Thermography is a non-contact measurement method used to record and visualize surface temperatures through infrared measurement. Using a thermal imaging camera, temperature differences are displayed as thermograms or thermal images in order to make thermal anomalies in buildings and technical systems visible.
Why is thermography important?
- Making heat loss visible: Weak points in the building envelope can be identified quickly.
- Planning renovations more precisely: Measures can be prioritized based on objective building data.
- Detecting building damage early: Indications of moisture, leaks or mould risks become visible.
- Assessing buildings efficiently: Thermography complements energy analyses and energy consulting.
- Simplifying documentation: Results can be visualized and archived in a traceable way.
Typical process of building thermography
- Preparation of the measurement
- Checking the weather conditions
- Recording thermograms with the thermal imaging camera
- Documenting the measurement parameters
- Evaluating the results
Professional thermography takes both the environmental conditions and the building construction into account.
Requirements for reliable thermography results
For meaningful measurements, the following conditions are important, among others:
- sufficient temperature difference between inside and outside
- no direct sunlight
- dry facade surfaces
- documented measurement parameters
- professional interpretation
Common mistakes
- Carrying out measurements under unsuitable weather conditions
- Interpreting thermograms without knowledge of the building construction
- Assessing reflections on glass or metal surfaces as defects
- Missing documentation of the measurement conditions
- Analysing thermal images without additional building data
Thermography vs. Thermal analysis
- Thermography generates the measurement data from the recorded infrared radiation.
- Thermal analysis evaluates this data and derives conclusions and recommended actions from it.
FAQ
What is thermography?
Thermography is a non-contact method for displaying surface temperatures using a thermal imaging camera.
Can thermography detect thermal bridges?
Yes. Temperature differences on facades, windows or component connections can indicate thermal bridges.
When does thermography make sense?
Before energy-related renovations, during energy consulting, for quality assurance or for analysing moisture and heat loss.
Can thermography see through walls?
No. Thermography only measures surface temperatures. Statements about components behind the surface require professional interpretation.