ASTM C1060: Standard Practice for Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings (Infrared Imaging)

Cx Associates performs ASTM C1060 field testing. We've performed building enclosure commissioning and C1060 testing on commercial, industrial, institutional, multifamily, and residential projects across Vermont and the Northeast. Our team includes experts with deep familiarity in building code and enclosure standards.

ASTM C1060  At a Glance

What it tests

Adequacy and uniformity of insulation installation in wall, floor, and ceiling cavities of frame buildings

Applicable to

Wood and steel frame buildings; wall, floor, and ceiling/roof assemblies with cavity insulation

New vs Existing

Both new construction quality verification and existing building diagnostics

Referenced by

Building enclosure commissioning plans, energy audit protocols, LEED verification requirements

Test Type

Qualitative non-destructive thermal imaging — identifies thermal anomalies for further investigation

What is ASTM C1060?

ASTM C1060 is a standard practice for using infrared (thermal) cameras to inspect the insulation installations in frame building assemblies. The practice uses the principle that thermal anomalies — areas of unusually high or low thermal radiation — indicate locations where insulation is missing, incorrectly installed, improperly supported, or where air infiltration is occurring through gaps in the thermal envelope.

The practice is most effective under conditions of significant temperature differential between the interior and exterior of the building — typically at least 18°F (10°C) for at least four hours before and during the survey. Under these conditions, areas of missing or deficient insulation transmit significantly more heat than areas of properly installed insulation, creating visible patterns in the thermal image.

ASTM C1060 is a qualitative practice: it identifies the presence and location of thermal anomalies, but does not quantify the extent of the insulation deficiency. Anomalies identified in the thermal survey are typically confirmed by visual inspection — removing a section of drywall or cladding to observe the insulation condition directly.

Scope and Application

Wood frame and steel stud wall assemblies with batt, blown, or spray foam insulation

Floor assemblies over unconditioned spaces

Ceiling assemblies below unconditioned attics

Flat or cathedral roof assemblies in frame buildings

Qualitative supplementation to quantitative blower door testing

New construction quality verification before drywall installation (interior surveys)

Existing building energy audits and diagnostics

Comfort investigations — locating cold spots, drafts, or thermal bridging

Pre-purchase building assessments

Why should I consider this test?

Insulation installation deficiencies are among the most common — and least visible — building enclosure problems on new construction. Missing batt sections, improperly supported insulation that has sagged away from the sheathing, and gaps at penetrations and framing members can reduce effective thermal performance significantly without any visible evidence from the interior or exterior. C1060 inspections during construction, before drywall installation, provide an opportunity to identify and correct deficiencies at minimal cost.

On existing buildings, thermographic inspection is often the most efficient first step in diagnosing chronic energy loss, comfort complaints, or condensation problems — providing a roadmap for targeted investigation rather than requiring comprehensive destructive investigation.

Related Testing Standards

These standards are commonly specified alongside or in place of ASTM C1060 depending on project scope. Cx Associates performs all of the following: