What role do thermal breaks play in energy efficiency?

Thermal breaks are materials that reduce the transfer of heat across a thermal bridge, which is an area in a structure that allows heat to flow through more easily than through the surrounding insulating materials. By minimizing heat transfer, thermal breaks play a crucial role in maintaining the desired indoor temperature, thus improving energy efficiency. This reduction in heat transfer helps in lowering the energy required for heating and cooling, contributing to overall energy savings and enhancing the performance of insulation.

In practical terms, thermal breaks can be found in various building components, such as windows, doors, and structural systems, where metal framing is used. Since metals are good conductors of heat, the thermal break interrupts this conduction path and helps reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, promoting a more stable and comfortable indoor environment while also lowering energy costs.