In the realm of construction and building design, mitigating thermal bridging has become a focal point for enhancing energy efficiency and reducing heat loss. Here, we highlight two of the most innovative solutions for tackling thermal bridging, each presenting a unique approach that engineers and architects can integrate into their projects.

Basics of Thermal Bridging

Thermal bridging occurs when materials that are more conductive than the surrounding materials create a path of least resistance for heat flow, leading to significant energy losses. Addressing this issue not only improves a building’s energy performance but also contributes to a more sustainable construction practice.

2 Innovations to Fight Thermal Bridging

Strategies to combat thermal bridging have been studied for decades. Here are more recent innovations being developed for two of the most common building materials – concrete and lightweight steel.

External Insulation for Concrete Structures in Hot Climates

In hot climates, the challenge of ensuring buildings remain energy-efficient is heightened by thermal bridging, especially through structural concrete elements. This phenomenon, where heat bypasses insulation through conductive materials, leads to increased energy usage. A pivotal study by Alayed, O’hegarty, & Kinnane (2022) reveals that applying external insulation to these concrete components can dramatically improve a building’s thermal performance.

The process involves the strategic placement of insulative materials on the exterior surfaces of concrete structures. This method not only shields the building from external thermal influences but also creates a continuous insulation barrier around the structural components. By doing so, the direct path for heat transfer through the concrete is effectively blocked, significantly mitigating the effects of thermal bridging.

The study demonstrates that external insulation can halve heat loss and reduce the impact of thermal bridging by up to 73%, significantly boosting energy efficiency. This strategy not only protects the building from external heat but also establishes a continuous insulation barrier, effectively eliminating paths for heat transfer through concrete.

Mitigation Techniques for Lightweight Steel Frame Systems

In the construction industry, addressing thermal bridging in lightweight steel frame systems is crucial for improving energy efficiency. Thermal bridging occurs when heat bypasses insulation through more conductive materials, like steel frames, leading to energy losses. Research by Kempton et al. (2021) highlights two effective mitigation techniques: external frame insulation and high resistance claddings – along with the impact of combining the two.

External Frame Insulation

Applying insulation on the exterior of steel frames creates a continuous barrier, significantly reducing heat flow through the steel components and decreasing temperature variation across wall surfaces by up to 75%. This method enhances the building’s thermal consistency, contributing to substantial energy savings.

High Resistance Claddings

Complementing external insulation, high resistance claddings add a layer of thermal resistance. Made from materials with low thermal conductivity, these claddings further prevent heat transfer, bolstering the wall assembly’s overall insulation effectiveness.

Combining The Two Techniques

The synergy between external frame insulation and high resistance claddings offers a robust solution to thermal bridging, optimizing the thermal envelope for better energy performance and comfort. This approach aligns with the shift towards sustainable construction practices, emphasizing the importance of innovative insulation and cladding systems in achieving higher energy efficiency standards.