For many homeowners, water damage is always a major concern. Even a minor leak can lead to mold and mildew growth inside the walls or damage the electrical system in the living room. However, detecting those leaks can be difficult, especially if they’re slow moving. An infrared (IR) camera inspection is one of the easiest ways to identify possible leaks and address damage those leaks caused as quickly as possible. Here’s what you need to know about the inspection and when it’s the right tool for the job.

How Do Infrared Camera Inspections Work?

Infrared cameras create images based on the temperatures of walls, items, floors, and ceilings throughout the house. This allows the technician to identify areas where water may be actively leaking or collecting. During the inspection, the technician will take two sets of images—one with a normal camera and one with the IR camera. This allows you to correlate any visible damage with the damage detected by the IR camera.

Areas with active leaks will typically show up as a colder temperature than the rest of the room. On the IR camera, this will be indicated by a different shade than the rest of the image. Colder temperatures typically show up as purple and red while hotter temperatures are typically orange and yellow. This stark contrast makes it simple to pinpoint leaks.

When Is an Inspection Needed?

If you suspect water damage in your house or are interested in purchasing a new home, an infrared camera inspection can help you identify the source of any active leaks. This helps you assess whether or not the home is a sound investment and allows you and the repair technician to identify areas of concern, so they can be repaired quickly.

After an infrared camera inspection, it’s best to take care of the water damage immediately. The team at America’s Best Cleaning & Restoration Services, serving the Greater La Crosse County, WI, area, is happy to help get your home back in shape quickly. Whether you need water damage restoration or want significant mold remediation throughout the house after a major leak, they’re just a phone call away. Learn more about their services online, and call (608) 782-6995 to schedule an appointment.