Is a thermal imaging camera reliable for evaluating heat through finished or sub flooring?

A thermal imaging camera is often not reliable for evaluating heat through finished or sub flooring because the materials and finishes can significantly affect the camera's ability to detect heat. Finished floors, like tile, laminate, or hardwood, can insulate heat and influence the readings obtained from a thermal camera. Additionally, sub flooring materials like concrete can also impede heat transfer, leading to inaccurate temperature measurements.

The effectiveness of thermal imaging relies on the ability to detect differences in surface temperature. In cases where the heat source is beneath multiple layers of material, such as carpets, tiles, or wood, the thermal camera may not register the heat accurately. Instead, the heat may be absorbed or reflected by the outer materials, making it difficult to assess conditions directly beneath.

In practical applications, while a thermal imaging camera is a valuable tool for detecting heat sources, its limitations must be considered, especially in scenarios involving multiple layers of flooring. This is why it is important to corroborate thermal imaging findings with other methods when assessing heat in these conditions.