Thermal Image Roof Inspection

Putnam General Hospital in Eatonton, GA, called Roofsouth to inspect a rooftop that the owners suspected had leaks or storm damage. Our crew responded to evaluate a built-up roof (BUR), sometimes called a tar-and-gravel roof.

We used a thermal heat detection system to scan the roof surface. This method shows temperature differences across the roof and helps locate areas where water may have been absorbed into the insulated board beneath the top roofing materials. Because wet insulation warms differently from dry areas, the thermal images reveal those wet spots visually.

The thermal system produces a color map that indicates moisture levels. Areas with average temperature appear in purple to light red, and those colors usually mean no water is present under the TPO. When water intrusion occurs, the color shifts from bright red up into high yellow. The higher and more extensive the yellow, the greater the amount of retained water in the roofing assembly.

During this inspection we carefully scanned the entire TPO surface, focusing on transitions, seams, penetrations, and any spots impacted by recent weather. Each thermal image was captured and compared to surrounding areas so we could identify irregular hot spots that suggest water retention. We did not rely on a single image, we checked multiple passes to confirm suspicious areas before drawing conclusions.

Because the detection method depends on temperature differences, we explained to the building owner how colors relate to moisture and why yellow areas require further attention. Thermal imaging is noninvasive, so we were able to evaluate the roof without cutting or removing materials. That helps preserve the roof while still providing a clear view of potential problem zones.

If thermal images show high yellow areas, those spots often need repair or further investigation to prevent ongoing damage. Water retained in the insulated board can raise temperatures in those areas, and over time, it can degrade roof performance if left unaddressed.

Please give Roofsouth a call for a free roof inspection of your TPO or PVC roof as well as your built-up roof (BUR), sometimes called a tar-and-gravel roof.

Location: Eatonton, GA