What is Water Intrusion?

Water Intrusion is the introduction of any moisture into the indoor environment or structural cavity of a building that is not a normal function of that structure. Water Intrusion can be one of the single most destructive factors affecting the integrity of a home or building, sometimes not being detected until the major damage has occurred. Water Intrusion may be caused by multiple conditions that may include toilet overflows, plumbing leaks inside wall cavities or sub-areas, exterior stucco cracks, roof deficiencies, window installation, flashing and sealants failures or improper applications, areas of poor building envelope design and clogged gutters and downspouts.

When conditions are suitable, water intrusion no matter how small can cause mold to appear in as little as 24 to 48 hours and the problem is that many leaks will not manifest in the interior of the home, but rather mold will grow and thrive inside the wall cavity.

Infrared Thermal Imaging

An Infrared Thermal Imaging camera is used as a tool to aid in visual examination of accessible areas of a building in order to inspect for water intrusion within areas impacted by a known water intrusion in order to determine the extent of damages or to locate plumbing leaks or hidden water inside of a wall cavity.

Thermography is a “heat diagram” or a visible picture using the infrared spectrum. This imaging technique is a powerful and non-invasive means of monitoring and diagnosing the condition of buildings. Infrared inspections can provide immediate documentation of as-built and post restoration conditions, post-casualty cause and origin data, plumbing and building envelope water intrusion, post-flood and fire & water damaged materials assessment, energy inefficiency, and electrical problems. Typically water on building materials will evaporate and cool, a wet spot, when observed with the infrared camera is visible as a distinct cool area.