Thermal Breaking in Cladding: The Key to Energy-Efficient Buildings

The Need for Energy-Efficient Building Solutions

The European Commission for Energy has reported that buildings account for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions across Europe. This makes it increasingly vital for architects to seek energy-efficient solutions when designing new buildings. A critical area often overlooked is the insulation of temperatures within cladded façades. Jonathan Shaw, Managing Director of Armatherm™, a specialist in thermal break solutions, explains the importance of thermal breaking within cladding and modern construction. He also highlights how architects can achieve energy savings by investing in a thermal bridging solution.

The Role of Cladding in Building Design

Cladding plays an essential role in protecting commercial buildings from external elements while providing structural support. However, when the steel cladding framework bridges the insulation envelope, it can conduct heat out of the building, increasing energy loss. By incorporating a non-metallic thermal break to support cladding structures, heat transfer can be significantly reduced. This solution also prevents condensation and stabilises temperature fluctuations when extending into the building envelope.

The Impact of Condensation on Building Health

Condensation is a common issue in buildings without an effective thermal break. A lack of thermal bridging causes cold temperatures to be transferred indoors, leading to cooler spots on interior walls. These areas are prone to condensation, which can result in dampness, mould, and potential health problems like asthma. In the 1980s, many buildings in the UK were constructed with external fixtures that lacked proper insulation. This allowed cold temperatures to penetrate the interior, leading to costly repairs and, in some cases, the demolition of entire buildings. If a thermal break had been specified, these issues could have been avoided.

High rise residential building of flats with cladding being replaced with fire resistant materials UK

Modern Solutions for Thermal Bridging

Thankfully, modern solutions no longer require demolishing buildings to resolve thermal bridging. Armatherm™’s products can reduce energy transfer by over 50%, helping to prevent condensation and energy loss.

Thermal Breaks Beyond Cladding

Thermal breaks aren’t limited to cladding projects; they are also used in structures that extend into the building envelope. Armatherm™’s product, Armatherm™ Grade, offers excellent thermal isolation properties and high load-carrying capacity. A recent project for Aldi involved insulating a 1000 sqm cold store room at their distribution centre. Armatherm™ Grade 500 was installed directly under steel column bases, bridging the floor slab insulation. The product’s inert, ultra-high-density closed-cell polymer ensured both thermal performance and structural integrity. Since installation, Aldi has expanded the use of Armatherm™ solutions to additional cold store distribution centres across the UK.

High-Performance Thermal Break Solutions

In the past, applications requiring both high thermal insulation and structural load-bearing capacity often involved compromises between the two. However, Armatherm™’s thermal break solutions address both needs without any trade-offs. A traditional material for base column isolation is Iroko timber, which can handle high loads and provides good insulation when dry. However, over time, timber absorbs moisture, which reduces its insulating properties and can cause rotting. In contrast, Armatherm™’s solutions do not absorb water, providing consistent performance for the building’s lifespan, which helps architects specify them with confidence for foundation structures.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings with Thermal Breaks

Buildings without effective thermal breaks suffer from energy inefficiency. Heat loss through poorly insulated structures undermines the energy performance of the entire building. This not only affects the building’s energy efficiency but also makes it costly to maintain. Using thermal breaks can reduce energy loss by up to 80% in commercial buildings, providing substantial savings on operating costs.

The Importance of Staying Informed About New Technologies

As architects continue collaborating with developers to create sustainable, energy-efficient buildings, understanding the latest market technologies is essential. A simple yet powerful solution, such as a thermal break, can lead to significant energy cost savings. By incorporating thermal solutions into major construction projects, architects can ensure long-term financial benefits and energy efficiency.