What is thermal imaging and what does it find in a home inspection?
Quick answer: Thermal imaging uses an infrared camera to detect temperature differences on surfaces, revealing things invisible to the eye. In a Bloomington home it can reveal missing or wet insulation, air leaks, hidden moisture from plumbing or roof leaks, overheating electrical connections, and the heat-loss patterns behind ice dams. It does not see through walls, it reads surface temperature, but in our climate it is a valuable tool for spotting energy loss and moisture problems early.
Infrared is especially useful in Minnesota winters when indoor and outdoor temperatures differ sharply. That contrast makes air leaks, missing insulation, and cold spots show up clearly, helping diagnose why a home is drafty or prone to ice dams.
For moisture, a thermal camera highlights cool, evaporating areas where water may be present behind drywall or under flooring. The inspector then confirms with a moisture meter, since temperature differences can have other causes.
Thermal scanning can also flag warm spots at electrical panels and connections that hint at loose or overloaded circuits. It is a screening tool that points the inspector toward areas needing closer evaluation, adding depth to a standard inspection.
