subject: Weatherization Tools - Infra Red Thermal Imaging Technology [print this page] The basic principles of home weatherization have always been to seal and insulate the dwelling. Traditionally the process has been to caulk and fill the joints around windows, doors and other envelope openings. The next step was to insulate walls and ceilings that have no insulation, or require upgrading to higher R-value standards. Once these basic procedures were done it was assumed the dwelling was now weatherized.
With advancements in technology and diagnostic tools that are available today, it becomes clear the basics are usually not enough. The most recent diagnostic tool being used in weatherization is an Infra Red camera manufactured by Flir and others. With this simple tool the user can identify differences in temperature variation just by pointing a camera device at a specific area of the dwelling such as doors, windows, walls, etc. The differences in temperature are shown in color variation on a screen that clearly point out the areas that need the most help in weatherizing the structure. Or in other words identify where the air is escaping or entering the dwelling, and where insulation may have voids or missing completely. One of the best features of these cameras is the ability to show a before and after snapshot of how the work is performing that was done to a structure.
Just a few years ago an Infra Red camera was very expensive, weigh up to 75 pounds, and required extensive training to use and analyze the information it produced. Today these devices are compact, light weight, easy to use and very reasonably priced. The detailed information these cameras provide is not only specific but extremely detailed. Technology has come to the weatherization industry. Anyone providing weatherization services should consider an Infra Red camera as the sharpest tool in the box.
