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image camera manufacturers in the world, has even devel-
oped a thermal imaging camera that attaches to your iPhone!
While the technology can be fun to play around with, when
it comes to diagnosing building envelope deficiencies, a certi-
fied professional in thermal imaging should be sought. It takes
experience and knowledge of the camera’s parameters to
properly collect and interpret the data. Without this experience
and knowledge, misinterpretations of the data can occur and
ultimately miss the cause or the issue altogether.
Recently, Flir
®
has developed a tiered certification pro-
cess through thermal imaging educational courses. Just like
in other areas of the construction industry, certifications and
licenses are required to reach a certain level of expertise
and knowledge that associations can rely on.
While infrared technology introduces an entirely different
and beneficial form of visual observation by the inspector,
it should be noted that the technology does not completely
replace the need for invasive (destructive) inspections.
Ultimately, the camera should be used as a preliminary
INFRARED...
from page 43.
visual observation
device which dis-
covers areas of
concern within the
building cladding
system before the
removal of materi-
als. Following the
discovery of the problematic area through the lens of the
camera, the conventional method of removing materials at
the areas noted by the thermography should occur to doc-
ument the damages, the original installation methods and
conduct the proper repairs.
Remember, the infrared camera is another tool in the
inspector’s tool box just like a tape measure and level.
Where this tool differs from the majority of others used
during inspections is the training and experience that is
required along with it. The inspector collecting and study-
ing the data must be able to interpret exactly what is being
portrayed. Associations should seek a firm that has certified
thermographers on staff to perform the inspections and ulti-
mately diagnose the building deficiencies.
n
Spotlight On Service
With great respect for those who serve our country, the Editorial
Committee of CAI-NJ is seeking spotlights on service members. This may
include active, or inactive members of the United States Armed Forces.
Please take this opportunity to spotlight someone you know and help
the CAI-NJ community recognize and thank them for their service to our
country.
Criteria
1. Must be a member of the United States Armed Forces, active, inactive or has served.
2. Must be either a:
a. Member of CAI-NJ (Manager, Board Member, Business Partner or Business Partner
Employee)
b. A parent, spouse or child or a CAI-NJ member (classified above)
3. Must include 500 to 1,000 words about their service along with a photo
Submissions may be self-authored by service members or written on their behalf.
For questions or to submit a “Spotlight on Service” contact Jaclyn Olszewski at
jaclyn@cainj.org.
"The data collected through
a thermal imaging camera
inspection can exhibit issues
that are simply not visible
with a naked eye."