At CCW Surveys, we are committed to identifying the root causes of your property's energy inefficiency and providing expert recommendations for a comfortable, energy-efficient living environment.
Our Thermal Imaging Survey offers an in-depth analysis of heat loss in your building, as well as the locations and severity of draughts and damp. Utilising a high-resolution (462x348 pixels) and highly sensitive (0.03 Celsius) thermal camera, we conduct a thorough inspection to uncover hidden issues.
Upon completing the survey, we provide you with a comprehensive report, including a summary of our findings and tailored recommendations for improvement.
Conveniently based in Berkshire, CCW Surveys offers services across the South-East. Contact us today to embark on your journey towards a more energy-efficient and comfortable property.
Residential and Commercial thermal heat loss survey specialists
What Issues Can a Thermal Imaging Survey Reveal?
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Missing / Defective Insulation
The blue, square regions in the image signify heat loss from improperly installed insulation. The white circles represent down-lights, indicating that insulation was disturbed during installation. This recurring issue throughout the property contributed to mould formation caused by cold spots.
The image highlights the importance of insulation being tightly fitted, even slight voids can drastically reduce the effectiveness. In addition, it is common to find, for example, cavity wall insulation sagging over time or reduced effectiveness due to moisture. -
Air leakage / Draughts
While thermal cameras can not see air movement, they can detect the impact this has on the temperature of the surrounding surfaces.
The blue colours around the frame represent significant air in-filtration. Although double or triple glazing significantly enhances a home's energy efficiency, deterioration of the frame over time or improper installation can greatly diminish their effectiveness. Further issues resulting in draughts can be found throughout properties, whether new or old.
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Thermal Bridging
Thermal bridging, or cold bridging, occurs in building areas that facilitate rapid heat transfer, commonly seen around window and door lintels or wall junctions.
The image depicts an external wall corner and ceiling junction in a top-floor bedroom, where reduced temperatures are typical due to geometric thermal bridging and exposure. However, missing cavity wall insulation and defective eave insulation, combined with thermal bridging, led to significant heat loss and mould formation.
Thermal imaging is the only method for identifying thermal bridging in buildings, often a major undiagnosed cause of heat loss.
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Damp / Moisture
Wet materials and insulation result in significant increased heat flow. This, as well as waters’ unique properties, allows for thermal imaging to identify damp / moisture issues.
The image above shows substantial areas of heat loss in the ceiling due to multiple leaks in the roof. A moisture meter was also used to provide additional verification.
What are the Benefits of a Thermal Imaging Survey?
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Cost Savings
One of the primary benefits of a thermal imaging survey is cost savings. Heating and cooling our homes accounts for an average of 63% of total residential energy usage, and cooling costs are forecast to continue increasing. By identifying areas of heat loss, draughts and damp, a thermal imaging survey can help you reduce your energy requirements and lower your bills.
By providing an in-depth understanding of heat loss and faults, a thermal imaging survey can also help you prioritise energy efficiency measures, allowing you to select the most cost-effective measures first. -
Comfort and Wellbeing
Another benefit of a thermal imaging survey is improved comfort and wellbeing. A well-insulated building, free from faults, can help you maintain a stable ambient temperature, creating a cosy and comfortable environment for you and your family. Extended periods in cold and damp conditions can be highly detrimental to our health, and cold spots are also a major cause of mould formation.
By heating and cooling our homes more efficiently, we can reduce wasted energy and associated emissions and pollution, contributing to a healthier planet.
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Early Detection of Issues
A thermal imaging survey can also help you detect issues early, before they become major problems. For example, the survey can identify areas where insulation is missing or defective, where air infiltration is occurring, and where moisture is present. By addressing these issues early, you can prevent more serious problems from developing, such as structural damage, mould growth, and health issues.
In addition, identifying potential issues prior to a whole-house retrofit or individual energy efficiency upgrades can significantly reduce unexpected delays and costs while narrowing the gap between predicted and actual energy performance.
Understanding heat movement within a building depends on optimal conditions. For heat loss surveys, ideal weather conditions occur between September and April, with at least a 10°C temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, and no rain or strong winds.
To prepare for the survey, heat the building to at least 18°C for 12 hours beforehand, keep windows closed, and clear obstacles in front of exterior walls (within reason). The most suitable time for a survey is before sunrise, though evening surveys are possible on overcast days to avoid the sun's heat masking potential issues.
Survey Requirements
and what’s needed from you
Thermal Imaging -
Under Floor Heating Survey
Utilising our highly sensitive thermal imaging camera, CCW Surveys can accurately locate and assess the performance of your underfloor heating pipes in a completely non-destructive manner.
Our thermal imaging service is advantageous in various scenarios:
Flood or Major Water Damage: To dry the sub-floor, drilling holes for installing drying equipment is often required. Knowing the precise location of your underfloor heating system helps avoid potential damage during this process.
Refurbishment: Modifying your property's internal layout, such as walls or fittings, can be challenging when underfloor heating locations are unknown. Our thermal imaging service ensures you can proceed with confidence during renovations.
Poor Performance: If your underfloor heating system is underperforming, issues such as blockages or improper installation may be the cause. Our thermal imaging assessment can identify these problems, allowing for targeted improvements.
Contact us today to schedule a thermal imaging assessment and gain the insights you need for optimal performance and peace of mind.
Contact Us
Please contact us below or email info@ccwsurveys.co.uk, for more information, a sample report or a no obligation quote.