Thermal bridge
A thermal bridge is a part of an assembly that conducts heat more easily than the material around it, creating a path for heat loss or gain.
A thermal bridge is a part of an assembly that conducts heat more easily than the material around it, creating a path for heat loss or gain.
Definition
A thermal bridge is a localized area in the building envelope where heat flows through more readily than through the surrounding insulated area. Metal framing, slab edges and fasteners are typical examples.
A plain example
Take an insulated wall with steel studs. The insulation sits between studs, but each stud runs from inside to outside and conducts heat across the wall. Heat follows that metal path, so the wall performs worse than the insulation value alone suggests.
Why it matters
Thermal bridging reduces the real performance of an assembly, can cause cold interior surfaces and local condensation, and should be reviewed with the energy code in mind. Designers often add continuous insulation or breaks to deal with it.
Common confusion
A thermal bridge is not the same as a thermal break. The bridge is the problem path; the break is one way to interrupt it. Also, the rated R-value of an insulation product does not describe what the whole wall delivers once bridging is counted.
On a project
Ask the designer where bridges occur at slab edges, window frames and fastener lines, and how each is treated. Thermal modeling or tested values may be used, and the energy code sets the compliance route.
Quick answers
- Why do steel studs cause thermal bridging? Steel conducts heat far better than most insulation, so each stud forms a path through the wall.
- Does insulation between studs remove the bridge? No. It reduces heat flow in the cavity but the framing still conducts. Continuous insulation is one common response.
- Where can I find the required performance? In the energy code adopted locally and the project design. Confirm with the designer and the local authority.
Related terms
Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.
Questions people ask
Why do steel studs cause thermal bridging?
Steel conducts heat far better than most insulation, so each stud forms a path through the wall.
Does insulation between studs remove the bridge?
No. It reduces heat flow in the cavity but the framing still conducts. Continuous insulation is one common response.
Where can I find the required performance?
In the energy code adopted locally and the project design. Confirm with the designer and the local authority.
Sources and further reading
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