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Moisture is one of roof’s worst enemies, causing premature failure of almost all roofing components. Unlike big leaks which are easily spotted after a strong storm, small and slow leaks are often the worst culprit because they often go unnoticed. Even when the exterior of a roof is completely dry, the interior and the roofing components may still be wet. How Thermal Imaging Works Thermal imaging devices use an infrared signal to detect temperature differences across the roofing system. When a professional roofing contractor has scanned the roof with one of these devices, a thermographic image is produced. A thermographic image is a digital graphic rendering of the various temperature readings. Areas with cooler temperatures appear darker in color, while areas with warmer temperatures appear brighter. This allows your local roofer to easily identify areas where water has entered the roofing system. Detect Deep Water Damage The main advantage to leak detection by thermal imaging is that it penetrates the outer surface of the roofing material, which our eyes cannot. This allows roofers to check internal roofing components like insulation against possible moisture exposure and damage. Insulation, when wet, gains tremendous weight, putting an increased load on existing roofing structures. Additionally, instead of moisture eventually drying out of the roofing system, it is instead trapped by insulation. As roofing material absorb the moisture, their water storage capacities fill. Once a roofing materials water storage capacity has been exceeded, the structural integrity of the material is lost, and roof failure occurs. Thermal Imaging – A Preventative Measure Despite the fact that most homeowners really only use thermal imaging when they suspect a problem, this type of leak detection is still considered a preventative measure because it is a key step in preventing further roof damage. In addition to leaks, experienced roofing contractors are able to use thermal imaging to find spaces where air is entering the home and areas where air is not circulating properly. Many roofing systems require an attic fan or a form of roof ventilation. When sealed properly the roofing system allows the air to travel in ways that promote maximum cooling effects during the summer and warming effects during the winter. Specifics of Thermal Imaging Leak Detection It is not enough to use an infrared device to detect leaks. Experience is needed to use the tool properly. Some environmental conditions can affect the outcome of thermal imaging like weather patterns, wind speed, outdoor temperature, how dry the roof is, and if there is any debris on the roof. These conditions can affect how the thermographic image is interpreted, possibly leading to poor leak detection and false positives. It is not enough to use an infrared device to detect leaks. Experience is needed to use the tool properly. Some environmental conditions can affect the outcome of thermal imaging like weather patterns, wind speed, outdoor temperature, how dry the roof is, and if there is any debris on the roof. These conditions can affect how the thermographic image is interpreted, possibly leading to poor leak detection and false positives. Schulte Roofing, “Home of the Bulletproof Roof™ Guarantee”, is a Bryan Roofer with over 18 years or service to central and southeast Texas. To learn more, visit their site at www.schulteroofing.com.
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Bryan roofer, Thermal imaging, leak detection, Schulte Roofing,
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