• Corpus ID: 110091022

Infrared Imaging and Log Construction Thermal Performance

@inproceedings{Amhaus2005InfraredIA,
  title={Infrared Imaging and Log Construction Thermal Performance},
  author={Eric G. Amhaus and Edward L. Fronapfel},
  year={2005}
}

• Eric G. Amhaus, Edward L. Fronapfel
• Published 2005
• Engineering

This paper will review and discuss the benefits of infrared thermography as its thermal imaging technology applies to the investigation and inspection of log home construction. Specifically, this paper will discuss the results and findings of infrared imaging used to evaluate thermal performance properties of log structures. In addition, this paper will discuss the utilization of infrared imaging for mapping air leakage or infiltration when used in conjunction with blower door / fan pressurization testing. Under the International Residential Code (IRC), the International Energy Conservation Code and American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards, air tightness is a specified requirement in the design and construction of homes. In order to post evaluate a structure to determine compliance with such standards, blower door testing (ASTM E779-99: Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage by Fan Pressurization) may be performed to provide physical data to determine the quality or tightness of a building envelope, air leakage pathways and natural ventilation rates. However blower door testing alone does not provide a visual representation of exactly where these leakage points are individually occurring. By combining the use of infrared thermography with blower door testing, a visual illustration of the air leakage in a structure during the de-pressurization testing can be physically obtained. These visual illustrations can be extremely useful to designers, builders and owners to enhance either log home or standard building construction practices as they relate to air tightness, ventilation, energy conservation, and weatherproofing.