Infrared Low-Slope Roof Inspections

Insulated low-slope roofs are the best candidates. Around the Bay Area that mostly means modified bitumen and TPO, with some PVC and a shrinking number of older built-up roofs.

California's Title 24 energy code pushes new and replacement roofs toward reflective cool-roof materials, which absorb less daytime heat. We plan our survey timing and approach around the specific materials used, whatever they may be.

Anything from a few thousand square feet to several hundred thousand. Large roofs are where the drone really pays off, capturing the whole surface in an overhead view instead of hours of walking.

Because the best thermal window only lasts a certain time after sunset very large roofs or multi-building sites may be spread across more than one evening.

We survey in the evening, once the roof starts to cool after an acceptable amount of solar loading (heat) throughout the day. The surface has to be dry, so we avoid the days right after rain.

Late spring through fall is the most reliable window, although even winter surveys can work between storms. Coastal fog and a heavy marine layer can cut solar loading or leave dew on the roof, so we watch the forecast closely.

No. The thermal scan is completely non-destructive, and impedance testing simply passes a meter over the surface. Nothing is cut or opened, and the only thing we leave behind is the marking around confirmed wet areas. Because we work in the evening, there's little to no disruption to tenants or operations.

It's generally our first choice. A drone flight captures the whole roof in an easy to see overhead view and keeps us off fragile areas. When flying isn't practical because of airspace restrictions, obstructions or site rules, we survey on foot with a handheld thermal camera. In either case suspect areas are verified on the ground with impedance testing.

A visual inspection looks at the membrane, flashing, drains and details you can see. Infrared looks for moisture that has already gotten in, often under a membrane that looks perfectly fine. The two work best together to reveal the bigger picture of what is happening, which is why the scan pairs well with a commercial inspection or PCA.

Yes. Findings are documented with thermal and visible-light images, impedance verification and survey conditions per ASTM C1153, which gives manufacturers, adjusters and contractors something concrete to work from. Whether a specific claim is covered depends on the warranty or policy terms.

It depends on roof size, the number of roof sections, access, airspace and whether the survey is paired with other work. Either way, it typically costs a small fraction of a tear-off. Request a proposal with the property address and we'll put together a quote.