Thermal Bridge Modelling

Thermal bridges are thermally weak points in a building’s envelope which allow heat to pass out of the building very quickly. Thermal bridges can account for up to 30% off heat loss in buildings, even where they are perceived to be well insulated. Avoiding bridging is therefore a clear priority.

Thermal bridge calculations are now required on all new build homes to avoid lower default values for thermal performance being applied in your SAP (energy) calculation. * These calculations use models of the proposed building junctions, to examine their heat loss characteristics and to demonstrate the effectiveness of any insulating remedy.

Where we can, we will always seek to avoid thermal bridging through careful consideration of building methods. This is achieved through our highly experienced approach to detailed design and mitigates the need for expensive, often contrived, remedies later down the line.

For Retrofitting of existing buildings, thermal bridges cannot always be avoided. This is where a more holistic approach is required, which considers the interaction of improved insulation and ventilation, including techniques which allow the fabric to ‘breathe’ out excess moisture.

It is important that you obtain the benefits of good thermal design. First off, you will have lower energy consumption and a healthier internal environment. Secondly, it is also important that your building’s energy performance is recognised. Thermal bridge calculations can demonstrate the quality of the detailed design and will improve your scoring under the SAP (energy) calculation methodology, required by national building regulations. Without proof of these details, lower default values are applied which can make the difference between pass and fail for regulatory compliance.