Not saying gadgets solve everything, but they’ve saved me from more headaches than they’ve caused.
I’m right there with you—after a couple winters patching ceiling stains, I finally caved and grabbed one of those infrared thermometers too. Didn’t realize how much heat was leaking around my old chimney flashing until I saw the temp drop on the readout. Still, I have to admit, sometimes I wonder if I’m just chasing ghosts when the readings bounce all over. But for the price, it’s been worth it. I’d rather spend $20 on a gadget than $200 on drywall repair...
INFRARED THERMOMETERS: USEFUL OR JUST ANOTHER TOOL IN THE BOX?
That’s a familiar story—those stains always seem to show up in the same spots, don’t they? I’ve used infrared thermometers for years now, mostly on older properties with questionable insulation and a lot of “character.” They’re not perfect, but I’d rather have some data than just guess where the heat’s escaping. The readings can be all over the place if you’re not careful about drafts or sunlight, but I figure even a rough idea is better than nothing.
I get what you mean about chasing ghosts. Sometimes I’ll get a cold spot reading and spend half an hour poking around, only to realize it was just a weird air current from an open vent or something minor. Still, it’s caught enough real issues—like missing insulation behind knee walls—that I keep it handy. For $20-30, it’s paid for itself more than once.
Have you tried using it after sunset? I’ve found that waiting until the sun’s down gives more consistent readings, especially on exterior walls and rooflines. During the day, solar gain can throw things off big time. Also, if you’re seeing wild swings in temp around your chimney flashing, that might be worth a closer look—sometimes old mortar or caulking lets in more air than you’d think.
I’m curious if you’ve paired the thermometer with any other tools? I started using smoke pencils last year to track down drafts after getting odd readings. It’s low-tech but surprisingly effective for finding those sneaky leaks around attic hatches and recessed lights.
Honestly, gadgets aren’t magic bullets (and sometimes they just add another layer of confusion), but like you said—if they save even one drywall repair or emergency call during a snowstorm, that’s money well spent in my book.
I picked up an infrared thermometer after moving in last winter, mostly because I kept finding frost on the inside corners of my attic. I agree, it’s not foolproof—sometimes the temp jumps around and I’m not always sure what’s draft and what’s just a cold spot. Still, it helped me spot a gap behind some insulation I never would’ve noticed otherwise.
I haven’t tried a smoke pencil yet but that sounds smart. Has anyone here used those window insulation kits along with sealing drafts? I’m debating if it’s worth the hassle or if caulking and weatherstripping is usually enough.
I totally get what you mean about the thermometer—sometimes I feel like I’m chasing ghosts with mine, but it’s still caught a few sneaky cold spots I’d have missed. As for those window kits, I tried them last year on a couple of drafty windows. Honestly, they made a noticeable difference, but the plastic can be a pain to get smooth. If your windows are older or super leaky, it might be worth the hassle for winter. Otherwise, good caulking and weatherstripping usually does the trick for me... unless it’s one of those brutal cold snaps.
- We just moved in last fall and honestly, I’m still figuring out what’s “normal” for our roof.
- Used a roof rake a couple times after heavy snow—felt weird at first but seemed to help with those icy edges.
- Haven’t tried the window kits yet, but weatherstripping made a huge difference for us too.
- Anyone ever mess with heat cables? Saw them on a neighbor’s place and kinda curious if they’re worth it or just another thing to break...
