Specialist Investigation and Equipment

Each test is carefully selected to address a defined technical question, supporting our professional judgement with accurate diagnostics data.

Primate Property Timber Decay & Moisture Investigation 2023 DSC 6675 resize

Investigation equipment supports, but does not replace, professional judgement. Each test is selected to address a defined technical question, and the findings are interpreted in the context of the building’s construction, materials, condition and internal environment.

Fibre-Optic Inspection

Small-diameter cameras allow concealed areas to be viewed through limited access openings. They are useful behind dry lining, within timber construction and in floor, ceiling or roof voids where extensive opening-up would be disruptive or damaging.

Resistometer Testing

A fine drilling needle records resistance as it passes through timber. Changes in resistance can indicate cavities or deterioration and help assess whether decay is confined to the surface or extends further into the member.

Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging records surface temperature patterns that may assist in investigating heat loss, air leakage, dampness, condensation and possible routes of water ingress. The images require careful interpretation and are considered with moisture readings, weather conditions, occupancy and the construction of the building. A temperature difference on its own does not establish the cause of a defect.

Moisture Testing and Environmental Monitoring

We use appropriate moisture measurement and monitoring equipment to assess building materials and internal environmental conditions. Longer-term monitoring of temperature and relative humidity can help identify patterns that are not apparent during a single inspection.

Screed and Concrete Testing

Testing may include in-situ screed assessment, surface hardness testing, pull-off testing, moisture testing and laboratory analysis of samples. The selected method depends on whether the question relates to soundness, strength, adhesion, moisture condition or material composition.

Crack and Movement Monitoring

Where movement is suspected, monitoring can establish whether cracking is stable, seasonal or progressive. The monitoring period and method are selected to suit the building and the nature of the observed defect.

Laboratory Analysis

Where site inspection cannot provide a reliable answer, samples may be examined to identify material composition, moisture behaviour, salts, biological growth, timber species or other characteristics relevant to the defect.