What is thermal bridging?

Thermal bridging refers to the phenomenon where heat flows through a building component, such as walls, roofs, or floors, leading to a loss of energy. This occurs when materials with higher thermal conductivity, like metal or concrete, create a path for heat to escape or enter the building more readily than surrounding insulation. When this happens, it can significantly impact a building's energy efficiency, leading to higher heating and cooling costs as the HVAC system works harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature.

Addressing thermal bridging is crucial in building design and energy efficiency strategies; it often involves using insulation techniques and materials that minimize this heat transfer, ultimately improving comfort and reducing energy consumption.