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Designation: C1060 − 11a C1060 − 11a (Reapproved 2015)

Standard Practice for

Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in
Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1060; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope
1.1 This practice is a guide to the proper use of infrared imaging systems for conducting qualitative thermal inspections of
building walls, ceilings, roofs, and floors, framed in wood or metal, that contain insulation in the spaces between framing members.
This procedure allows the detection of cavities where insulation is inadequate or missing and allows identification of areas with
apparently adequate insulation.
1.2 This practice offers reliable means for detecting suspected missing insulation. It also offers the possibility of detecting
partial-thickness insulation, improperly installed insulation, or insulation damaged in service. Proof of missing insulation or a
malfunctioning envelope requires independent validation. Validation techniques, such as visual inspection or in-situR-value
measurement, are beyond the scope of this practice.
1.3 This practice is limited to frame construction even though thermography is used on all building types. (ISO 6781)
1.4 Instrumentation and calibration required under a variety of environmental conditions are described. Instrumentation

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requirements and measurement procedures are considered for inspections from both inside and outside the structure. Each vantage
point offers visual access to areas hidden from the other side.

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1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
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of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Note 1 and Note 3.
2. Referenced Documents
ASTM C1060-11a(2015)
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
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C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
E1213 Practice for Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference for Thermal Imaging Systems
2.2 ISO StandardsStandards:3
ISO 6781 :1983 Thermal Insulation—Qualitative detection of Thermal Irregularities in Building Envelopes — Infrared
Envelopes—Infrared Method
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Definitions pertaining to insulation are defined in Terminology C168.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 anomalous thermal image—an observed thermal pattern of a structure that is not in accordance with the expected thermal
pattern.
3.2.2 envelope—the construction, taken as a whole or in part, that separates the indoors of a building from the outdoors.

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This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.30 on Thermal Measurement.
Current edition approved March 15, 2011Sept. 1, 2015. Published March 2011October 2015. Originally approved in 1986. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as
C1060 – 11.C1060 – 11a. DOI: 10.1520/C1060-11A.10.1520/C1060-11AR15.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
3
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1, ch. de la Voie-Creuse, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://
www.iso.ch.Standardization, ISO Secretariat, BIBC II, Cheminde Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.

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 C1060 − 11a (2015)
3.2.3 field-of-view (FOV)—the total angular dimensions, expressed in degrees or radians, within which objects can be imaged,
displayed, and recorded by a stationary imaging device.
3.2.4 framing spacing—distance between the centerlines of joists, studs, or rafters.
3.2.5 infrared imaging system—an instrument that converts the spatial variations in infrared radiance from a surface into a
two-dimensional image of that surface, in which variations in radiance are displayed as a range of colors or tones.
3.2.6 infrared thermography—the process of generating thermal images that represent temperature and emittance variations
over the surfaces of objects.
3.2.7 masonry veneer—frame construction with a non-load bearing exterior masonry surface.
3.2.8 measurement spatial resolution (IFOVmeas)—The smallest target spot size on which an infrared imager will produce a
measurement, expresses in terms of angular subtense.
3.2.9 spatial resolution—the spot size in terms of working distance.
3.2.10 thermal pattern—a representation of colors or tones that indicate surface temperature and emittance variation.
3.2.11 thermogram—a recorded image that maps the apparent temperature pattern of an object or scene into a corresponding
contrast or color pattern.
3.2.12 zone—a volume of building served by a single ventilation system. For buildings with natural ventilation only, the whole
building shall be considered a zone with all interior doors open.

4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice is a guide to the proper use of infrared imaging systems for conducting qualitative thermal inspections of
building walls, ceilings, roofs, and floors, framed in wood or metal, that contain insulation in the spaces between framing members.
Imaging system performance is defined in terms of spatial and measurement resolution as well as thermal sensitivity. Conditions
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under which information is to be collected and compiled in a report are specified. Adherence to this standard practice requires a
final report of the investigation. This practice defines the contents of the report.

5. Significance and Use (https://standards.iteh.ai)

wall, roof, floor, or ceiling, the emphasisDocument Preview
5.1 Although infrared imaging systems have the potential to determine many factors concerning the thermal performance of a
in this practice is on determining whether insulation is missing or whether an insulation
installation is malfunctioning. Anomalous thermal images from other apparent causes are not required to be recorded; however,
if recorded as supplemental information, their interpretation is capable of requiring procedures and techniques not presented in this
practice. ASTM C1060-11a(2015)
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6. Instrumentation Requirements
6.1 Environmental Factors—The environment has a significant impact on the heat flow through the envelope. As a result, the
requirements on thermal imaging instrumentation vary with the interior to exterior air temperature gradient for both interior and
exterior inspections and also vary with wind speed for exterior inspections.
6.2 Infrared Imaging System Performance—The ability of an observer to detect thermal anomalies depends on the imager’s
powers of thermal and spatial resolution. The practical test for these qualities is whether the operator is able to distinguish the
framing from the envelope cavities under the prevailing thermal conditions with the infrared imaging system at a distance that
permits recognition of thermal anomalies. For planning an equipment purchase or a site visit, the following qualities shall be
considered: The minimum resolvable temperature difference (MRTD) defines temperature resolution. Instantaneous field of view
(IFOV) is an indicator of spatial resolution. Appendix X1 explains how to calculate IFOV and how to measure MRTD.
6.2.1 Spectral Range—The infrared thermal imaging system shall operate within a spectral range between 2 and 14 µm.
6.2.2 Field of View (FOV)—The critical minimum dimensions for discriminating missing insulation in frame construction is two
framing spacings wide and one framing spacing high. Outdoors, it is typically convenient to view at least one floor-to-ceiling height
across and one-half that distance high. The FOV of the chosen imaging system should encompass these minimum dimensions from
the chosen indoor viewing distance, di, and outdoor viewing distance, do. For planning purposes, the angular value of FOV shall
be calculated for either d (m) by the following equations:
FOVvertical $ 2 tan21~h/2d ! (1)
FOVhorizontal $ 2 tan 21
~w/2d ! (2)

where:
h = vertical distance viewed, m, and
w = horizontal distance viewed, m.

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7. Knowledge Requirement
7.1 This practice requires operation of the imaging system and interpretation of the data obtained. When qualified, the same
person has the option of performing both functions. The operator of the infrared imaging system shall have thorough knowledge
of its use through training, the manufacturer’s manuals, or both. The interpreter of the thermographic data shall be knowledgeable
about heat transfer through building envelopes and about thermography, including the effects of stored heat, wind, and surface
moisture.
7.2 The instrument shall be operated in accordance with the published instructions of the manufacturer.

8. Preferred Conditions
8.1 The criterion for satisfactory thermal conditions is the ability to distinguish framing members from cavities. Appendix X2
gives some guidelines for determining whether the weather conditions are likely to be suitable.

9. Procedure
9.1 Preliminary Inspection—A preliminary thermographic inspection may be performed to determine whether a thorough
inspection, and report, is warranted.
9.2 Background Information—Prepare for the report by collecting information on the building. In order to evaluate the structure,
collect the following preliminary data where practical and necessary:
9.2.1 Note each type of building cross section, using visual inspection, construction drawings, or both, to determine what
thermal patterns to expect.
9.2.2 Additions or modifications to the structure.
9.2.3 Thermal problems reported by the building owner/occupant.
9.2.4 Note differences in surface materials or conditions that will affect emittance, for example, metallic finishes, polished
surfaces, stains, or moisture. Such differences in emittance cause thermal patterns that are independent of temperature differences.
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9.2.5 Orientation of the building with respect to the points of the compass.
9.2.6 Heat sources, such as light fixtures, mounted in or close to the exterior or interior of the envelope.

9.3.1 Set the instrument gain (https://standards.iteh.ai)

9.3 Performing On-Site Equipment Check and Settings:
or contrast to allow the observer to distinguish a framing member from the envelope area around

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it. In addition, set the imager’s thermal level or brightness so that any anomalies or areas to which they are referenced are not in
saturation (maximum brightness or white) or in suppression (minimum brightness or black) on the display.
9.3.2 Verify proper operation of the recording system, if any.
9.3.3 Make a sketch or photograph of each envelope area with references for locating framing members.
9.4 Performing the Inspection: ASTM C1060-11a(2015)
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9.4.1 A complete thermographic inspection of a building will consist of an exterior or interior inspection of the complete
envelope, or both. Both types of inspection are recommended because each offers access to areas that are difficult for the other.
9.4.2 Inspect all surfaces of interest from an angle as close to normal to the surface as possible, but at least at an angle that
permits distinguishing framing members. Make inspections from several angles, perpendicular, if possible, and at two opposite
oblique angles in order to detect the presence of reflected radiation.
9.4.3 Inspect from a position that allows a field of view that encompasses at least two framing spacings wide and one framing
spacing high for an interior inspection and a floor-to-ceiling height wide and one-half that distance high for an exterior inspection.
9.4.4 Effective corrective action requires a precise definition of the areas with apparent defects. Record each anomaly with
annotation regarding the location of all recognizable building characteristics such as windows, doors, and vents. The record may
accommodate any requirement for calculations of envelope areas with anomalies.

10. Thermographic Interpretation

10.1 If apparent defects in insulation are not confirmed, corrected, and reinspected at the time of the thermographic survey, then
thermograms or other precise identification of the locations and types of apparent defects are required. The interpretation of the
thermogram allows determination of the following information:
10.1.1 Locations of the regions where insulation is apparently missing or defective and their total area.
10.1.2 Locations of the regions where the insulation is apparently intact and their total area.
10.1.3 Location and total area of added insulation (if 10.1.1 and 10.1.2 were performed in a thermographic inspection prior to
adding insulation).
10.1.4 Estimated total area of surfaces that cannot be inspected.
10.2 Interpretation of thermographic images requires awareness of the following types of patterns:
10.2.1 Intact Insulation—As seen from the warm side of the construction: dark parallel lines, representing the framing;
uniformly lighter areas between the framing lines, representing the insulation. As seen from the cool side of the construction: the
framing lines are light. The areas containing insulation are uniformly dark.

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NOTE 1—Metal framing with no insulation may fit this description. See Note 2.
NOTE 2—Metal framing conducts heat better than both air and insulation. If insulation is present, the thermal contrast between metal framing and the
spaces between may be very strong. Independent verification may be needed for metal-framed buildings to establish typical patterns for insulated and
uninsulated areas.
10.2.2 Insulation Missing Completely—As seen from the warm side of the construction: light parallel lines, representing the
framing; darker areas between the framing lines, representing the empty space between framing members. Convection will be
visible in vertical framing, as evidenced by a gradient from dark (cooler) at the bottom of the space to light (warmer) at the top.
As seen from the cool side of the construction: the framing lines are dark, the areas between framing are light and convection is
still lighter at the top of vertical spaces.
NOTE 3—Metal framing with no insulation may not fit this description. See Note 2.
10.2.3 Insulation Partially Missing—The dominant effect is as described in 10.2.1, except that missing insulation shows as a
well-defined dark region, as seen from the warm side and as a light region as seen from the cool side.
10.2.4 Other Thermal Patterns—Irregular variation of the thermal pattern in the spaces between framing members indicate a
combination of possible causes, including varying density of insulation, convection or air leakage, moisture, or thermal bridges.
A partial list of examples follows:
10.2.4.1 Variable density insulation often allows air leakage and convection and thereby creates intruding areas of surface
temperature variation.
10.2.4.2 Areas where insulation contains significant moisture conduct heat much more readily than dry insulation or no
insulation. Within the moist region, mottled and diffused thermal pattern are commonly observed. Temperature variations within
the pattern are not extreme. Conditions also allow for moisture to evaporate, on either the interior or exterior wall or in the
interstitial space; this causes cooling of these surfaces below ambient air temperatures. Further, when the envelope is in thermal
transition, moist areas, with their higher thermal capacitance, temperature is capable of changing more slowly (in either direction)
than similar dry materials. Because of these three variables (conduction, evaporation and capacitance), thermals signatures related
to moisture are confusing and difficult to interpret.
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10.2.4.3 Framing members and the presence of fasteners will cause thermal bridges.
10.2.4.4 Air leakage, usually at joints and junctions in the building envelope, typically produces irregular shapes with uneven

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boundaries and large temperature variations. Air leakage can be detected thermographically when air of a different temperature
than the surface viewed comes from the side of the envelope opposite the observer. Air leakage also occurs on interior partitions
as well as floors and ceilings that are connected to the envelope.
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10.2.4.5 Indoor temperatures will vary from room to room. This can result in large areas showing brighter than others, as seen
during an exterior survey. Independent verification of indoor temperatures will determine whether such variations are due to
variations in indoor temperatures or to differences in the thermal qualities of the envelope.
10.2.4.6 If an object has been removed from aASTM surface,C1060-11a(2015)
thermal signatures occur where the object insulated the surface. This
effect diminishes with time after removal of the object.
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10.3 If possible, the cause of the anomalous thermal image shall be determined. This is done by calculations, ancillary
measurements, experience, or by comparing the actual thermogram with reference thermograms for structures with known
anomalies. The report should substantiate such determinations.
10.4 Environmental effects are significant on the exterior as well as the interior. Wind will tend to diminish the thermal patterns
on the exterior and modify them on the interior where air leakage is present. Both sun and shading will immediate affect the
exterior but will not show up on the interior surfaces for 2-6 2 to 6 h later. Care should always be taken to determine what the
conditions were prior to the actual inspection.

11. Report
11.1 The report on a thermographic survey shall contain, at a minimum, the following information:
11.1.1 Brief description of the essential construction features of the building. (This information shall be based on drawings or
other construction documents when available).
11.1.2 Note any unusual surface conditions, such as moisture or reflective materials, and note the means used to account for
these conditions.
11.1.3 Geographic orientation of the building with respect to the points of the compass, and a description of the surrounding
buildings, vegetation, landscape, and microclimate. This is be done with photographs of each side of the building.
11.1.4 The equipment used, including model and serial number, and any critical settings used during the inspection.
11.1.5 Date and hour of the inspection.
NOTE 4—This practice does not rely on detailed weather information. The ability to distinguish framing members is the critical criterion. Weather
records from a nearby weather station should provide sufficient data, when desired.
11.1.6 Sketches/photographs of the building showing the positions of the thermograms. If no thermograms were made, then the
following are able to be substituted: