Survey Tools
Finding Cold Spots
Thermal Imaging Camera
We use FLIR thermal imaging cameras to find hot spots, cold spots and wet spots within a building. We like FLIR due to the MSX technology which overlays the thermal image onto a regular camera image provided fine detail of the actual scene, like in the image shown here. This makes it really easy to pick out areas of concern. These thermal imaging cameras are designed for building inspections and used by us primarily to pick out colder spots which may indicate a leak, a cold bridge or an area prone to mould. This technology is a really great tool that proves very useful in the right hands. Our long term experience diagnosing damp problems allows for intelligent interpretation of the image and further investigation as required.
Checking Fan Speeds
Testo Anenometer
When dealing mould it is crucial to know how well the existing ventilation system is working. This clever bit of kit acts like a wind vane and measures the speed of any extract fans installed.
This means we can advise you if the extracr fans are compliant with building regs or not. A fan that doesn’t actually work well enough to clear the steam from a shower is as useful as a chocolate teapot!
Should the fans be found to be inadequate we can install replacement building regs compliant units.
Ssssnake Camera
Snake Camera
Sometimes it is very useful to be able to look within a cavity wall or behind some plasterboard. For these purposes we use a borescope or a snake camera. This enables to quickly determine if a cavity is blocked, if mould is visible in the cavity, if debris within a cavity is causing issues or even if interstitial condensation is present within a wall.
Looking within a wall is particularly useful when the mould is being caused by a hidden source of moisture. Sometimes leaking pipes hidden behind walls or other sources of water ingress can be found.
Checking for Damp
Protimeter Moisture Meter
These familiar two pronged protimeters are useful on a survey to give an indication of areas which need further investigation. The Protimeter gives an accurate moisture content when used in timber which is very helpful to determine which timbers are at risk of fungal decay or insect attack.
The protimeter is not calibrated for masonry and does not give an absolute reading. It is also hopelessly thrown off the scent by any salts present in the wall – a big problem with older buildings which often accumulated salts from over the years.
Having said all of that the protimeter is great at finding dry areas of walls and this fact alone makes it very useful for damp and mould surveys.
Air O Cell
Mould Testing
We use a range of mould testing techniques to identify hidden mould and the type or quantity of mould spores in a property.
These include a range of tests including air and surface sampling using spore traps. We also offer cutting edge DNA swab tests which give a really accurate picture of the exact mould species present such as stachybotrys or aspergillus.
When mould removal works are carried out we take a before and after mould test to demonstrate that the mould is removed.
All tests are analysed using AI by an independent laboratory.