Builders could quickly identify issues with properties using thermal imaging technology.
A project from iRed in conjunction with the University of Portsmouth shows that specialist infrared cameras can quickly detect heat loss issues in buildings, including air leakage, missing insulation and problems caused by construction oversight.
Based in Emsworth near Portsmouth, iRed has partnered with the university to assess and improve energy efficiency in new homes. With both builders and residents seeking well-built, energy efficient and insulated homes, a simple survey can identify any problems before properties are signed off.
The partnership is through the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), a part government-funded programme designed to encourage collaboration between businesses and universities. iRed’s managing director Ray Faulkner has worked closely with the university for some years and he said: “Our aim with this partnership is to create a simple, accurate, standardised and easy-to-use mechanism that can establish whether newly built houses are as efficient as the design claims.”
Just a small gap in insulation can result in big issues, ultimately leading to huge costs in order to fix them.
Marcus Dawe, operations director for iRed, added: “The developers and the residents both want the same thing. And for a small expense, compared with the overall cost of a house or flat, a thermal imaging survey can uncover any hidden problems.
“The cost of these surveys has plummeted in recent years, and can help prevent a lot of wasted time and money. The builders and developers we work with find our surveys invaluable, as it enables them to solve problems and issues before residents move in.
“Small errors can cause huge issues, meaning residents suffer and the developer has to undertake costly repairs. Thermal imaging surveys are completely non-destructive, and at a similar cost to a homebuyer’s report, are the most effective way to assess a property’s thermal performance.
“We deliver thermal surveys across the country, but we also help to equip building professionals at our training centre with the skills and equipment needed to carry out the surveys themselves. We believe that with the low cost to developers and homeowners, thermal imaging technology should be embraced across industry.”
