Using a Drone for Roof Inspection
What is a
drone?
A UAV or drone is an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle that is piloted remotely. You’ve
likely heard of drones being used for military purposes, but they are finding
many other uses. As a licensed Florida home inspector and Licensed UAS(Unmanned
Aircraft Systems) pilot, Commendable Inspection is using drones for Roof and
other inaccessible area inspections. We can get to places that were too high,
inaccessible or just too expensive to observe with lifts, scaffolds or piloted
helicopters.
There are many buildings and structures that are difficult to gain
access to. There may also be obstructions or building features that make access
difficult or dangerous. Using a drone can help minimize costs associated with
accessing these areas. They can also keep individuals safely away from sources
of danger during the inspection process.
An example of a difficult to access area would be a church
steeple. Typically, older structures have a much steeper roof structure
which makes accessing these types of building features difficult. Using a
drone to complete steeple inspection allows quick access to these areas without
setting up scaffolding. This results in a faster assessment with a reduced
cost.
There are many times where buildings are connected to the power grid at
an external exposed point on the building. These areas can present
waterproofing issues and require closer inspection. By using drones, the
operator can remain at a safe distance away from the power supply but still be
able to assess the area for waterproofing problems that require attention.
·
Cost Effective Aerial Imagery
For many reasons building owners and managers like to have aerial images
of their buildings. They may use these images for documenting the condition of
the existing building for insurance coverage. The images may be used for
planning and development of the property. Aerial images allow building owners
and managers to be able to gain a better oversight of their property.
A primary factor in the long-term performance of roofing systems is the
drainage of the roof system. Roof systems that provide better drainage and
limit the ponding water on the roof system perform better long-term. Aerial
imagery provides a better opportunity to assess the overall drainage patterns
of the building.
Aerial imagery services can be costly. Building owners and property
managers are forced to wait for the aerial imagery company’s schedule which may
take several months before they are in the area of the building.
In addition, the aerial image company is not capable of interpreting the
images to help determine the current drainage patterns for the building or
other features of the roof system. Using a professional roofing contractor who
deploys drone technology can be a quicker and more cost effective solution for
building owners and property managers.
·
Aerial Infrared
New UAVs or drones are now able to carry an infrared camera as a
payload. There are benefits to using a drone affixed with an infrared camera.
Drones can be a more cost effective solution as the technology can be deployed
locally at the site instead of flying from a remote airport. The drone can be
flown for a fraction of the cost of a manned plane. In addition, the
drone can hover over the target and capture more images when compared to a
flyover taking place.
Downside
to Drones?
As with any other technology, drones are not the answer in all
situations. There is no substitute for a professional roofing contractor being
able to step on your roof system and complete an hands-on assessment of your
building.
Drones are like any other tool that a professional inspector uses.
They are an extension of the individual. UAVs enhance the reach of an
inspector and provide quality services to their clients.
Do you
have a building or structure that can benefit from implementing drone
technology? Or needs any other type of inspection services?
Contact Terry at CommendableHome.com today!
