Wall Assembly and Ceiling Air, Moisture and Water Problems
Several different energy-loss, water-leakage and moisture problems can arise from poorly designed or poorly constructed commercial-building wall assemblies. With infrared camera detection we can diagnose all of them.
Water Penetration
Water can penetrate exterior wall masonry and mortar and become a problem in climates where there are many freeze-thaw cycles. The continual formation and expansion of ice causes it to act as tiny levers that eventually break down the mortar joints and wall components. Then water can enter interior wall assemblies and create damage as it drains downward to interior floor slabs. Interior wall deterioration is one symptom of this problem.
Thermal Bridges
Building envelopes often contain numerous highly heat-conductive elements called thermal bridges. An un-insulated metal window frame is a good example of a thermal bridge. These thermal bridges can loss heating and cooling energy depending on the season.
Condensation
Warm interior moist air condenses when the external temperature is below the dew point. A vapor barrier in a wall assembly will prevent this moisture from condensing. When the outside temperature is low, older buildings without vapor barriers or with defective barriers permit condensation within walls when the outside temperature is low. This condensation decreases the R value of the wall’s insulation increasing energy costs. Condensation can also lead to deterioration of the wall and repair expenses or costly replacement.
Infrared surveys conducted by Infrared Building Diagnostics can spot all these problem areas.
If you are experiencing leaks, moisture, or energy loss, see for yourself with our high resolution color infrared equipment. Call us for a speedy, cost-effective solution to your problem.
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