Checks & measurements
Non-destructive checks that turn a vague observation into a repeatable pattern.
Airflow direction check
Use a safe lightweight indicator to see which way air moves at a doorway or grille.
Appliance cycle correlation
Relate a symptom to fill, heat, drain and dry stages of an appliance.
Attic frost map
Map frost or wetting against ceiling penetrations, insulation depth and roof orientation.
Borescope visual check
Inspect an accessible cavity through a suitable existing opening.
Crack-width log
Record crack width and geometry from consistent reference points.
Dew-point comparison
Compare indoor dew point with the temperature of the affected surface.
Downspout discharge check
Confirm where roof water exits and whether it returns toward the foundation.
Drain-trap water check
Confirm that infrequently used traps contain water.
Filter and grille inspection
Inspect accessible filters and grilles for blockage, bypass and unusual deposits.
Gutter overflow observation
Observe roof drainage from a safe location during rain.
Meter baseline check
Confirm instrument function and compare against a known dry or normal reference.
Moisture-meter pattern check
Compare repeated readings across a grid rather than relying on one number.
Odor isolation check
Close or isolate likely pathways one at a time and compare odor strength.
Paper-towel leak check
Use dry absorbent material at an accessible joint to reveal small active leaks.
Rain and wind log
Compare symptom timing with rain amount, wind direction and delay.
Relative humidity log
Record humidity and temperature over multiple occupied and unoccupied periods.
Surface temperature check
Compare the suspect surface with nearby reference surfaces.
Thermal camera comparison
Use thermal patterns as clues while accounting for reflections, airflow and surface properties.
Visual edge tracking
Mark or photograph the boundary of a stain to detect change.
Water-use isolation check
Observe whether a symptom changes after a specific fixture or appliance is used.
