Traditional façade and roof inspections require scaffolding, boom lifts, or rope access — all of which come with cost, time, and safety implications. Even then, the human eye may miss subtle defects unless captured with precision imaging tools. Drone technology has now evolved to a point where it’s not just a faster alternative — it’s a superior inspection method for many applications.
At Atomic Projects, our Drone Inspection & Surveying service combines aviation-grade drones with specialist camera systems capable of up to 48MP still images and 4K/6K video, along with thermal imaging for moisture detection. This enables us to carry out detailed condition surveys on façades, roofs, and elevated building elements without disruptive access works.
1. Applications & Building Elements Covered
We deploy drones for:
- Façade surveys to identify cracks, spalling, failed sealants, or coating breakdown.
- Roof inspections to detect corrosion, membrane failures, or loose fixings.
- Structural element checks for parapets, ledges, and overhangs.
- Post-storm and post-impact inspections for insurance reporting.
- Heritage building assessments where physical contact must be avoided.
2. Advanced Imaging & Analysis
We use more than just visual imagery:
- High-resolution zoom lenses to capture micro-defects from safe distances.
- Thermal cameras to identify hidden moisture ingress or insulation failures.
- 360° mapping to create complete digital twins of building exteriors.
- AI-assisted defect tagging for rapid data processing and report preparation.
3. Compliance & Risk Management
Our drone operations are fully CASA-certified, with flight plans lodged for each mission.
- We conduct thorough pre-flight safety checks.
- Maintain compliance with building and privacy laws.
- Operate in accordance with wind and weather limitations to ensure safety and image quality.
4. Deliverables & Reporting
Each inspection produces:
- Annotated image packs with defect markers.
- Video footage for client review and engineer assessment.
- Orthomosaic maps for large building surfaces.
- Optional integration into BIM or asset management platforms.
5. Advantages Over Traditional Methods
- Cost efficiency: No need for costly scaffold or EWP hire for preliminary inspection.
- Speed: Entire façades can be surveyed in hours, not days.
- Safety: No physical access to high-risk areas required.
- Detail: Zoom and thermal imaging can detect defects invisible to the naked eye from ground level.
Outcome:
Drone inspections give stakeholders rapid, detailed, and cost-effective insight into a building’s condition. Combined with our engineering partnerships, the result is clear defect mapping that forms the backbone of targeted repair scopes — ensuring budget is spent where it matters most.
If you’re ready to get started, we're ready to help.
Take the next step and let’s build something that lasts.
📞 Call Us: 0410 515 509
✉️ Email Us: hello@atomicprojects.com.au
— Ben Tran, General Manager, Atomic Projects
