Thermal imaging surveys (often known as “thermographic surveys”) have become a game changer in assessing building standards, particularly for residential properties and businesses with commercial or industrial properties. Thermal imaging surveys traditionally use handheld thermal cameras, but in recent years have advanced with the evolution of drone technology with thermal drone surveys, which can offer a much more in-depth and detailed survey. Thermal imaging surveys provide us with valuable insight that is invisible to the naked eye, creating a digital image which displays the distribution of heat in a targeted area.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about thermal imaging surveys, including how they work, their diverse uses, and the benefits they offer!
Thermal imaging involves a process where heat signatures are detected and visualised, using thermal cameras; every object emits some level of infrared radiation, and the intensity of that radiation increases with temperature. These heat signatures are detected through the infrared band of the electromagnetic spectrum, causing the colour variations that are seen in images produced by thermal cameras - warmer areas appear in bright colours (such as red, orange, or yellow), and cooler areas are shown in darker colours (like blue or purple).
Thermal imaging surveys are widely used for many different purposes, with some of the most common applications including:
The use of thermal imaging provides several benefits for businesses and homeowners, such as:
Thermal drones offer distinct advantages over handheld thermal cameras, particularly in terms of efficiency, coverage, and safety; it is no surprise that more people are making the shift to thermal imaging drone surveys. Some of these advantages include:
There are several steps that drone operators such as ourselves take when tasked with conducting a thermal survey on your property. Typically, we follow these 5 key steps to ensure a quick, straightforward process, getting you your results as soon as possible.
The price of a thermographic survey using a drone depends on several factors. For example, the geographical location and size of the property being inspected will impact the price considerably; small properties with straightforward reporting needs will be cheaper, compared to large industrial sites.
For the most accurate pricing, please contact us to discuss your needs.
There is no “one size fits all” answer to how often you need a thermal imaging survey - it largely depends on the business type, the age of the property, and how recently you received a refurbishment. It is advised for surveys to be conducted before and after any exterior maintenance, or following any significant events such as storms or fires. If no major events have occurred, the general guideline is an annual inspection.
Thermal imaging surveys are important for any residential, commercial, or industrial property, and through the use of drones, they have become much easier and more accurate.
At Full View, we offer a service that is fast, accurate, and above all, honest; since we do not offer a repair service, we have no vested interest in finding damage that doesn’t exist! For any queries, please get in touch with us and we’ll do our best to answer them.
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