Infrared Applications in the Fields of Forensic &

Construction Defect Engineering

Edward L. Fronapfel & Eric G. Amhaus

Professional Investigative Engineers

ABSTRACT

This paper outlines the use of infrared (IR) thermography in forensic and construction defect engineering

in the mountainous State of Colorado. The building envelope case studies explored in this paper include

the use of infrared thermography in the analysis and solution of problems including cold roof ventilation,

ice damming, roof ice melt systems, in-floor radiant heat systems, exterior insulation and finish

systems/stucco, stone veneer, plaza decks/balconies, flat roof and at-grade foundation clearance failure

analysis and building envelope system performance.

Keywords: forensic, construction defect, building envelope, infrared, thermography, failure analysis

THE BENEFITS OF INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY IN FORENSIC ENGINEERING &

CONSTRUCTION DEFECT INVESTIGATIONS

In forensic engineering and construction defect investigation, a visual illustration of an envelope system or

specific component failure that resulted in damage or the likelihood for damage is just as important as

knowing how and why the system or component failed to begin with. Infrared thermography has proved

itself as a successful tool in providing lucid, intuitively understandable illustrations of damage that not only

assists engineers in failure analysis, but can be readily understood by adjusters, attorneys, arbitration

panels, judges and courtroom jurors.

The application of infrared thermal imaging can be utilized in many areas of forensic engineering and

construction defect investigations. One of the primary driving factors behind these types of cases or

projects is often the inability of a structures building envelope to prevent incursion of moisture and other

outdoor elements. The building code indicates the construction of a building is to be “weather tight.” The

so-called waterproofing or water shedding characteristics of a building’s envelope is vital for ensuring

long-term structural integrity along with reducing the nuisance of leaks, interior damages and the

likelihood for an environment that will foster and support mold or other biological growth.

The intent of this paper is not to address all of the different types of building envelope components and

systems and the variety of reasons that they can fail. However, it will provide a general overview of where

the technology of infrared thermography can be utilized to provide a more accurate and cost-effective

assessment of the failure mechanisms along with the types and extent of damages that can occur and be

better identified through the use of IR thermal imaging cameras.

INFRARED APPLICATION EXAMPLES

The following list of examples provides a general overview of the types of forensic engineering studies or

construction defect investigation work in which infrared thermal imaging can be utilized as an invaluable

tool to confirm deficient installation and assess problematic conditions and subsequent damages with

structures:

Cold Roof Ventilation & Ice Damming

In central Colorado and other mountainous regions, ice damming is an epidemic problem that results in

not only damage to the interior and exterior of structures, but is a safety issue that can be life-threatening

for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. To effectively combat ice damming, multiple design and construction

factors must be considered and implemented to prevent this phenomenon from occurring.

Ice damming is the result of snow or ice that melts at upper roof sections and re-freezes when it flows to

the cold eave sections. While there are several different approaches to reducing or eliminating ice

InfraMation 2003

ITC 092 A 2003-08-15