Technology

HBA uses a range of non-destructive technology to see what is going on within the concealed building envelope, and to document and explain building conditions. This can include:

  • Tablets
  • 360 degree photography
  • Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) with camera and video attachments. HBA has staff trained in preservation architecture, licensed by the FAA to fly the sUAS.
  • Working with consultants to utilize tools such as radar, sonar, infrared, resistance drilling, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDS).
  • Working with our in-house and in-field Material Science Laboratory

We are always looking for the newest and most efficient tools. The technological tools we choose make efficient use of our field time, which can be a costly part of condition assessment work.  While HBA increasingly uses such technology to help diagnose all the causes of a problem, the value of the technology can only be realized with the combined experience of the HBA team. The ultimate goal is to avoid surprises during construction that can escalate cost.