Infrared inspection (thermography) can be defined as the detection and measurement of emitted thermal energy (heat). This is enabled by the use of an infrared camera, which translates the invisible infrared spectrum into a visual format, or thermal image.  This thermal image can then be interpreted to provide a noninvasive and nondestructive method of identifying building defects and deficiencies. In addition to finding problems, infrared inspections are useful for clearance purposes and also to confirm that previously determined issues have been properly corrected or remediated.

Sample infrared image: below are sample images of the same area (visual image at left and thermal image at right). Nothing is apparent when looking at the visual image, but missing insulation is very apparent in the thermal image.  Lighter colors represent progressively warmer temperatures (areas of missing insulation), while darker colors represent progressively cooler temperatures.