Infrared Technology
Infrared Technology | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Philadelphia
Imagine peering beneath every shingle without lifting a single one—HEP brings that futuristic experience to Philadelphia today. Our certified technicians sweep your roof with advanced infrared sensors, revealing trapped moisture, insulation voids, and hidden storm damage that ordinary flashlights miss. The result is a crystal-clear thermal map that tells the real story of your roof’s health, saving you from guesswork, unnecessary tear-offs, and expensive surprises once the next Nor’easter rolls through.
Homeowners, facility managers, and real-estate pros alike rely on our precise roof inspections to gain leverage in negotiations, validate insurance claims, and plan smart maintenance budgets. With same-day digital reports, vivid imagery, and action-ready recommendations, HEP turns what used to be a stressful chore into an empowering decision-making tool—keeping Philadelphia properties safer, drier, and more energy-efficient all year long.
FAQs
What is an infrared roof inspection and how does it work?
An infrared roof inspection uses a specialized thermal-imaging camera to measure the minute temperature differences across the roof surface after sunset. Areas where moisture has infiltrated insulation or the roof deck retain heat longer than dry areas, so they appear as hot "anomalies" on the camera. Our certified thermographers walk the roof (or fly a drone, when appropriate), record the thermal images, and create a detailed report that pinpoints any wet insulation, membrane breaches, or trapped moisture without removing a single fastener or roofing layer.
Why is infrared scanning especially valuable for roofs in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia’s mix of aging row-homes, historic commercial buildings, and modern flat roofs makes moisture intrusion a common—and costly—problem. Frequent freeze-thaw cycles, summer humidity, and occasional Nor’easters accelerate hidden water damage. Infrared technology lets property owners detect leaks long before they stain ceilings or cause structural decay, saving thousands in emergency repairs and helping to meet the City’s proactive maintenance expectations for commercial properties.
What roofing problems can infrared technology detect that a traditional visual inspection might miss?
A visual inspection can spot obvious defects such as punctures or missing flashing, but it cannot “see” beneath the membrane. Infrared can reveal: • Moist or water-logged insulation that compromises R-value • Hidden leaks under ballast or solar panels • Delaminated or blistering roofing layers • Ponding-water areas invisible in dry weather • Thermal bridging at seams, laps, and penetrations. Detecting these issues early prevents mold growth, deck rot, and premature system failure.
Will an infrared inspection void my roof warranty or require disruptive testing?
No. Infrared scans are completely non-destructive and leave the roof exactly as we found it. We abide by NRCA guidelines and manufacturer protocols, so your existing warranty remains untouched. Because we do not core-cut unless the client requests verification samples, the process is quick, quiet, and safe—even on occupied facilities like schools or hospitals.
How often should Philadelphia property owners schedule an infrared roof inspection?
For most commercial and multifamily roofs, we recommend a baseline infrared scan within the first year of installation, followed by annual scans thereafter. Older roofs (10+ years) or those with known drainage issues benefit from semi-annual scans—one in spring after freeze-thaw season and one in fall before winter storms. Regular thermal documentation also satisfies many insurance carriers’ and lenders’ maintenance requirements.
What does an infrared roof inspection cost and what factors affect pricing?
In Philadelphia, a typical flat-roof infrared inspection ranges from $0.08 to $0.18 per square foot, with a minimum service charge around $500. Costs vary based on roof size, accessibility, number of penetrations, whether drone imaging is required, and the level of reporting detail (basic thermal map vs. full CAD overlay). Multi-building portfolios usually qualify for volume discounts, and any needed destructive core cuts are quoted separately.