How does thermal imaging for termites work?
Thermal imaging for termites is an effective way of looking for any evidence of termite activity within a property. It is generally more involved than people think and isn’t quite as simple as holding up the thermal imaging camera and scanning the house for termites. As the thermal imaging camera needs to be used in conjunction with other tools to increase the accuracy of the inspection.
In this blog, we’ll take you through how thermal imaging for termites work, what else is involved and what to do should termites be found.
How do thermal imaging cameras work?
A thermal camera is a non-contact device that detects infrared energy (heat) and converts it into a visual image (Flir 2021). This means thermal imaging cameras use heat to make pictures rather than visual light like normal cameras. Using this technology, our building and pest inspectors have a greater chance of finding anomalies that may not be visible to the human eye. Such as termites hiding behind walls or a water leak.
Thermal imaging for termites
Thermal imaging for termites involves using the infrared camera to help detect the presence of termites within a property. It does this by detecting the unusual heat patterns that are emitted when termites consume timber and congregate together. As such, the thermal imaging camera doesn’t see the termites themselves but rather the heat source they create.
It’s this heat source that the pest inspector is predominantly looking for when scanning the house with the thermal imaging camera. In particular, the inspector is looking to identify significant changes in temperature which could indicate something is wrong. For example, if a heat patch is identified behind the wall, it could indicate a termite nest. Whereas an abnormal cold area could indicate a damp or hollowed-out timber created from past termite activity.
It should always be used in conjunction with other tools
Thermal imaging cameras should always be used in conjunction with other tools during building and pest inspections. The reason for this is that the thermal imaging camera only shows the differences in temperature and a general outline of the hot/cold pattern – not what the actual object is. By using other tools in conjunction with the thermal imaging camera the chances of an accurate diagnosis are greatly increased.
At Local Inspections, our inspectors also use a sounding tool and moisture meter to confirm evidence of termites. The sounding tool helps our inspectors identify hollow sounds in timber which is a sign of termites or termite damage within a property.
Termites also produce moisture as they consume timber and turn it into their termite mudding and nests. That’s why a moisture meter is helpful in detecting evidence of termites in conjunction with a thermal imaging camera. The moisture meter also helps to identify areas of high moisture which is a conducive condition for termites as they love damp areas.
What if termites are found during the inspection?
Whether it’s a building and pest inspection or an annual timber inspection, the inspector will provide recommendations should termites be found. Treatment for termites generally includes a spot treatment on the live termites and a chemical termite barrier for prevention.
Don't let termites move into your home! Get annual timber pest inspections.
Australian Standards 3660.2 recommends having your home checked for termites at least once a year. Termites can remain hidden in your home for some time whilst quietly eating it away because they are such elusive creatures that love dark spaces. Getting an annual timber pest inspection gives you peace of mind and ensures any termite activity is detected early – before they cause significant damage to your home.
Have peace of mind with Local Inspections
At Local Inspections, our inspectors are highly trained and experienced with over 30+ years within the building industry. They know what to look for in a property and will check for any evidence of termites in your home. We guarantee a thorough inspection, fast turnaround times with reports and competitive prices.
We provide building and pest inspections, annual timber pest inspections and practical completion inspections in Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Maryborough, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast. If you would like to know more or want to book, give us a call via the button below!