Short Answer #
Thermal bridging occurs when heat escapes through structural elements, reducing insulation performance and causing cold spots inside the home.
Overview #
Even with good insulation, a home can still lose heat through weak points in the structure. These weak points are known as thermal bridges.
Key Points #
- Thermal bridging happens around wall framing, window junctions, floor and slab edges, and roof connections.
- It causes heat loss, cold internal surfaces, condensation, and reduced comfort.
- Standard construction methods do not always address thermal bridging effectively, so performance is often compromised even in new homes.
- Reducing thermal bridging improves insulation performance, increases comfort, and reduces condensation risk.
Common Questions #
Can it be completely eliminated? It can be significantly reduced with good design.
Is it important in NZ? Yes, especially in colder climates like Canterbury.
Next Step #
If you are planning a new home, our team can help you understand what level of performance is possible and where to focus your budget.