FIFTY elevations or sections! You got your workout for the night. Yes, the specular reflectivity of single-ply EPDM roofs can be challenging. Even worse, however, is that fact that they are usually insulated with some sort of foam, which, when new, doesn't absorb water enough to show a very clear signature. The water is in the roof but cannot readily be seen. As the insulation it is easier to see what is happening but for new roofs, in particular, thermography is difficult.
For several reasons the National Roof Contractor's Association suggests these types of roofs should have a topmost layer of "recovery board," which, because it is absorbent of moisture, would help us see exactly where the water is. That critical layer is often left out to save money!
Anyway, thanks for the image. Glad you had a safe, if long, evening.
Thermally Yours,
John
ASNT NDT Level III #48166
The Snell Group
www.thesnellgroup.com
www.thermalsolutions.org
800-636-9820