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Revealing the invisible
Reliable detection of moisture and water damage in buildings with thermal imaging cameras from Testo.
The existence of moisture and water infiltration in buildings has far-reaching effects on their value, structure and the health of the occupants. This problem is particularly exacerbated in times of increased extreme weather events such as heavy rain, storms or monsoon rain in Asia. In this context, infrared thermography proves to be a valuable tool for building inspectors and renovation specialists to identify and resolve moisture problems from various sources (see right).
Not every case of dampness in walls is due to a burst pipe. Damp walls and ceilings can also be caused by water penetrating (e.g. from leaky roofs) or rising damp. In addition, moisture damage can result from blocked drains or inadequate drainage.
The use of thermal imaging cameras from Testo allows you to reliably identify the cause of rising damp or rainwater penetration. The existence of dampness and water penetration in buildings has far-reaching effects on their value, structure and the health of the occupants. This problem is particularly exacerbated in times of increased extreme weather events such as heavy rain, storms or monsoon rain in Asia. In this context, infrared thermography proves to be a valuable tool for building inspectors and renovation specialists to identify and resolve moisture problems from various sources (see right).
Not every case of dampness in walls is due to a burst pipe. Damp walls and ceilings can also be caused by water penetrating (e.g. from leaky roofs) or rising damp. In addition, moisture damage can result from blocked drains or inadequate drainage.
Using Testo thermal imaging cameras allows you to reliably identify the cause of rising damp or rainwater penetration before these problems cause serious damage
Soil moisture (groundwater)
Soil moisture (pressure)
Seepage
Driving Rain
Heavy rain
Damage to the roof
Defective rain gutter
Examples of moisture and water damage
penetrating water
Roof leakage
Rising damp
What should you pay attention to when choosing the right thermal imaging camera?
High thermal sensitivity (NETD) to detect the smallest differences
Finely adjustable temperature interval (span) for higher contrast display
High infrared resolution for optimal image quality
Our recommendation: testo 883-1
very good NETD of <40 mK
Temperature interval adjustable up to 1 K
IR resolution of 320 x 240 pixels
(with SuperResolution 640 x 480 pixels)
Wide-angle lens for a large field of view in confined spaces
Manual focus for sharp thermal images
This makes it possible to thermograph damage caused by penetrating water and rising damp
For thermal image analysis of water and moisture damage, you need a high-resolution camera with high thermal sensitivity (NETD) and a finely adjustable temperature interval.
Only examine possible external damage in dry and calm weather. For flat roofs, take photos in the evening when the damp areas have warmed up from the sun.
Particularly in the case of damage caused by rising damp, reduce the temperature interval (span) to see the difference between dry or warmer material and moist or colder material. You can also use moisture measuring devices for support.
Compare and document the thermal and visual images. Analyze the thermal images using software and create a report with causes and solutions.
Measure the drying progress after renovation.
The right thermal imaging camera for every requirement
And for selective measurements, the right moisture meter from Testo
Thermography Pocket Guide
Download the exclusive practical guide
Emission, reflection, transmission
Measuring spot and measuring distance
Measurement object and measurement environment
Sources of error in infrared measurement
Practical determination of ε and RTC
And much more...