Infrared Thermal Imaging
How Infrared Thermal Imaging Is Utilized in Mold Inspection
One of the best non-invasive methods for finding hidden problems, such as mold growth, is infrared thermal imaging. Since mold infestations can start above ceilings, beneath floors, or behind walls, thermal imaging provides restoration professionals with an effective early detection tool. However, how does it operate exactly? Which instruments are employed? What distinguishes it from traditional infrared (IR) techniques?
In this blog, we will break down the principle of infrared thermal imaging, explain the types of equipment used, discuss how it’s applied during mold inspections, and clarify the difference between a thermal imager and a standard IR device.
What Is the Principle of Infrared Thermal Imaging?
Infrared thermal imaging operates on the principle of thermal radiation. Every object with a temperature above absolute zero emits infrared energy (heat). A thermal imager captures these emissions and converts them into a visible image called a thermogram, which uses a spectrum of colors to indicate temperature differences.
In the context of mold inspection for homes in Los Angeles, these temperature anomalies help inspectors locate areas of moisture intrusion. Since damp building materials retain heat differently than dry ones, thermal imaging can highlight areas where moisture (and hence, potential mold growth) is likely occurring even if there is no visible damage yet. That means:
Objects emit IR radiation proportional to their temperature.
The thermal camera detects this radiation and visualizes it.
Cooler or damper areas appear as dark blue or purple, while warmer, dry areas appear yellow or red.
These temperature differentials point to potential mold-prone zones.
How Is Thermal Imaging Used in Mold Inspections?
During a residential or commercial mold inspection, thermal imaging is used to:
1. Identify Moisture Without Demolition
Thermal imagers allow inspectors to scan walls, ceilings, floors, and HVAC ducts without needing to cut into the structure. This is especially useful for real estate transactions, insurance documentation, or proactive building maintenance.
2. Trace Hidden Leaks
Plumbing issues or roof failures often leave behind a cold, damp path that is invisible to the naked eye. Thermal imaging helps track the full extent of the damage before visible mold appears.
3. Assess Ventilation Issues
Poor airflow in certain rooms may create temperature imbalances and humidity pockets that breed mold. Thermal scans can identify these zones quickly.
4. Validate Drying After Water Damage
Post-flood or water intrusion, thermal imaging confirms that affected areas have dried completely before beginning reconstruction or finishing. This prevents mold from forming behind new drywall or flooring.
Types of Thermal Imaging Equipment
Thermal imaging technology varies in complexity and capability. Below are the most common types used in the restoration and mold inspection industry:
1. Handheld Thermal Imaging Cameras
These are the most popular devices used by professionals. They often include:
Resolution: Ranges from 80x60 to 640x480 pixels.
Thermal Sensitivity: Typically <0.05°C (NETD).
Temperature Range: -20°C to 650°C or more.
Key Brands: FLIR, Fluke, Seek Thermal.
Popular models like the FLIR E8-XT or Fluke TiS55+ offer built-in Wi-Fi, touchscreen displays, and advanced reporting software integration.
2. Smartphone Thermal Imagers
These are compact attachments that plug into Android or iOS phones. While more affordable, they have lower resolution and limited sensitivity. Examples include:
FLIR ONE Pro
Seek CompactPRO
They are ideal for quick checks or supporting tools for field technicians.
3. Drone-Mounted Thermal Cameras
Used in commercial property inspections or for difficult-to-access structures, drones with thermal imaging capabilities (e.g., DJI Mavic 3T with FLIR Boson sensor) allow inspectors to scan rooftops and exterior walls safely and effectively.
Learn about: Drone Roof Inspection
Difference Between Thermal Imager and IR Thermometer
While both tools fall under the category of “infrared devices,” their applications and capabilities are quite different:
Aspect | Thermal Imager | IR Thermometer |
|---|---|---|
Function | Captures a full thermal image of surface area | Measures the temperature of a single spot |
Output | Color-coded thermogram (image) | Digital temperature reading (numeric) |
Use in Mold Inspection | Locates broader temperature differentials | Limited to spot-checking known wet areas |
Cost | Higher | Lower |
While IR thermometers are useful for measuring temperature at one location, thermal imagers provide a complete picture, making them far superior for mold detection, where hidden patterns are often more important than exact temperatures.
Limitations and Complementary Tools
While powerful, infrared thermal imaging is not a mold detector in itself - it only shows temperature variances, which may suggest moisture presence. Therefore, it is often used in combination with:
Moisture meters (pin-type or pinless)
Hygrometers to measure indoor humidity
Borescope cameras for visual confirmation inside wall cavities
Air and surface sampling for laboratory mold analysis
Using these tools together gives restoration experts a clearer, more accurate understanding of what’s happening behind the surfaces.
Partner with the Experts at Green Planet Restoration of LA
Ready to detect mold before it becomes a major problem? Whether you are dealing with past water damage, post-fire restoration, or need mold removal in Los Angeles, thermal imaging is a key part of our thorough, non-invasive inspection process.
At Green Planet Restoration of LA, we utilize advanced infrared thermal imaging in all of our residential mold inspection services to uncover hidden moisture and assess the full scope of contamination. Our experienced team combines technology with decades of restoration expertise to protect your property and health. Call Green Planet Restoration at (818)-717-0203 today or book your inspection online.
