Minor issues could quickly escalate as buildings age or face extreme weather, turning them into costly repairs. In the past, key defects in hard-to-reach areas were missed due to the use of traditional methods.
With the advent and intervention of drones in aerial inspection methods, it has become easier to inspect every aspect of the building with an eagle eye. It is a quicker, easier, more efficient, and less time-consuming way of checking and maintaining the building in top-notch condition.
Building Defects Detected In Aerial Inspections
The efficacy and accuracy of aerial inspections cannot be challenged. They help detect defects initially, allowing one to address them before they become a life hazard or cost-bearing expense.
- Structural Cracks
Minor cracks around windows, doors, and the exterior are the first signs of a building’s deteriorating state. An aerial inspection would help scan the entire building for cracks and identify minor issues before they become major structural defects.
- Drainage Issues And Water Pooling
The flat roofs of commercial buildings are notorious for accumulating water. This water pooling could lead to major problems, such as leaks or structural damage.
Aerial inspections could help detect areas where water is collecting and check for blockages in the drainage systems, preventing more serious damage from water.
- Roof Damage
Damage to the roof is often the first defect detected. Cracked tiles, clogged gutters or missing shingles are often defects that cannot be detected from ground level. An aerial inspection can help you spot these defects and easily pinpoint where the damage is before it worsens.
- Wear And Tear On The Outer Of The Building
Weather harshly affects the outer area of the building. Whether the outer structure is built with bricks, stones, or siding, it negatively impacts the weather. With the help of aerial inspections, it would be easier to detect faults at hard-to-reach areas and see where the outer starts to deteriorate.
- Chimney And Vent Problems
The last things checked during inspection are the rooftop, chimneys, and building vents. Aerial inspections make it easier to look for defects in these areas. By doing so, problems can be detected earlier, making it easier to fix them before they get out of hand.
- Pests Inspection
Surprisingly, aerial inspections are important in spotting pest problems. Many birds, rodents, and insects love to make nests in hidden places. Drones can capture these sneaky spots, helping you eliminate the infestation before it can create major problems.
- Solar Panel Check-ups
Solar panels must be kept in good shape to produce efficient energy. Aerial inspections are important to spot debris or damage that could affect their efficiency. The traditional inspection method, which requires inspectors to climb up and inspect the panels, is unnecessary. Drones with thermal imaging can detect areas that are not working efficiently and the factors affecting them.
- Damage Caused Due To Weather
Nature could cause drastic effects on the buildings, especially when the storm hits. High winds, heavy rains, snow, or ice can cause major damage to the building facade. Aerial inspections after a storm help in assessing the situation. The faster you find and fix it, the better.
- Roof Material Wear
Even the roofs with the best materials get worn out with time. Metal roofs might get rusted, and tiles can start to loose. Aerial inspection lets you identify the early signs of damage so you can plan accordingly. Regular checks of the building help you determine the defects and minimise their effects.
- Blocked Or Broken Gutter Issues
Blocked or broken gutters can drastically affect a building’s foundation. Aerial inspections can help you inspect the gutter system closely, pinpoint defects and find ways to solve them before they become major issues.
Conclusion
Nowadays, inspecting properties has become a hassle-free task. With the advent of drone technology, the process has become more precise and time-saving. Scheduling regular inspections can help you save a lot of time, money, and stress.