Why Thermal Imaging is Better than Traditional Inspection Methods
Thermal imaging Surveys and traditional inspection methods each have their own strengths, but the differences can be striking when you delve deeper into how they work.
Speed and Efficiency: Traditional inspection methods, while effective in many situations, can be time-consuming, especially when issues are concealed behind surfaces or in hard-to-reach areas such as roofs etc. Thermal imaging, however, provides near-instant results by scanning large areas quickly. This rapid feedback allows for more immediate diagnosis, which is especially important in situations where time is of the essence, such as in emergency assessments.
Non-Invasiveness vs. Invasiveness Surveys: Traditional inspections often depend on visual assessments and physical probing—sometimes even requiring the removal of materials like drywall or flooring—to get a clear picture of potential issues. In contrast, thermal imaging is entirely non-invasive. It captures heat signatures from a distance, meaning that hidden problems (like moisture/water ingress, damaged/missing insulation, or electrical faults) are identified without any physical disruption to the structure.
Health & Safety: Traditional inspection methods, often require access scaffold and/or large motorised access equipment to reach areas. Thermal imaging negates the need for access equipment, which reduces the associated health and safety issues of working at height, one of the biggest killers in the construction industry. In a nutshell thermal imaging can improve health and safety in the workplace.
Depth of Information: While a traditional inspection method may provide observable details like cracks or visible damp, it can miss the underlying causes that aren’t immediately apparent. Thermal imaging reveals subtle differences in temperature that signal hidden problems such as microbial growth due to moisture intrusion or poorly insulated areas. This offers a level of diagnostic accuracy that helps in pinpointing issues long before they become visually evident or cause further damage
Documentation and Communication: Another clear advantage of thermal imaging inspection reports, is its clear, color-coded images that visually represent temperature anomalies. This is not only useful for internal diagnostics but also plays a vital role in communication with stakeholders, as it visually demonstrates areas of concern in a way that traditional written reports or photographs might not capture as effectively. Our reports have a defect section which carefully highlight the varying degrees of severity in a clear and concise format.
By comparing these aspects, you can see why thermal imaging is becoming a favoured tool for modern inspection practices. It complements the traditional building methods, expanding the scope of what inspectors are capable of identifying, while also reducing the need for disruptive, costly interventions on critical infrastructure such as electrical systems.
Why pick apt sound testing to undertake your thermal imaging surveys
Choosing APT Sound Testing for your thermal imaging surveys means benefiting from our experience, technology, and proactive and friendly approach. With over 20 years of expertise in building thermographic surveys across England and Wales, APT harnesses level 3 thermographers, along with cutting-edge infrared technology to detect temperature variations within your building structures. We can quickly identify heat loss, moisture intrusion, water leaks, and hidden structural issues that are invisible to the naked eye.
Our thermal imaging reports are designed to meet stringent requirements set by, insurance providers, facility managers, building control experts, and BREEAM assessors. This means that whether you’re aiming to check electrical installations, building energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, or pre-emptively address potential damp or insulation problems, APT Sound Testing provides valuable, relevant data to better inform your decisions.
Furthermore, as out thermographers are Level 3 trained, you can be sure our services add credibility and reliability to every survey. Clients’ testimonials confirm not only the technical quality of the surveys but also the friendly, proactive service that makes the process smoother and more cost-effective. By choosing APT Sound Testing, you’re investing in peace of mind, advanced diagnostics, and a partner who truly understands the complexities of building performance and safety.
Contact for your Thermal Imaging Building Survey
For more information on our thermal imaging surveys, please contact APT Sound Testing on 07775 623464 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
