Technologies Shaping the Building Inspections Industry Today

commercial building inspector NJ

Numerous technological breakthroughs have occurred over the past several years and are changing how industries work. The world is now experiencing a digital revolution, transforming production, management, and governance systems across sectors.

Powered by the Internet of Things (IoT), mechanical and digital elements are being combined into a single device that can be remotely managed or operated independently. Various businesses are adapting to ever-growing digital capabilities. The building inspection industry is no exception.

Modern Inspection Tools

Advancing technology has made building inspections simpler, quicker, and more accurate. Any commercial building inspector NJ must now meet the non-negotiable requirement of staying current with technology developments. Clients, understanding the possibilities, are also demanding more sophisticated equipment to get the highest value from the services they buy.

Technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning are fundamentally altering how building inspection engineers NJ do their work. Here are some of the new technologies shaping the building inspection industry today.

Infrared Imaging

Infrared or thermal imaging is a non-invasive technology that allows a commercial building engineer NJ to see aspects of the property which are invisible to the naked eye. Infrared cameras measure temperature variations as heat (thermal radiation) moves through, from, or toward a component. This technology is capable of delivering an Augmented Reality (AR) experience.

Mapping temperature levels and variances of a component helps identify hot spots where equipment is weak or may fail. It can discover various issues, including water intrusion, hidden moisture, mold development, plumbing leaks, electrical hot spots, a lack of insulation, and home energy loss.

Infrared technology does not require direct contact with the component being inspected, giving it several advantages over conventional visual inspection tools. The tool eliminates test cuts, penetrations, or building operation disruption.

With the wide use of infrared cameras, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) developed standards and guidelines to govern the use of infrared thermography. The regulations help infrared camera users gather and interpret data more accurately. Inspectors need to be certified by the Infraspection Institute before using these cameras and evaluating infrared photographs.

LED Inspection Scopes

Building inspectors can now view narrow spaces or areas completely out of reach with LED inspection scopes. This device has a camera attached to a flexible shaft, with LED lights to illuminate the work area.

These scopes allow the inspection of parts that are small, difficult to reach, or obscured from view. They are often used to visually check the condition of an electrical installation.

LED inspection scopes enable inspectors to view and document areas that previously could not be safely evaluated. The LED light makes it possible to view regardless of the prevailing lighting conditions. Newer models come with a WiFi capability that enables the transfer of pictures of the areas inspected from the camera to a smartphone or tablet.

Drones

Drones provide a completely new way of conducting a commercial building inspection NJ. Drone inspections save time and money and protect inspectors from risks.

Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and video equipment. These enable the capture of high-quality photographs and video of rooftops and other difficult-to-reach sections of the property. Drones can provide an excellent up-close view of various roof issues, such as the following:

  • leaks
  • punctures
  • blow-offs
  • pools of standing water
  • shrinkage
  • hail or wind damage
  • algae and mold
  • general wear and tear

A drone can quickly scan the property to capture an accurate image of all the areas and assets the inspector needs to assess. As a result, inspectors finish their inspections more quickly, and clients can promptly deal with possible problems before they develop into major structural issues.

Moreover, drones enable safe monitoring, inspecting, and material-moving procedures. Personnel no longer have to risk their lives going up skyscrapers to carry out routine inspections. Instead, a skilled pilot can operate the drone from a distance while gathering all the necessary data safely.

Flying a drone for home and business roof inspection is prohibited without proper insurance and a valid FAA Part 107 Un-Maned Aircraft License for commercial drone operation. Possessing this certification demonstrates the inspector’s understanding of the operating requirements, regulations, and safety procedures of flying drones.

3D imaging

Many residential and commercial inspectors rely solely on a small, handheld camera to take pictures of property deficiencies. They then include those photographs in the 30 to 50-page paper report so the client can see the problem.

But with the developments in technology, inspectors can now readily include these photos in the body of an interactive report. That is thanks to modern high-resolution digital photography and video capabilities.

Innovation allows them to take their inspection further with cutting-edge 360-degree and three-dimensional (3-D) photos and video. These modern capabilities allow inspectors to give a virtual tour of each property area under examination.

3-D scans can provide a current and accurate record of important measurements, as-built drawings, and the highest level of detail possible. In contrast to reviewing 2-D floor plans, 3-D images enable a timely and more in-depth property analysis.

Using virtual reality tools, inspectors can take rapid measurements, add notes, and document findings during the construction and maintenance phases. This is especially helpful if the site has great safety risks.

Lockatong Engineering – An Inspection Firm Dedicated to Quality and Innovation

Technological advancements are reshaping the engineering and inspection industry. Modern tools improve the safety and quality of inspections, resulting in a higher level of analysis and recommendation. Technologies like infrared cameras, LED inspection scopes, drones, and 3-D imaging expand the possibilities and scope of what engineers can do. They also reduce the likelihood of errors and decrease the chances of accidents during inspections.

When considering a firm for commercial, residential, industrial, or environmental inspections, choose one that invests in modern technology. Engineering firms that integrate modern applications show commitment to providing quality work and improving client outcomes.

Professional Engineers in New Jersey licenses depend on continuing education to be maintained. Those clients who need inspections are best served by Professional Engineers who are current in inspection technology. Better still, selecting an engineer who also has credentials such as a membership in The National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers shows a commitment to expertise in the most current technology.

Schedule a consultation or inspection with Lockatong Engineering today to learn how our modern procedures and professional New Jersey engineers can help with your inspection needs.