Infrared Inspections in San Francisco, CA
Infrared Inspections in San Francisco, CA

If your due diligence process calls for thorough and affordable building inspections in San Francisco, CA, consider the expertise of Building Diagnostics Group. We can identify abnormalities that may otherwise go undetected before they turn in to widespread damages and potentially costly failures.

Building Diagnostics Group (BDG) is a multifaceted consulting firm with extensive experience in the non-destructive detection, investigation, and resolution of water intrusions. Robert Scherer, President of BDG, has over 25 years of residential and commercial construction experience and is a pioneer in the field of moisture intrusion and building defect investigations with the use of infrared thermography.

We have the ability to identify potential hidden defects in many different cladding systems, from single coat stucco systems, to Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS), to siding. We are often the first to identify signs of a potentially larger problem because water intrusion from the exterior of a building can take years to show up on the interior, at which point extensive damage has already been done.

Infrared Thermography (IR)

Infrared thermography (IR) is the use of specialized equipment to measure the thermal energy emitted from an object. Thermal energy is light that is invisible because its wavelength is too long to be detected by the human eye.

Infrared (IR) cameras, also called thermographic scanners and thermal imaging devices, measure the intensity of thermal energy being emitted by the object it is aimed at. The ability to see temperature differences can instantly detect whether water has penetrated a building envelope and provide the evidence you need to undertake repairs before a problem gets out of hand.

Infrared cameras produce images of raw data, and proper interpretation requires training and years of experience. High-resolution camera systems can detect even the slightest thermal patterns, but low resolution or low-cost cameras are less sensitive. Before you choose a thermographer, check their credentials and ensure they have the proper equipment and expertise to perform your inspection.

Case Study

Robert Scherer presented and published a white paper on “Infrared Thermography for Exterior Cladding Systems” based on an inspection in Jacksonville, Florida, during which BDG’s highly specialized technicians discovered more than $1.8 million dollars in hidden sheathing damage in 18 of 25 multi-family apartment buildings.

The apartment complex had recently undergone a complete exterior paint and sealant renovation and appeared to be in above average condition. Although the renovations made the buildings appear new, our inspection found that this was not the case. Our final report gave our client, the prospective buyer of the complex, the ability to successfully negotiate repairs prior to closing the deal.

Infrared inspections performed by Building Diagnostics Group can find problem areas within any structure and provide clients in San Francisco, CA with information about the structural integrity of buildings they own or intend to invest in. Contact us today at (888) 317-4568 for a quote or additional information.