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IML Resistograph
I am the only Home Inspector in North America to own this high-precision instrument capable of providing physical documentation of hidden wood decay.
Resistance Measurement
Resistance measurement is the most accurate and dependable method available anywhere for locating and documenting hidden wood decay. It provides documental evidence of the thickness and profile of the shell of sound wood.
The resistograph inserts a long, thin, spinning drill bit into the wood being tested. As the needle progresses, the levels of resistance in torque are recorded on waterproof graph paper. The result is a visual record of the profile of sound and unsound wood encountered along the drill bit's path.
Using a methodical approach, I'm able to develop a three-dimensional profile of the interior decay of a beam, log or post.
At over $4000 the Resistograph is relatively expensive, but resistance testing is the most reliable technique available for locating and documenting hidden wood decay. It's an important instrument in documenting areas of decay significant enough be a structural problem and to provide an idea of the extent of the problem.
The Resistograph is sensitive enough to record individual tree rings. The path of the needle in testing this 16-inch log lies just below the edge of the paper. Dips in the line show softer wood and decay. Because the results are in actual size you can see clearly where decayed wood starts and ends.
Resistograph measurement is low-invasive. Holes are easy to plug and cause no structural or cosmetic damage.
The resistograph in action
