How do insulation and thermal breaks work together?

Insulation and thermal breaks work together to enhance heat retention by reducing the transfer of heat across building components. Insulation is designed to slow down the movement of heat, keeping it inside during the colder months and outside during the warmer months. This is achieved through various materials that provide resistance to heat flow, measured as R-value.

Thermal breaks, on the other hand, are materials or barriers placed within or on the surface of walls, roofs, and floors that interrupt the flow of heat through conductive paths. They are typically used in areas where materials with differing thermal properties come together, such as metal framing, which conducts heat much more effectively than insulated spaces.

When insulation and thermal breaks are utilized together, they create a more effective thermal envelope. The insulation slows heat loss, while thermal breaks prevent heat transfer through structural elements that might otherwise bypass the insulation. This synergy is crucial for improving overall energy efficiency in a building, leading to enhanced comfort and reduced energy bills.