Not Either-Or—It’s Strategic
There’s a common misconception that drones are replacing manual inspections. In reality, both have a place in a well-rounded site assessment strategy. Knowing when to use each makes all the difference.
When to Use Drones
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Large or Inaccessible Roofs
Get high-res visuals and thermal data without endangering personnel or setting up scaffolding. -
Exterior Façade Mapping
Drones can quickly document multi-story buildings for damage, weathering, or design coordination. -
Preliminary Surveys
Ideal for remote site assessments or getting broad overviews for stakeholder presentations.
When Manual Still Wins
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Tight, Confined Spaces
Mechanical rooms, crawlspaces, and small interiors are still best assessed by a technician. -
Tactile Testing
If you need to physically check welds, material condition, or connection points—manual inspection is necessary. -
Close-Up Diagnostic Work
Moisture meters, infrared scopes, or invasive probes still require boots on the ground.
Best Practice: Combine Both
Use drone data to guide your manual inspections. Let aerial capture flag potential concerns, then send field crews in to verify and act.
Smart teams don’t choose one tool—they use the right one at the right time.
