What is thermal bridging and its impact on energy efficiency?

Thermal bridging refers to the phenomenon where heat is conducted through materials in a building that are less effective as insulators compared to surrounding materials. This often occurs when structural elements like metal beams, concrete walls, or framing penetrate the insulation layer, allowing heat to bypass the insulation and transfer more easily between the exterior and interior spaces.

The impact on energy efficiency is significant: thermal bridges can lead to increased heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer. This means that the heating and cooling systems must work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, resulting in higher energy consumption and operational costs. Identifying and mitigating thermal bridges through proper building design and insulation techniques is essential to optimize energy performance and enhance overall efficiency. By understanding and addressing thermal bridging, builders can minimize energy waste and improve the sustainability of structures.