Why Infrared Roof Scans?
Infrared Moisture Surveys are technologically advanced roofing inspections performed using specialized drones and handheld devices. These inspections provide property owners with a clear and discernible picture of the moisture present in their roofing system. Equipped with this evidence, Parsons Roofing Company can recommend accurate, fact-based solutions that meet the unique needs of each property.
Commercial Roofing Infared Thermography Benefits
Targeted Roof Repairs
Locating exact leak points on low slope roofs can be challenging. The location of the roof defect and the area of the water intrusion in the building are not always directly in line with one another. Many times, the roof issue is twenty or thirty feet away from internal damage. Infrared scans help narrow the search for possible leak points by providing an actual image of the moisture content in the roof.
Damage Prevention
Moisture left unchecked in a roofing system can compromise the structural integrity of a building. Rotten wood and rusted steel decks present a safety issue for technicians accessing the roof and dramatically increase the cost of roof replacement. Interior damage can impact sensitive electrical and mechanical systems and provide a breeding ground for mold.
Periodic Monitoring
Implementing thermal roof scans into a preventative maintenance program is a proactive way to monitor the health of your roof. Repairing issues at their infancy will limit the scope and cost of the repairs while protecting the building structure, it’s contents and business operations.
When to Request a Roof Moisture Survey?
Recovering a Roof
Avoiding the cost of a full tear off and recovering the existing roof is an acceptable and cost-effective solution if the current system is free of moisture. Many times, contractors will rush through the due diligence phase to submit a quick and cheap bid proposal. Installing a new roofing system over an unknown substrate is not conducive with long term performance.
Roof Restoration
With warranty periods of up to 20 years, Silicone Roof Coatings has become one of the fastest-growing segments in commercial roofing applications. Similar to a roof re-cover, it is imperative there is no moisture in the existing roofing system before application. Improper applications over-saturated substrates can cause the coating to fail and peel. When properly installed, Silicone Coatings provide a service life that far exceeds the available warranty periods.
Property Acquisition
Unfunded capital expenditures and deferred maintenance can kill a real estate deal. An infrared moisture survey offers buyers an accurate snapshot of the existing roof conditions. Understanding where the roofing system is in its life cycle allows the buyer to forecast a budget as well as develop a maintenance plan to protect the investment.
How are Commercial Moisture Surveys Performed?
Precise Site Conditions
Infrared surveys are only valid on low-slope roofs. The surface needs to be dry and relatively clean. The ideal setting is mostly sunny and warm during the day with a temperature differential of 10 or more degrees after the sun sets. During the day the solar load heats both the roof surface and the moisture hidden beneath the surface. As the sun sets, the roof surface cools quickly while the moisture in the substrate retains the heat. The infrared imagers detect this temperature differential and provide a clearly defined image of probable saturated areas.
Interpreting the results
Our consultant will then review all of the evidence. He will interpret the results and identify the areas both on thermal photos as well as standard photos so the customer can evaluate the information in a concise format.
Specialized Equipment
Drones fitted with thermal cameras can capture the entire scope of a large building through the use of aerial imaging. Our DJI Inspire Drone with Zenmuse XT FLIR thermal imaging camera1 is capable of producing high-quality video and images in multiple color scales. Our Flir E8 Handheld Thermal Imaging Camera is excellent for inspecting smaller areas from the roof top surface.
Verification
Infrared photos and videos are an excellent tool to indicate likely issues; however, it is essential for a technician to verify the findings. Field verification can be accomplished by coring the roof or through non-invasive impedance scanners. Parsons utilizes a Tramex RWS Roof and Wall Scanner to confirm results. This device functions by transmitting a low-frequency electronic signal into the material and measuring the strength of the current. We can test materials down to a depth of 4” utilizing this nondestructive method.
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