Detect hidden defects through thermal signatures
Infrared Thermography
Infrared thermography captures thermal radiation emitted by surfaces to create detailed temperature maps. Subsurface defects — moisture, delamination, voids, insulation gaps — create measurable temperature differentials that our thermal cameras detect from a distance.
This technique is particularly valuable for building envelope assessment, roof moisture surveys, and detecting hidden moisture ingress in concrete and masonry structures. Unlike invasive testing, thermography covers large areas rapidly without any contact or damage to the structure.
SiteOps deploys high-resolution thermal cameras (640×512 pixel uncooled microbolometer, <0.05°C sensitivity) with qualified thermographers who understand structural science. Our reports include annotated thermal images, defect mapping, severity classification, and remediation recommendations.
For facade investigations, thermography is performed under appropriate thermal conditions — typically during solar heating or nocturnal cooling phases when thermal contrasts are maximised. Combined with drone deployment, IRT can survey all four facades of a high-rise building in a single day.
Key Features
- •Moisture ingress detection and migration path mapping
- •Delamination and debonding identification in renders and tiles
- •Building envelope thermal performance assessment
- •Roof moisture surveys covering large areas rapidly
- •Electrical fault detection (overheating connections)
- •Insulation deficiency mapping
- •Post-repair bond verification
- •Drone-mounted thermal surveys for high-rise facades
Standards
Applications
- •Facade investigation
- •Roof condition assessment
- •Moisture damage investigation
- •Electrical infrastructure
- •Heritage building survey
- •Post-repair verification
- •Waterproofing failure detection
- •Energy audit support
Stack & equipment
Technologies used
Case experience
Related projects
CommercialMelbourne, VIC
140 William Street Facade Investigation
Multi-phase facade investigation at 140 William Street to support structural and facade engineering assessment with staged evidence delivery.
View project
ResidentialRobina, QLD
Varsity Towers Structural Investigation
Comprehensive investigation of Varsity Towers focused on deflection-critical elements, as-built detailing, and concrete and reinforcement testing to support remediation planning.
View projectFAQ
Common questions about Infrared Thermography
When is thermography most effective?+
Thermography requires a temperature differential between the structure and its surroundings. Ideal conditions include clear skies, low wind (<15 km/h), and a period of solar heating or nocturnal cooling. In Southeast Queensland, early morning surveys (before 9am) or late afternoon (after 3pm) typically provide the best thermal contrast. SiteOps schedules surveys to coincide with optimal conditions.
Can IRT replace invasive moisture testing?+
IRT identifies areas of likely moisture presence through thermal anomalies, but it does not quantify moisture content. SiteOps uses thermography as a screening tool to identify zones of concern, then confirms findings with targeted invasive testing (moisture meters, core extraction) where necessary. This approach dramatically reduces the number of invasive test points required.
How large an area can be surveyed in one day?+
Ground-based thermography can survey 500–2,000m² of facade area per day depending on building geometry and access. Drone-mounted thermography increases coverage to 5,000–10,000m² per day. A typical 20-storey commercial tower — all four facades — can be surveyed in a single day using drone-based IRT.
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