Thermal Imaging

Some of the most serious home problems are the ones you cannot see. Hidden moisture, missing insulation, electrical hotspots, and air leaks often go unnoticed until they cause costly damage. At Oregon NW Home Inspection, our Thermal Imaging (Infrared Scanning) service helps uncover these issues quickly and safely—giving you a deeper look into your home’s condition.

We proudly serve homeowners across Northwest & Central Oregon with cutting-edge infrared technology that reveals what traditional inspections sometimes miss. Whether you are buying a home, selling one, or maintaining your property, thermal imaging provides clarity, accuracy, and peace of mind.

What Is Thermal Imaging?

Thermal Imaging uses an infrared camera to capture temperature differences in surfaces and materials. These temperature patterns help us identify potential issues behind walls, ceilings, floors, and other areas that are not visible to the naked eye.



This technology is non-invasive, meaning we do not cut into walls or damage materials. Instead, the infrared camera detects heat signatures that reveal hidden concerns.

Thermal Imaging Helps Identify:

• Moisture and water leaks
  
  
• Missing or damaged insulation
  
  
• Electrical overheating or hotspots
  
  
• Air leaks and energy loss
  
  
• HVAC distribution problems
  
  
• Roof leaks
  
  
• Pest intrusion areas
  
  
• Hidden structural concerns
  
  

Thermal scanning gives you a more accurate understanding of your home’s overall health.

Why Thermal Imaging Is Essential

Many home issues remain hidden until they become major repairs. Thermal imaging helps us detect these concerns early, saving you time, money, and stress.

Benefits of Thermal Imaging:

• Detects problems early
  
  
• Helps prevent mold growth
  
  
• Improves energy efficiency
  
  
• Identifies safety hazards
  
  
• Enhances the accuracy of your home inspection
  
  
• Provides visual evidence for repairs
  
  

When combined with a full home inspection, thermal imaging creates a more complete and detailed picture of your property.

What We Can See with Thermal Imaging

Our infrared camera technology allows us to capture heat patterns that point to potential problems. Here are the most common issues we detect:

1. Hidden Moisture & Water Damage

Moisture behind walls or ceilings is one of the biggest threats to a home. It can lead to:



• Mold growth
  
  
• Rotting wood
  
  
• Damaged drywall
  
  
• Structural weakening
  
  

Thermal imaging helps us spot moisture pockets that otherwise go undetected. Early detection protects your home from costly damage.

2. Insulation Gaps or Damage

Missing or poorly installed insulation can lead to:

• High energy bills
  
  
• Uneven temperatures
  
  
• Reduced comfort
  
  

We use thermal imaging to identify insulation gaps in:



• Attics
  
  
• Walls
  
  
• Floors
  
  
• Crawlspaces
  
  

This helps homeowners improve energy efficiency and comfort.

3. Electrical Hotspots

Electrical problems are a serious safety concern. Infrared scans can detect:



• Overheated circuits
  
  
• Faulty wiring
  
  
• Loose electrical connections
  
  
• Overloaded breakers
  
  

By identifying these issues early, we help reduce the risk of electrical fires.

4. Air Leaks & Drafts

Air leaks around:



• Doors
  
  
• Windows
  
  
• Vents
  
  
• Siding
  
  
• Attic access points
  
  

can cause thermal loss and higher utility bills. Thermal imaging identifies where conditioned air is escaping so you can make effective repairs.

5. Roof Leaks

Infrared scanning helps locate:



• Active water intrusion
  
  
• Roof insulation problems
  
  
• Moisture trapped under roofing materials
  
  

Detecting roof issues early helps prevent ceiling damage and mold growth.

Our Thermal Imaging Process

At Oregon NW Home Inspection, we use infrared technology as part of our commitment to thorough, accurate inspections.

1. Full Infrared Scan of Key Areas

We scan areas such as:



• Walls
  
  
• Ceilings
  
  
• Floors
  
  
• Electrical panels
  
  
• Attics
  
  
• Exterior surfaces
  
  
• HVAC components
  
  

This helps us capture temperature differences that point to potential issues.

2. Identification of Abnormal Patterns

Our certified inspectors examine the thermal images to identify:

• Cold spots (possible moisture)
  
  
• Hot spots (possible electrical issues)
  
  
• Gaps in insulation
  
  
• Thermal bridging
  

3. Verification with Additional Tools

If thermal imaging reveals a concern, we verify with:



• Moisture meters
  
  
• Electrical testers
  
  
• Visual inspection
  
  
• HVAC evaluations
  
  

This ensures our findings are accurate and reliable.

4. Detailed Reporting

Your inspection report includes:



• Infrared images
  
  
• Explanations of findings
  
  
• Areas affected
  
  
• Recommended next steps
  
  

The visual evidence helps you understand the issue clearly and communicate with repair professionals.

Who Benefits from Thermal Imaging?

Thermal imaging is helpful for:

Homebuyers

Get a more complete picture of the home before closing.

Homeowners

Identify hidden maintenance issues early.

Home Sellers

Show transparency and reduce the risk of surprises after listing.

Real Estate Agents

Provide clients with a high-quality, modern inspection experience.

Property Investors

Protect investment properties and rental units from hidden problems.

Why Choose Oregon NW Home Inspection?

We bring top-level expertise and the latest technology to every inspection.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Certified infrared inspectors
  
  
• Advanced thermal imaging cameras
  
  
• Combined experience in identifying hidden issues
  
  
• Clear, photo-rich reporting
  
  
• Honest communication and no scare tactics
  
  
• Fast scheduling and reliable service
  
  
• Local knowledge of NW Oregon homes
  
  

Your home deserves more than a basic inspection. Our thermal imaging helps uncover the truth behind the walls.

Frequently Asked Questions