Beaconsfield Together September October 2022

WHY THERMOGRAPHY IS THE ‘W
FOR REDUCING HE
and improving the quality and efficiency of insulation methods as
part of the conservation of traditional, older and ancient buildings
by Robert Tiffin, Eco Tiffin Ltd
It might not seem entirely intuitive to consider the
use of modern technology when working with
traditional and ancient buildings. However, building
conservation should make use of all the knowledge,
skills and disciplines at its disposal and it would be
a big mistake to dismiss thermography, especially
now, with energy costs predicted to be capped at
£2,800 a year for the average home by October
2022.
Thermography is the use of thermal infrared
imaging to identify heat loss contributing building
defects such as dampness and its sources. It is
a non-destructive technique that is ideal when
working with older, complex buildings that have so
many elements to them. Indeed, it is impossible to
make a full and accurate assessment of their state
of repair without recourse thermography in the
hands of a seasoned building professional.
A condition survey incorporating an analysis of
all heat loss areas, building defects and drafts in
relation to the current or proposed use of any building
is a prerequisite for the correct identification and
specification of any insulation (retrofit) works needed,
well before their approval and commencement.
Identifying the exact type of structure and its fabric
enables us to determine its thermal envelope, how
good or bad it is at retaining the warm air that is so
expensive to heat, and therefore form a strategy on
how best to reduce it.
More than any other technology, the thermal
images shown here shows the interplay of moisture,
heat and ventilation continuously unfolding in any
building. It allows us to better understand/see what
is going on, explain it and make better informed
decisions when prioritising the allocation of everlimited
resources. Which means we should be
thinking of thermography as a sixth sense that we
are very lucky to have.
Because of the highly visual, immediate
nature of the thermal survey, it offers a relatively
inexpensive and non-invasive way of helping
clients and other stakeholders understand the
significance of heat loss and potential problems
Uninsulated light tube
Poorly installed cavity wall
insulation
Poorly fitted horizontal loft
insulation
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and find out more
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