Puritan Flood Restoration was recently called to the Willie Ross School for the Deaf, to inspect their offices for possible damage caused by a roof leak. The school staff knew that there had been some water intrusion but did not know to what extent, as there were no lasting visible signs of water damage.
A Puritan inspector was dispatched to the school to conduct a thorough investigation. During the preliminary inspection, everything appeared to be fine from an outward visual perspective. However, when the inspector assessed the situation by using a thermal imaging camera for a more in-depth look into what really might be going on in the walls and ceiling, he found that water and moisture had infiltrated the walls.
According to Puritan Flood principal Paul Daniele, this high-tech thermal imaging camera (also called an infrared camera) "uses a different spectrum of light which can see things undetected by the human eye. The camera identifies differences in temperatures, greatly aiding us in finding water because as water evaporates it cools and the camera identifies this water very easily. Once detected, technicians can then set up drying equipment only on those areas found to be wet."
After detecting elevated moisture content in some of the school's office walls, Puritan's Inspector immediately dispatched technicians from the company's Needham-based headquarters to the school where they set up dehumidifying equipment and air movers to start the drying process. Within a very short period of time the walls and ceiling were dry and the school's administration office was back to normal.
Because the school was proactive by taking the necessary steps to determine if they had water damage issues and dealing with them so promptly, they greatly minimized any potential future issues.
Using the infrared camera as a diagnostic tool in flood restoration allows you to "see" through walls, pipes, ceilings and other hidden parts of a structure. Using this technology saves time and money and prevents harmful long-term consequences related to water damage—including heath issues—from developing.
"Infrared thermographic inspection techniques are an accurate and non-invasive way to monitor and diagnose the condition of buildings," Daniele said. "If you think you have a water problem, this technology can give you the information you need quickly and with precision."
Puritan Flood Restoration Founded in 1987, is one of the leading restorative drying company in New England and a pioneer on the national scene. Puritan principals Paul and Christopher Daniele are recognized authorities in restorative drying for real property applications.