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Thermal Bridge
STRUCTURE & PHYSICSintermediate
Definition
A location in a building's fabric where heat flows more readily than through the surrounding insulated area — typically at structural connections, window frames, or where insulation is interrupted. Thermal bridges reduce energy performance, can cause condensation and mould, and must be carefully detailed to minimise their impact.
Example
A concrete balcony slab that penetrates the insulation layer of an apartment building creates a classic thermal bridge — cold is conducted into the building at every floor, causing condensation and dramatically increasing heat loss.