Analysis of structural and building defects

Thermography (= infrared imaging) visualises the results of missing or unprofessionally installed thermal insulation at unit openings (i.e. window reveals) and within the perimeter area. Particularly for low energy housing, we also provide information on building physics such as air tightness through Blower Door testing. Our expert surveys can be used as a legal basis for upgrade demands to utilise state-of-the-art technology in rectifying missing Isokorbs (thermal breaks between external reinforced concrete components and the building), poor U values for glazing or ineffective wall drainage. Calculation models for building physics inform on when which measures would ammortise – also in connection with THEWOSAN (Thermal Rehabilitation for Residential Buildings in the UN database).

Building physics include heat (heat conduction, heat radiation, thermal insulation), humidity (moisture transmission, condensation, mould formation, acoustics (sound transmission, sound insulation), fire protection and light.

We implement our knowledge and experience of building physics in "air tight building" and thermal insulation in the analysis and restoration of structural damages as well as in the construction of low energy housing and Passivhouses to provide eco-friendly, energy-efficient living areas as a basis of healthy living. Benefit from our expertise and to receive a free, non-binding energy consultation or initial visit contact us at office@ecowork.at or +43 1 606 45 95.

Building Physical Methods to Detect Structural Damages and Defects

Blower-Door-Test (Airtight Construction, Measurement of Air Exchange Rate)

  • Healthy living requires adequate airing of the living areas, whereby critical limits with regard to air tightness need to be taken into consideration. An air exchange rate which is too high (i.e. not air tight) leads to draughts and cold feet, energy loss and uncontrolled moisture transmission (formation of condensation, possibly resulting in mould).
  • The Blower-Door-Test (measurement of differences in pressure) simulates strong winds: the difference in pressure within a living area is artificially created by sealing of openings (i.e. windows) with foil and the necessary airflow to uphold a constant pressure difference (50 Pascal) is measured.
  • From these parameters (= air exchange rate) and the specified critical limit leakages can be detected and subsequently energy consumption can be optimised.

Thermography (= infra red imaging, thermal photography)

  • Thermal photographic images clearly indicate those areas in the outer building shell where increased heat flow occurs (energy loss, differences in temperature), manifesting itself externally in a so-called thermal bridge.
  • Thermography is carried out during the cold season, under as stable conditions as possible (at night to avoid warming up of the structural surfaces through sun irradiation) – in exceptional circumstances these can also be carried out in the summer using a mist blower.
  • Infra red images show structural weak points and building defects, i.e. unprofessionally carried out vapour barriers within plumbing fixtures, missing window and door sealants, etc., which can then subsequently be corrected.
  • Interior thermography is a useful supplement to exterior infrared imaging particularly in conjunction with the Blower Door Test.

Weak Spots in Building Physics - Thermographic examples of typical structural defects

  • Defects in the soffit and lintel area of windows and doors are often weak spots within the building shell, (retro-fixed) blinds often increase the occurrence of hidden condensation formation.
    Window Installation from thermal-technical view (pdf: 192kb)
  • Corners & Throats belong to the unavoidable geometric thermal bridges. Professionally executed full insulation increases the temperature levels, whereby relative temperature differences remain.
  • Connections and overhanging building components are typical thermal bridges are remnants of an era where so-called Isokorbs were not yet state-of-the-art technology.
  • Attic crossover joints need to be completely enveloped with insulating materials; ineffective partial solutions are clearly visible through thermography.
  • Subsequent thermal insulation (in particular blown in insulation materials such as sheep’s wool and cellulose) for loft conversions, incorrect spacing between insulation boards or orphan air flows behind façade insulation boards not produced to standard result in clearly visible colour structures.
  • Mortar joints become clearly visible with rising damp and insufficient perimeter insulation.