Energy efficiency is more than skin deep: Improving construction quality control in new-build housing using thermography

Objective: The objective of the research is to investigate the scope for testing the thermal performance of the building envelope during the construction process using thermography. The purpose of these tests is to enable early identification of performance issues in new residential buildings and support the management of construction quality on site. Methods: The application of thermography at different stages during the construction process has been developed through field tests on housing projects in Wales, UK. Results: The scope for four types of "in-construction" test have been identified: early stage checks on the installation of insulation; identifying air leakage through the building envelope; assessing insulation continuity and the severity of thermal bridges; and investigating the performance of building services. Conclusion: Carrying out tests on a construction site brings practical challenges not usually encountered in thermographic inspections of a completed building. However, useful results can be obtained following the testing approach introduced in the article. Practice implications: Early identification of performance issues in new buildings is advantageous so that remedial work can be carried out in a timely and appropriate way. Further research should establish guidelines for the conditions in which reliable results can be obtained using the "in-construction" thermography approach.