Most of the time, building owners are unaware of water intrusion into the roof assembly until leaks are visually apparent inside the building.  The presence of a vapor barrier or retarder in the roof system can cause water to be trapped above the deck, causing damage to the insulation system.  The longer the water is present, the worse the damage and the greater the damage area.  Not only does insulation spread water through sponging, but as the temperature changes, water can evaporate only to condense in another area causing damage sections of the roof not affected by the initial leak.  Water saturation permanently degrades the R value and strength of insulation materials resulting in expensive rises in energy costs.  Over time, water can cause damage and corrosion of decking materials which can result in system failure or at the least, extremely expensive and inconvenient repairs.  Sometimes what you can’t see can cost you.  The above photos show water saturation within the insulation system of a built up gravel roof system.  GBI Infrared scans are performed by certified Infrared Thermographers.  Our Thermographers use qualitative analysis to determine moisture presence and level of saturation within a roof system.  Infrared investigation findings can be confirmed with both invasive and/or non-destructive moisture meters and probes.  Contact us to find out more. .