Prior to conducting thermal imaging, it is essential to establish optimal conditions to facilitate the accurate detection of underlying moisture issues. Initial preparation involves eliminating conductive thermal interference.
### Surface Preparation
– **Eliminate Conductive Heat Sources:** Turn off baseboards, radiant heating systems, and other sources of external heat on surfaces to be inspected.
– **Allow Cooling:** Surfaces should be allowed to cool for several hours or overnight.
– **Remove Obstructions:** Clear away furniture and other items that may block the thermal imaging camera’s view.
### Moisture Test
– **Conduct a Moisture Test:** Moisture levels within the walls can be assessed using a moisture meter or infrared sensor.
– **Identify Moist Areas:** Mark or note areas with elevated moisture content.
– **Correlate Results:** Thermal imaging results should be correlated with moisture test data to identify areas requiring further investigation.
### Additional Considerations
– **Consider Environmental Conditions:** Ideal conditions for thermal imaging are typically in the morning or evening when exterior temperatures are stable.
– **Avoid Direct Sunlight:** Direct sunlight can interfere with thermal imaging results.
– **Ensure Proper Equipment:** Use a thermal imaging camera with sufficient resolution and sensitivity for the intended application.
– **Minimize Airflow:** Airflow can affect thermal patterns. Close windows and doors to reduce air currents.
– **Allow for Acclimatization:** Allow the thermal imaging camera to adjust to the working environment for at least 15 minutes before starting the inspection.