Illustration Source: Building Science Corp

Thermal bridging: A component, assembly, or area of the building envelope that has noticeably higher thermal conductivity than the surrounding area.

Examples include: Metal window frames, balcony slabs, shear walls and steel studs

Depending on the size of the thermal bridge (or bridges) and its thermal characteristics, a reduction in the overall thermal insulation value of the envelope can result.

Thermal bridges can cause higher heat loss, increased space heating consumption, comfort problems and condensation-related indoor moisture problems.

How to reduce thermal bridging:

• Thermal bridging can be reduced by a continuous thermal barrier
• At the wall/ceiling, a high heel roof detail enables continuous insulation over the plate
• In an existing house, at the wall/ceiling transition, add more ceiling insulation and install attic baffles over wall top plates