Thermal Imaging for Leak Detection
- It can Identify Temperature Variations: Water from a pipe leak is typically at a different temperature than the surrounding surfaces. Thermal cameras can detect these temperature variations, allowing us to identify potential leak sources.
Thermal imaging is a very accurate way of detecting leaks that are hidden in your property, even in pipes that you may not have known existed. Most Thermal Imaging cameras are able to detect temperature changes of around 0.2°C (Celsius). - Moisture Detection: Thermal Imaging can reveal areas of elevated moisture. Damp within building materials causes temperature differences that thermal cameras can capture.
- Hidden Leaks: Thermal Imaging is effective for identifying leaks behind walls or within structures where the source might not be visible. It helps locate hidden moisture issues that could lead to mould growth or structural damage.
- Early Detection: Thermal Imaging enables early detection of leaks before they become visibly apparent. This early intervention can prevent extensive damage and reduce repair costs. Using Thermal Imaging is a very quick way to get to the source of a leak compared to other methods.
The length of time will depend on the size of the building and the severity of the problem but it will save significant time detecting the problem. - Non-Destructive Inspection: Unlike traditional methods that may involve destructive testing, Thermal Imaging is non-destructive. It allows professionals to identify potential leaks without the need for invasive measures, preserving the integrity of the structure.
In Leak Detection, a thermal camera captures infrared radiation, and the resulting image shows temperature variations. Wet areas or leaks appear as cooler spots compared to dry surroundings.
This technology is especially useful in commercial and residential settings, providing a quick and efficient means of identifying water-related issues.
Benefits:
It’s more affordable than you think
There is a common misconception that Thermal Imaging Leak Detection services will be really expensive, but it usually works out to be more affordable than using invasive methods with the additional repairs that could be required.
Covered by many insurance companies
If your home insurance policy covers Leak Trace and Access then your insurer will usually cover the cost of you instructing a specialist Leak Detection company, offering services such as Thermal Imaging. By using this type of service, your leak can be located as quickly as possible, and the amount of water damage will be limited.
In addition to Thermal Imaging, our experienced Leak Detection Technicians use a variety of other specialist technical solutions to quickly and accurately locate leaks, depending on the specific circumstances. Other services include Acoustic testing, Moisture mapping, Endoscope Inspections, Water Analysis and Tracer Gas.
All of our Technicians are fully trained in using these specialist technologies to ensure that Rainbow Restoration is your best option to call when you need to identify the source of a leak.
Find out more about our Thermal Imaging services and contact us on 01623 675100 if you are looking for a reliable, fast and accurate water Leak Detection service.
Updated: 05/12/23