Define “thermal bridging”.

Thermal bridging refers specifically to the phenomenon where a highly conductive material allows heat to flow through an insulated area, thereby reducing the overall effectiveness of the insulation. This typically occurs in building assemblies where materials with high thermal conductivity, such as metals or concrete, interrupt the expected performance of insulating materials.

For instance, if a metal beam runs through a wall that is insulated, the metal can conduct heat away from the warm interior to the outside, effectively creating a path of least resistance that bypasses the insulating material. This can lead to increased heat loss in winter or excessive heat gain in summer, diminishing the energy efficiency of a building.

Understanding this concept is crucial for building analysts and energy auditors, as identifying and mitigating thermal bridging can significantly enhance the thermal performance of a structured envelope and contribute to overall energy savings.