Typically, we look for any air pathways to the attic. In this case, we want to create an airseal to prevent heat loss. We do a thorough, visual inspection as  well as use the infared imaging camera and special diognostic equipment.
	Here we are looking for trouble spots, and we measure air movement and heat loss. We also conduct a combustion efficiency analysis of the heating system, combined with safety analysis of carbon monoxcide. Then we collected the data.
Once we thoroughly inspected the entire house we were able to generate a comprehensive report which we reviewed with the homeowner. Here is an example of the summary of one such report: Sumary of inspection: Thermography Report Customer:     ----- Poughkeepsie NY House was found to have major moisture issues in attic area evidenced by frost, water and mildew covering plywood sheathing on northern side of house.  Many contributing factors led to this condition including: 1.)  Humidifier in house was set on high through out the heating season and should be set at a much lower level. 2.) Heating system for the second floor was located in the attic and had major duct leakage pumping warm moist air directly into the attic. 3.)Framing openings and other penetrations to attic from the heated house are another source of warm moist air    coming from recessed soffits and lowered sheetrock ceilings on second floor.                                                    Recommendations to improve this condition are: 1.)  Reduce humidifier setting to appropriate level for outside conditions. 2.) Remove existing duct insulation and completely seal ductwork with a mastic  product. Re-insulate all ductwork including larger truck lines. 3.) Seal openings from heated space to attic found in recessed ceiling areas. Additionally energy can be saved by adding insulation to the attic area over the existing insulation. Be sure to protect and maintain existing ventilation and fill any recessed ceilings with insulation after making sure open wall cavities are sealed. Also cover pull down stairs with insulated cover. Thermography date:        12/21/05 Outdoor temperature:        30 °C Indoor temperature:        68 °C Temp diff In-Out ?t:        (Te38mp) °C Weather:                (Sunny) Pressure diff In-Out ?P:    (Pa)-3 Pa
On another project, we recommended spray foam insulation. Spray foam insulation creates an optimum air seal.  An air exchange system was included to prevent condensation, and provide ventilation.
In each case study, our reports will address the needs and requirements to make a home or building energy efficient, comfortable, and environmentally safe and healty by making the appropriate corrections or improvements.