Recent infrared scan of a newly renovated room.

This scan is of a dining room that was recently renovated. The owner complained of drafts and being cold. After scanning the room I found several issues. Although they insulated the room, the contractor failed to properly install the insulation. This is a common issue if its not done correctly. More often then not insulation is stapled to the inside of the studs using the flaps that are provided on the facing of the vapor barrier. This is incorrect. What this does is creates a air pocket between the new drywall and the face of the vapor barrier. This results in air movement in cycles up and down within the wall. Oftentimes causing air laden with moisture to be drawn into this mini-cycle environment. The result is lower efficiency of the insulation and in some cases mold development within the wall cavity.
In the photo shown you can see the cold air being drawn down from the top plate area within the wall. The blue colors are colder as shown by the scale on the right. Red is warmer.
In addition you can see air leakage out of the ceiling trims as well. This is caused by no vapor barrier being installed over the top plate in the room. This allows air to flow freely between the top plate and the wall. Ideally no vapor barrier on the insulation itself should be used, followed by a plastic sheet that is glued around all the edges and stapled into place. This assures that no air containing moisture will enter into the wall cavity.
If you look at the 2nd photo you can see a bloom of sorts of dark purple blues and light blues to green. This is air leaking out of the top of the window trims. This air in bringing in outside temps bypassing the windows all together. Many people install new windows thinking they are loosing heat as a result. When all they need to do is caulk and properly seal the frames.
During this time of year many people suffer from static electricity. The result of dry air in the house. In order to correct this issue they install all sorts of dehumidifiers in an attempt to raise the humidity level within the home. This is simply a waste of money and energy. If you stop the air leakage out of your home by proper air sealing the house will remain properly humidified. What this is telling you is your home leaks air and energy. This moisture you are adding is simply going into the wall cavities where it cools down enough to condense within the insulation area. The result is wet insulation that grows mold and makes the house more expensive to heat and cool.