What does the term "thermal bridging" refer to?

The term "thermal bridging" refers to the transfer of energy across a building's thermal envelope that can result in significant energy losses. This phenomenon occurs when a material with high thermal conductivity provides a direct path for heat flow, bypassing insulation materials that are meant to restrict this flow. As a result, areas where thermal bridging occurs can lead to increased heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, resulting in higher energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Thermal bridges can be found at junctions between different building materials, such as where rafters meet shear walls, or around window and door frames. Identifying and mitigating thermal bridging is crucial in achieving better energy efficiency in building design and construction.

Understanding this concept is essential for green building practices, as reducing thermal bridging can lead to a more comfortable interior environment and lower energy bills. The focus on thermal bridging aligns with LEED's goal of promoting sustainable, energy-efficient buildings.